What is Bharatanatyam?
Bharatanatyam is one of the oldest classical dance forms from South India. It began over two thousand years ago in the temples of Tamil Nadu, where it was performed as a way to honour the divine. Dancers used precise movements, hand gestures (mudras), facial expressions, and rhythm to tell stories—mainly drawn from Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata. The art form was originally passed down through temple dancers known as devadasis.
Tradition and Legacy
In the 20th century, Bharatanatyam moved beyond temple walls and entered public performance spaces. Pioneers like Rukmini Devi Arundale and Balasaraswati played a major role in bringing it to wider audiences, both in India and abroad. Today, it continues to evolve while staying rooted in tradition. Contemporary artists such as Alarmel Valli, Malavika Sarukkai, and Aditi Mangaldas are respected globally for their work in classical Indian dance. Many schools around the world, including in Australia, now teach Bharatanatyam, keeping the tradition alive for new generations of dancers.
Your Bharatanatyam Journey
Foundation & Posture
Begin with the fundamental stance (Araimandi) and basic postures. Learn the importance of alignment, balance, and the spiritual significance of each position. Master the art of grounding yourself while reaching toward the divine.
Adavus - Building Blocks
Progress through the systematic learning of Adavus (basic dance units). Each movement is taught with precision, combining footwork, hand gestures, and rhythmic patterns that form the vocabulary of Bharatanatyam.
Mudras & Expression
Discover the sacred language of hand gestures (Mudras) and facial expressions (Abhinaya). Learn to convey emotions, tell stories, and connect with the divine through subtle yet powerful expressions.
Rhythm & Music
Develop an intimate relationship with Carnatic music and complex rhythmic patterns (Tala). Understand how movement and music unite to create a transcendent artistic experience.
Choreography & Performance
Combine all elements into complete pieces - from pure dance (Nritta) to expressive storytelling (Nritya). Experience the joy of bringing ancient stories to life through your movement.
🏃♀️ Health Benefits That'll Knock Your Socks Off!
💪 Cardiovascular Fitness
Get ready for a ripper workout, mate! Bharatanatyam is a bonzer cardiovascular exercise that'll have you sweating buckets while sculpting your body. You'll develop incredible flexibility, core strength, and posture that'd make a ballet dancer jealous. It's like hitting the gym, but way more fun!
🦴 Bone & Joint Health
The weight-bearing movements strengthen your bones naturally - no need for those boring gym sessions! The controlled movements improve joint flexibility and reduce stiffness. Your physio will be chuffed with your progress!
🧠 Mental Wellness
Fair dinkum, this dance will unlock emotions you didn't even know you had! You'll build confidence that's off the charts and develop stage presence that'll make you the star of any barbie or gathering. It's like therapy, but with killer moves!
⚖️ Balance & Coordination
You'll develop balance that'd make a tightrope walker jealous! The complex movements improve proprioception and coordination - handy for everything from surfing to simply not tripping over the dog!
🧘♀️ Mindfulness & Meditation
This isn't just dance, it's bloody brilliant meditation in motion! You'll find your zen while connecting with traditions older than Uluru. Perfect for busy Aussies who need to slow down and find their centre - no worries about sitting still for hours!
🌏 Cultural Connection
Crikey, you'll become a walking encyclopedia of Indian culture! Perfect for multicultural Australia - you'll understand the stories behind those beautiful Bollywood films and impress your mates with ancient wisdom. It's like a cultural adventure right here in Adelaide!
The Transformation
Physical Transformation
Develop grace, flexibility, strength, and perfect posture. Bharatanatyam sculpts the body while improving coordination and stamina through its demanding yet beautiful movements.
Emotional Expression
Learn to channel and express the full spectrum of human emotions. Develop confidence, stage presence, and the ability to communicate profound feelings through movement.
Spiritual Connection
Experience the meditative aspects of dance. Connect with ancient traditions, develop mindfulness, and discover the spiritual dimension that makes Bharatanatyam a form of moving prayer.
Cultural Appreciation
Gain deep understanding of Indian mythology, philosophy, and cultural heritage. Become a guardian of ancient traditions while making them relevant for contemporary times.
What to Expect in Class
🙏 Opening Ritual (5 mins)
Begin with traditional prayers and warm-up exercises to center the mind and prepare the body for the sacred practice ahead.
💪 Physical Conditioning (15 mins)
Specific exercises to build the strength, flexibility, and stamina required for Bharatanatyam. Focus on core strength and leg conditioning.
🦶 Adavu Practice (20 mins)
Systematic practice of Adavus, footwork patterns, and hand positions. Emphasis on precision, rhythm, and proper execution of movements.
🎭 Expression & Choreography (20 mins)
Work on facial expressions, storytelling through dance, and learning choreographed pieces. This is where the magic happens!
🧘♀️ Cool Down & Reflection (10 mins)
Gentle stretching and meditation to integrate the learning and honor the tradition. Time for questions and personal guidance.