What You Will Learn

This course covers Bharatanatyam in the Kalakshetra style, progressing from foundational techniques to advanced repertoire and performance elements. Students will learn both practical dance training and essential theoretical concepts related to Bharatanatyam.

Learn the fundamentals of Bharatanatyam

• Understand basic posture, body alignment, and movement techniques

• Practice foundational Adavus (basic dance steps)

• Develop coordination, balance, and rhythmic movement

• Learn correct execution of footwork and hand movements

Master Bharatanatyam techniques

• Learn Hastas (hand gestures) and their meanings

• Practice eye movements, neck movements, and body coordination

• Understand rhythm and timing in dance performance

• Develop precision in movement and expression

Study Abhinaya and expressive dance

• Learn facial expressions and emotional portrayal

• Understand the use of gestures in storytelling

• Practice conveying meaning through movement and expression

• Explore the relationship between music, rhythm, and expression

Understand Bharatanatyam theory

• Learn the history and evolution of Bharatanatyam

• Study the basics of the Natyashastra

• Understand the Navarasas (nine emotions)

• Learn Tala (rhythmic cycles) and rhythm structures

• Become familiar with Bharatanatyam terminology and concepts

Learn the traditional Bharatanatyam repertoire

• Study Shlokam and its presentation

• Learn Pushpanjali as an invocatory dance piece

• Practice Alarippu and its rhythmic patterns

• Perform Jatiswaram with focus on pure dance movements

• Learn Shabdam and expressive storytelling elements

• Study Keerthanam and Varnam in greater detail

• Practice Padam with emphasis on Abhinaya

• Learn Thillana with advanced rhythmic sequences

• Conclude with Mangalam as the traditional ending piece

Develop performance skills

• Understand stage presentation techniques

• Learn how different repertoire items are performed

• Practice combining rhythm, technique, and expression

• Build a structured understanding of classical dance performance

The course progresses from basic Adavus and dance techniques to advanced repertoire, Abhinaya, Tala, and Bharatanatyam theory, providing a comprehensive foundation in the Kalakshetra style of Bharatanatyam.