Question

Which of the following statements correctly describes Bharatanatyam?

• A. Bharatanatyam was originally performed only by men, and it does not include the use of hand gestures (mudras).
• B. Bharatanatyam incorporates both Tandava and Lasya, places emphasis on mudras, and has evolved from the Devadasi system, with music provided by instruments like veena and flute.
• C. Bharatanatyam is a modern dance form created in the 20th century, performed only by couples, and does not involve any religious or devotional themes.
• D. The Abhinaya Darpana is irrelevant to Bharatanatyam, and its poses do not appear in religious temple carvings.

Answer 1

Answer:

B. Bharatanatyam incorporates both Tandava and Lasya, places emphasis on mudras, and has evolved from the Devadasi system, with music provided by instruments like veena and flute.

Bharatanatyam Originally a solo dance form, Bharatanatyam was traditionally performed by female dancers. However, in modern times, it is also practiced by couples. Believed to have evolved from the Devadasi system, its movements resemble the flickering of a flame, embodying elements of fire. This dance form incorporates both fundamental aspects: Tandava (symbolizing strength and vigor) and Lasya (representing grace and expressiveness). Bharatanatyam places strong emphasis on hand gestures (mudras) to convey emotions, with a single dancer often portraying multiple roles. Iconic Bharatanatyam poses can be seen carved on the Gopurams of the Chidambaram temple. The accompanying music typically features a vocalist, veena, flute, and cymbals. One of the key texts for understanding the technique and grammar of Bharatanatyam’s body movements is the Abhinaya Darpana by Nandikesvara.