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Bharatanatyam: The Art of Abhinaya and Nritta

byDivya HoskerePerforms across Bengaluru and IndiaStarts from65,000 per performanceView full gallery

Every performance I offer is a balance between Abhinaya, the art of emotional expression, and Nritta, the energetic precision of pure dance. I invite you to explore the rhythm and stories that form my dance path.

This is an 'allaripu of twirls', a piece focusing on the pure dance aspect of Bharatanatyam. It showcases the importance of control, speed, and using the entire body to create beautiful patterns in space.

Abhinaya is about telling stories through expression. Here, the nayika (heroine) describes to her friend how Krishna romantically compares her features to a lotus, a beautiful example of 'shringara' rasa.

This 'jati' or rhythmic sequence feels like a perfect flight, with a wonderful take-off and landing. It's a great example of the architectural quality of nritta, sculpted beautifully by my guru.

The Brindavani Thillana is a classic piece that stands the test of time. It is pure joy to perform, filled with complex rhythms and graceful movements that celebrate the spirit of dance itself.

An excerpt from the Varnam 'Shringara Chaturane'. A varnam is a centerpiece in a Bharatanatyam recital that perfectly balances expressive abhinaya with intricate nritta, testing the dancer's stamina and artistry.

This piece describes the 'viraha' or longing of Radha. Her friend tells Krishna how Radha meditates on him and sees him everywhere. This is a deep exploration of emotion through abhinaya.

About The Art of Abhinaya & Nritta

When you watch me perform, you aren't just seeing steps. You are seeing a dialogue between the music and my body. Whether I am exploring the deep longing of 'viraha' in a padam or executing complex, rhythmic jatis, my focus is always on clarity—making sure the emotions land just as powerfully as the footwork. Every movement is shaped by the lessons from my guru, Sri P. Praveen Kumar, ensuring that the rhythm and the storytelling move in perfect harmony.

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