Bharatanatyam: A Beginner’s Guide

If you’ve ever seen a dancer clad in a bright silk sari, moving with precise hand gestures and rhythmic footwork, you were probably watching Bharatanatyam. It’s the oldest Indian classical dance still performed today, and it comes straight from Tamil Nadu. Below we break down what makes it special and give you practical tips to start learning.

What Makes Bharatanatyam Unique?

Bharatanatyam blends storytelling, music, and geometry. Every pose, called an asana, follows a strict angle, and each hand shape, or mudra, has a defined meaning. The dancer’s eyes and facial expressions, known as abhinaya, bring myths and poems to life.

The rhythm is driven by tala – a cycle of beats counted on the floor with ankle bells ( ghungroos ). A typical performance starts with a Alarippu, a warm‑up that introduces the dancer’s skill, then moves through pieces like Jatiswaram (pure dance) and Varnam (the narrative heart).

Costume matters too. The traditional costume includes a silk sari draped in a specific style, a pleated fan‑shaped skirt, and a gold‑embellished jewelry set. The colors and designs often reflect the story being told.

How to Start Learning Bharatanatyam

First, find a teacher. Look for a certified guru or a reputable dance school that follows the Kalakshetra or Novice style. Many cities have community centers offering beginner classes, and there are online platforms with video lessons if you can’t attend in person.

Begin with basic stretches and footwork. The key is mastering the adavus – the 20 fundamental steps that form the building blocks of every choreography. Practice them slowly, counting the beats out loud until the movement feels natural.

Next, work on hand gestures. Start with simple mudras like Pataka (flag) and Tripataka (three‑flag). Use a mirror or record yourself to check angles. Consistency is more important than speed; repeat each gesture until the shape stays the same every time.

Don’t skip the music. Listening to Carnatic music regularly helps you feel the rhythm. Try tapping your foot to taas while humming the melody. Over time, you’ll be able to match your steps to the beat without looking at a metronome.

Finally, attend a live performance or watch reputable recordings. Seeing how seasoned dancers combine the elements gives you a clear roadmap for your own practice.

Remember, progress in Bharatanatyam is a marathon, not a sprint. Set small weekly goals – like mastering one adavu or perfecting a mudra – and celebrate each milestone. With regular practice, you’ll soon move from basic drills to the expressive storytelling that makes this dance so captivating.