The Sacred Art of Bharatanatyam: Ancient Temple Dance Traditions & Modern Practice

Discover the profound world of Bharatanatyam with master dancer Sachika Almeida Sharma in this comprehensive exploration of India's most sacred classical dance form. From ancient temple traditions to modern practice, learn about the spiritual dimensions, intricate techniques, and rich cultural heritage of this timeless art.

🕉️ What You'll Learn:
The sacred origins of Bharatanatyam in South Indian temples
Hand gestures (mudras) and their spiritual significance
The guru-shishya tradition and proper dance etiquette
Costume, jewelry, and makeup traditions
Differences between classical dance forms
Career opportunities in classical arts
Preserving tradition in the modern world

Sachika Almeida Sharma brings decades of expertise as a master practitioner, sharing insights into the devotional aspects, technical mastery, and cultural preservation of this ancient art form. Whether you're a beginner or experienced practitioner, this talk offers valuable wisdom for understanding Bharatanatyam's spiritual and artistic dimensions.

🎭 Topics Covered: Classical dance history, temple traditions, spiritual practice, Indian culture, traditional arts, dance education, cultural preservation, South Indian heritage


Bharatnayam is poetry in motion. Originated in TamilNadu, it was initially known as sadir(Daasi) attam or the dance of the Devadasis. It has a blend of three components Bhavam, Ragam & Taalam. It was practised in Temples and it fell into disrepute. The form was given a fresh breath of life by Rukmani Devi Arundale.

About the Speaker:
Sachika Almeida Sharma is MA in Bharatnatyam (Pune University)
Heads dance school 'Nritya Sankul'. Has 30 years of teaching & performing experience. She is a Dance movement Facilitator for special children and Meditation Coach.

Timestamped Chapters:

00:00 Introduction and Opening Demonstration
02:07 The Significance of Guru and Namaskar Ritual
03:46 Origins and History of Bharatanatyam
06:32 Revival by Rukmini Devi and Modern Codification
08:28 The Language of Gestures and Hand Mudras
09:50 The Sacred Shloka: Hand, Eye, Mind, Expression
12:00 Bharatanatyam as Spiritual Practice Beyond Body
15:00 Hand Gestures and Their Multiple Meanings
18:13 The Three Pillars: Bhavam, Ragam, Talam
24:07 Traditional Costume and Jewelry Significance
33:00 Krishna Ni Vegani Maru: Devotional Expression Demo
36:47 Addressing Fusion and Cultural Preservation
43:24 Comparing Classical Dance Forms
46:48 Differences Between Regional Dance Styles
52:00 Career Opportunities in Classical Dance
55:30 Online Learning and Modern Challenges


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