India is a land rich in cultural diversity. It is a diverse country where we can find a variety of dance, music, cuisine and festivals. Every state of the country is filled with diverse cuisine, music and the most beautiful dances.
Bharatanatyam which is famous in South India is also popular in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka, Kathak from Uttar Pradesh, Kathakali from Kerala, and Oddisi from Orissa are all popular classical dance forms. It is the dance of Navabhavas. Classical dances are the creation of God. Besides, the devotees perform the classical dance to worship God.
Bharatanatyam is the oldest surviving classical dance in India. Bharata Muni’s Natyashastra and Nandikeshwara’s Abhinaya Darpana mention this dance form. It is believed that Brahma revealed Bharatanatyam to Bharat.
Classical dance held a high place in India since ancient times and is said to be the fifth Veda. Brahma composed the Natyaveda by combining four Vedas. lessons from the Rigveda, Abhinaya from the Yajurveda, music from the Samaveda and Rasa from the Atharnaveda. The dance art thus promoted has come to light as various dance forms incorporating the traditions of the respective regions.
There are several types of Bharatanatyam costumes. Bharatanatyam costume is stunning and colourful. In ancient days, dance was performed on special occasions, in royal courts and on festival days in temples. Bharatanatyam was originally performed exclusively by female temple dancers.
