Understanding the Art of Bharatanatyam
Bharatanatyam is a profound language of rhythm, expression, and storytelling. In these snippets, I break down the core concepts of this classical art form—from the intricate mathematical precision of a Jathi to the emotive depth of Abhinaya.
Here I am reciting a "Jathi," which is a complex sequence of rhythmic syllables. These patterns form the backbone of the pure dance or 'nritta' segments in Bharatanatyam, providing a structure for intricate footwork.
Bharatanatyam is filled with beautiful similes. In this clip, I demonstrate the concept of "hair like a river," where the fluid movement of the head and body evokes the grace of a flowing river.
A fun exploration of the 'Navarasas' or nine emotions with my fellow dancers. Each rasa, from Shringara (love) to Raudra (anger), is a fundamental tool for storytelling and expression in Indian classical dance.
Here, I am reimagining a Jathi I first learned during my training at the renowned Kalakshetra foundation. It's a joy to revisit these foundational rhythmic compositions and give them my own interpretation.
About The Art of Bharatanatyam: Educational Snippets
When I teach or perform, my primary focus is on deconstructing the complexity of the dance for my audience and students. Whether it is explaining the rhythmic pulse of a Jathi or the subtle facial shift required for a specific Navarasa, I believe that understanding the 'why' behind a movement makes the art form truly accessible. If you are looking to learn or hire for a production, this is how we make classical dance speak to everyone.
The Grammar of Bharatanatyam
Bharatanatyam is often described as a visual poem, but it is built upon a rigid, scientific foundation. As a student of Kalakshetra, I learned that the beauty of the dance lies in the mastery of its grammar.
Jathis: The Rhythmic Backbone Jathis are complex rhythmic sequences that form the pure dance or nritta segments of a performance. When I recite or perform these, I am mapping out a mathematical structure. For beginners, learning to synchronize these syllables with precise footwork is the first step toward discipline and body control.
Abhinaya: The Art of Expression Abhinaya is where the dance becomes a conversation. Through my work, I emphasize that every gesture, from a simple look to a complex mudra, serves to tell a story. It is not about perfect lines alone; it is about communicating an emotion—be it devotion, anger, or tranquility—to the person sitting in the last row.
The Navarasas I frequently use the Navarasas (the nine fundamental emotions) as a tool to teach my students how to emote. Understanding these nine states of mind—Shringara (love), Hasya (joy), Karuna (compassion), Raudra (anger), Veera (courage), Bhayanaka (fear), Bibhatsa (disgust), Adbhuta (wonder), and Shanta (peace)—allows a dancer to move beyond just steps and into the realm of true performance art.
My Approach to Learning
Whether you are an adult beginner or a parent looking for classes for your child in Delhi, my approach remains the same: dance should be a source of shanti (peace). My classes are designed to be therapeutic, focusing on the mental and physical benefits of the art form rather than just technical rote learning. If you have been curious about how these ancient techniques translate to modern stages, let us start a conversation.
Shreyasi Gopinath
My name is Shreyasi Gopinath. Having trained at the Kalakshetra Foundation, I view Bharatanatyam as a living language that should spark joy rather than just discipline. I love translating the complex grammar of this dance form into stories that everyone can connect with.
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