Some basic, important and interesting facts about 'Bharatanatyam':-
- Bharatanatyam is the most popular classical & traditional Indian Dance, evolved in 18th/19th Century.
- The Bharatanatyam dance was performed by maids of God, who served the temple deity, in the ancient temples.
- Bharatanatyam represents the dancer as 'Goddess'.
- Though Bharatanatyam is predominantly preformed by women, men are also known to engage in it.
- It demands unconditional and complete dedication from the dancer performer.
- A good Bharatanatyam Dancer should have essential qualities like Mental Alertness, Steady, Hard Work, Intelligence, Devoted with Singing Ability.
- Bharatanatyam dance-forms are strcutured around some emotions like Happiness, Sorrow, Anger, Compassion, Fear, Courage, Calm and Smile.
- Non-carpeted or Wooden Floor with loose fitting salwar kameez dress is ideal to practice Bharatanatyam.
- Steps are based upon a balanced distribution of body weight and needs elaborate neck and eye movements.
- The position of the feet keeps changing and the knees bent most of the times.
- Prefection in body postures & steps are pre-requisites in Bharatanatyam. The dancer should know when to dance and when to stop.
- Knowledge about carnatic music is essential to learn Bharatanatyam.
- Regular practice and dedication will improve the dance performance.