The Universal Language of Bharatanatyam

Bharatanatyam, a classical dance form originating from the temples of Tamil Nadu, has transcended its cultural boundaries to become a global phenomenon. Rooted in universal themes and emotions, Bharatanatyam resonates with people worldwide, regardless of their background. Its codified movements and expressive vocabulary serve as a medium for artists to explore and innovate while staying true to its classical roots.

Growing up in an artistic household where Bharatanatyam was a natural part of daily life, I found myself immersed in its rhythms and movements from an early age. Watching my mother, a renowned Bharatanatyam practitioner, I learned that dedication to dance extended far beyond the stage; it was a commitment woven into every aspect of life. Despite her career in economics, her unwavering commitment to Bharatanatyam taught me to view dance not as a mere hobby but as a lifelong pursuit demanding dedication and passion. Through decades of practice, I've discovered that Bharatanatyam transcends mere artistry—it's a spiritual journey and a constant companion through life's ups and downs. Whether in moments of joy or sorrow, dance has been my anchor, providing a channel to express the depth of human emotion. Its rich vocabulary enables me to navigate life's challenges with meaning and purpose. 

The universality of Bharatanatyam lies in its ability to speak a language beyond words, connecting with the soul on a profound level. It's a calling - a deeply ingrained part of who I am, shaping every decision and aspect of my life. As I've matured in my practice, the physicality of dance has merged seamlessly with its spiritual essence. Through movement, I find stillness; through rhythm, I discover silence. Bharatanatyam has become a source of meditation, a way to connect with something greater than myself.

My journey with Bharatanatyam reflects its transformative power. Beyond cultural boundaries, it speaks to the human experience, offering solace, expression, and a pathway to spirituality. It's a tribute to the enduring beauty and relevance of this timeless art form, capable of resonating with individuals from diverse backgrounds, transcending generations and geographical boundaries. In the past, Bharatanatyam emerged as a sacred art form in the temple towns of Tamil Nadu, where devadasis, young girls devoted to serving the gods through dance, performed it daily as offerings to the deities. However, over time, this ritualistic practice evolved, shifting from temple settings to proscenium stages, captivating audiences from diverse cultural backgrounds. Rooted in the Navarasas—the nine basic human emotions—Bharatanatyam compositions depict themes such as love, anger, compassion, and laughter, which resonate with audiences on a deeply human level. Whether portraying mythological narratives or contemporary themes, the dance form's classical vocabulary of movement, facial expressions, and hand gestures—collectively known as abhinaya—serves as a universal language of expression.

People from different cultures enjoy Bharatanatyam performances because the dance tells stories everyone can understand, even if they belong to different cultural backgrounds. For instance, when a mother watches a dancer play Yashoda with Krishna, she feels a connection because it reminds her of her own experiences as a mother, no matter where she's from. Likewise, Bharatanatyam's themes of love, longing, and happiness are easy for everyone to relate to, bringing people together emotionally, no matter their background.

Bharatanatyam, while rooted in tradition, also allows for creativity and new ideas. Dancers can take old stories and give them a modern twist, keeping the dance fresh and meaningful for today's audiences while still honouring its classical roots. Whether it's performed in Tamil, Telugu, or any other language, Bharatanatyam touches people's hearts with its emotional stories and beautiful movements. It brings people together, creating a bond that spans generations and borders. I recall a significant moment when my mother and my guru conducted workshops on Thirukkural, an ancient Tamil text, at a theatre organisation in Paris. Despite the linguistic differences between the audience and the text, a translator adeptly conveyed the essence from English to French, highlighting Bharatanatyam's ability to transcend cultural barriers through its profound emotional expression.

Over my 35 years of expansive career as a dancer and performing in different parts of the world, I have realised that understanding your audience is the key to a successful dance performance. Dancers must delicately balance complexity and accessibility, ensuring a meaningful experience for all, whether they are seasoned enthusiasts or first-time spectators. 

Through emotive storytelling and a versatile vocabulary of movements, Bharatanatyam captivates audiences across continents, drawing them into a rich tapestry of themes and emotions.  In my experience performing internationally, particularly in countries like Spain, Paris, and the US, I've noticed a distinct preference among non-Indian audiences for traditional compositions. Unlike in India, where performances may be tailored to suit shorter attention spans, international audiences appreciate the authenticity of unhurried, slow, and longer compositions. They seek out the genuine essence of the art form, craving a deeper connection to its rich cultural heritage. This global prominence owes much to the dedication of esteemed artists who have propelled Bharatanatyam onto the world stage while preserving its classical essence. Their commitment to exploring contemporary themes within the framework of tradition resonates deeply with audiences worldwide, leading Bharatanatyam to feature prominently in prestigious international dance festivals, captivating audiences with its beauty and cultural significance.

 Bharatanatyam remains relevant in the modern world by blending traditional techniques with contemporary narratives. Through this fusion, Bharatanatyam continues to captivate audiences and foster a deep appreciation for Indian classical dance on the global stage. In India, the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) stands as a beacon for fostering cultural exchanges, extending beyond dance to encompass music, theatre, and a myriad of artistic expressions. It serves as a medium for showcasing India's rich cultural tapestry to the world. Indian classical dance, particularly Bharatanatyam, serves as a profound representation of this cultural wealth. Through its intricate movements and emotive storytelling, Bharatanatyam embodies the essence of Indian spirituality, mythology, and cultural ethos.

Across the expanse of India, classical dance styles such as Odissi, Kathak, Mohiniyattam, and Manipuri, each originating from distinct regions, offer a glimpse into the rich heritage and diversity of the country. For instance, Odissi, hailing from the state of Odisha, mesmerises audiences with its fluid movements inspired by temple sculptures and the rhythms of Odissi music. Similarly, Kathak, rooted in North India, weaves together elements of storytelling, rhythmic footwork, and intricate hand gestures to narrate tales from Indian mythology and folklore. Mohiniyattam, the graceful dance form of Kerala, embodies the languid movements of a celestial enchantress, captivating audiences with its fluidity and grace. With such Diverse art forms spanning across India, one cannot overlook the role of organisations like the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR) in facilitating cultural exchanges and promoting Indian classical arts on the global stage. Through collaborative initiatives and cultural diplomacy, these organisations bring Indian artists to international platforms, enabling them to showcase the timeless beauty and cultural significance of Bharatanatyam and other classical dance forms.

Beyond the realm of performance, Indian classical dance serves as a cultural ambassador, fostering cross-cultural dialogue and mutual understanding. Whether it's a Bharatanatyam performance in Paris or a Kathak recital in New York, these artistic expressions connect diverse cultures and foster a deeper appreciation for India's rich heritage. As artists continue to enthral audiences worldwide with their mesmerising performances, Bharatanatyam and other classical dance forms serve as powerful symbols of India's cultural resilience and artistic excellence, resonating with audiences across the globe and leaving an indelible mark on the global cultural landscape. Through Bharatanatyam, India extends an invitation to the world, inviting audiences to immerse themselves in its rich tapestry of tradition and innovation.

Due to such global prominence, future generations must carry forward this legacy that their predecessors have built through decades of hard work.  Teaching Bharatanatyam is not just about imparting dance moves; it's about passing on a legacy, a tradition handed down by our gurus. However, today's learners face a vastly different environment from ours. They're inundated with distractions and pressured to get things right. This mindset is antithetical to the essence of dance, which is about exploration and expression rather than rigid correctness. As a teacher, I often encounter hesitancy among students to express themselves freely, a symptom of a society that views everything in black and white, right or wrong. Organisations like Spic Macay have been instrumental in exposing youth to classical arts, igniting a passion that may lie dormant until awakened by a captivating performance. Yet, inspiration alone is not enough. Parents must instil a deep appreciation for the arts in their children, fostering a love that transcends fleeting interests. Dance, when approached with dedication and sincerity, becomes more than just a hobby—it becomes a source of solace and strength, a constant companion through life's trials and tribulations. Ultimately, dance is not just about mastering choreography; it's about embracing individuality, nurturing creativity, and cultivating resilience. It's about teaching young minds to find their rhythm amidst life's chaos, to dance with passion and purpose, and to cherish the journey as much as the destination.