**Bharatanatyam is a dance form of which state?**
Verified**Explanation:**
Bharatanatyam is one of India's most celebrated classical dance forms and originates from the beautiful state of Tamil Nadu. This ancient dance style has its roots deeply embedded in the temples and cultural traditions of South India, particularly flourishing in the Tamil-speaking regions.
The name "Bharatanatyam" itself comes from combining four essential elements: "Bha" from Bhava (expression), "Ra" from Raga (melody), "Ta" from Tala (rhythm), and "Natyam" meaning dance. This beautiful combination represents the complete art form that encompasses storytelling, music, rhythm, and graceful movements.
Historically, Bharatanatyam was performed by devadasis (temple dancers) in the sacred temples of Tamil Nadu, where it served as a form of worship and devotion to the deities. The dance form was particularly prominent in temples dedicated to Lord Shiva, where dancers would perform intricate movements and expressions to narrate stories from Hindu mythology and scriptures.
The dance form is characterized by its distinctive features including precise geometric movements, expressive hand gestures called mudras, striking facial expressions, and elaborate costumes. Dancers wear traditional silk sarees, heavy jewelry, and ankle bells that create rhythmic sounds with every movement, adding to the overall aesthetic appeal of the performance.
During the colonial period, Bharatanatyam faced challenges and was nearly lost, but thanks to dedicated artists and cultural revivalists like Rukmini Devi Arundale, this magnificent art form was preserved and brought back to mainstream culture. Today, it is not only practiced throughout Tamil Nadu but has gained international recognition and is performed worldwide.
Tamil Nadu continues to be the epicenter of Bharatanatyam, with numerous dance schools, festivals, and cultural centers dedicated to teaching and promoting this classical art form. The state hosts several prestigious dance festivals where both established and emerging artists showcase their talent, keeping the rich tradition alive for future generations.
