Bharatanatyam

Bharatanatyam is a classical dance that originated in South India. The word 'Bharatanatyam' is derived from the concepts of Bhava, Raga and Tala, and is based on 'Adavu' (steps) and 'Hasthamudra' (hand gestures). The music for Bharatanatyam is based on Carnatic classical music. Practising this graceful and expressive art form improves balance, concentration and general fitness. We provide classes in the kalakshetra style of bharatanatyam.

Kalakshetra foundation, was established (1936) by Rukmini Devi Arundale in Chennai, India. The Kalakshetra style is noted for its angular, straight, ballet-like kinesthetics, and its avoidance of the uninhibited throw (Ksepa) of the limbs. Though the style has the authentic devdasi style of ancient times, it still has relatively recent introductions. It mainly focus of Angika (hand movements). The hand movements are delicately based on the lyrics and placing the hand in an exact position even during narration. It is the most beautiful of all styles of bharatnatyam.

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Carnatic music

Carnatic music

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Carnatic music originated from the south of India and emphasis mainly on vocal. The basic elements forming the foundation for improvisation are sruti (musical pitch), swara (sound of a single note), raga (melodic formulae) and tala (rhythmic cycles). Carnatic music is usually learned through compositions of important composers.

Carnatic music is traditionally taught according to the system formulated by Purandara Dasa. This involves varisais (graded exercises), alankaras (exercises based on the seven talas), geetams or simple songs, and Swarajatis. After the student has reached a certain standard, varnams are taught and later, the student learns kritis. The learning texts and exercises are more or less uniform across all the South Indian states. The learning structure is arranged in increasing order of complexity.