Bharatanatyam: The Art of Abhinaya and Nritta
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 this collection
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.
Bharatanatyam is a complete language, and I treat it as such. At the heart of my work is the constant negotiation between two poles: Abhinaya and Nritta.
The Emotional Core: Abhinaya
Abhinaya is how I connect. It is the art of telling a story without words. Whether I am portraying the devotion of Meerabai or the romantic longing of Radha for Krishna, I rely on subtle facial expressions and hand gestures to bring ancient texts to life. My training in the Natyashastra guides how I use these emotions to make sure the audience feels what the character feels, turning a performance into a shared experience.
The Architectural Precision: Nritta
Nritta is the joyous side of the dance. It is pure movement—the intricate footwork, the geometric patterns, and the rhythm that defines Bharatanatyam. As I like to say, it is like sculpting with the body. When I perform a Thillana or a complex Jati, I am looking for that perfect 'take-off and landing.' It requires a deep understanding of rhythm and 'azhutham' (groundedness) to execute these sequences with the control and speed they deserve.
The Role of Live Music
I do not perform to pre-recorded tracks. The energy of a live orchestra—Nattuvangam, vocal, Mridangam, and melody instruments—is essential. It allows for spontaneity. If a moment on stage feels particularly electric, the music follows. This is where the 'maja' happens. It is real, it is unscripted, and it keeps the art form alive and breathing for every single performance.
Divya Hoskere
I’m Divya Hoskere. For me, the stage is a sacred path where I explore the Natyashastra, chase karanas, and find art in everyday life. My dance is my offering, blending the rhythmic precision taught by my guru, Sri P. Praveen Kumar, with the stories I grew up hearing from my mother.
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