Bharatanatyam for Beginners: 10 Things Every New Dancer Should Know
Bharatanatyam for Beginners: 10 Things Every New Dancer Should Know
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So, you're about to start your journey into the world of Bharatanatyam? Or maybe you’re thinking of enrolling your child into classes and want to know what lies ahead?
Either way, welcome to a beautiful universe of tradition, rhythm, and storytelling. But before you dive in, there are a few things every beginner (and their supportive parents) should know.
Let’s break it down together — in a way that's simple, real, and fun.
1. Bharatanatyam Is a Discipline, Not Just a Hobby
This dance isn’t just a weekend activity. It’s a disciplined art form rooted in structure and tradition. Classes usually begin with warm-ups and basic steps called adavus, followed by hand gestures, body movements, and expressions.
Patience and regular practice are key — because here, progress is earned step by step.
2. Posture Is Everything
The foundation of Bharatanatyam lies in a posture called aramandi — a half-sitting position that may feel a bit tough at first.
But over time, it improves strength, flexibility, balance, and grace. Once you get it right, the whole dance feels more fluid and powerful.
3. Expressions Matter as Much as Steps
Bharatanatyam isn’t just about how you move, but what you express. Through abhinaya (expressions), dancers convey emotions — love, anger, joy, devotion — just with their eyes, eyebrows, lips, and facial muscles.
It’s what makes Bharatanatyam magical and full of soul.
4. Mudras Are the Language of Hands
In Bharatanatyam, hands do the talking too! You’ll learn mudras (hand gestures) that help tell stories — from showing animals to gods to feelings.
It might feel like learning a new language, but once it clicks, your hands will start speaking fluently.
[caption id="" align="aligncenter" width="736"]
bharatanatyam dance classes online-Teks skillhub[/caption]5. Patience Is Your Superpower
You won’t be doing grand performances in the first few weeks — and that’s okay.
Learning Bharatanatyam is like planting a seed. First the roots, then the growth, and finally the bloom. Stay patient, buddy. Your time to shine will come.
6. The Music Will Grow on You
Bharatanatyam is danced to Carnatic classical music — with beautiful ragas and rhythmic beats (tala).
At first, it may feel unfamiliar, but slowly, your ears and body will start recognizing the patterns. That’s when dance and music become one.
7. Costumes and Makeup Are Part of the Performance
When you’re ready for stage, you’ll wear a vibrant costume, jewelry, and expressive makeup.
It’s not just about looking pretty — it helps bring out the character you’re portraying in the dance, whether it’s a god, goddess, or a mythological story.
8. Your Ankles Will Speak
Once you’ve learned your basics, you’ll wear salangai (ankle bells). These aren’t just for show — they highlight your rhythm and bring your steps to life with each beat.
Earning your salangai is a special moment for every dancer!
9. Practice at Home Is a Must
Progress doesn't end at the dance studio. Practicing at home, even for 10–15 minutes daily, makes a huge difference.
It builds muscle memory, improves expression, and shows dedication.
10. You're Joining a Timeless Tradition
Bharatanatyam has been passed down for over 2,000 years. It’s more than just art — it’s culture, spirituality, and storytelling.
By learning it, you become part of a divine tradition that connects you with something bigger than just movement.
Final Thoughts,
Starting Bharatanatyam is one of the most rewarding journeys you (or your child) can take. It teaches:
Self-discipline
Creativity
Confidence
Cultural pride
So don’t worry if your steps aren’t perfect right away. What matters is dancing with heart, soul, and joy.
Because when Bharatanatyam enters your life… it becomes a part of who you are.
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