Nattuvanars: The Dance Masters of Bharatanatyam
Bharatanatyam is a beautiful and exciting classical dance from India. It tells stories using hand movements, facial expressions, and graceful steps. While dancers perform on stage, there are special teachers behind the scenes who help them. These teachers are called Nattuvanars, and they have been guiding dancers for hundreds of years!
Who Are the Nattuvanars?
Nattuvanars are expert dance teachers and musicians from Tamil Nadu, India. Long ago, they trained dancers who performed in temples as a way to honor gods. Today, they continue to teach and keep the traditions of Bharatanatyam alive. They play a very important role in making sure that Bharatanatyam is performed the right way.
What Do Nattuvanars Do?
- They Teach Dancers
Nattuvanars train dancers in different parts of Bharatanatyam, such as expressions (Abhinaya), fast footwork (Nritta), and storytelling through dance (Nritya). They make sure dancers move with grace and meaning. - They Keep the Rhythm
A Nattuvanar does something very special called Nattuvangam. This means they clap tiny cymbals and say special dance beats to help the dancer stay in perfect rhythm with the music. - They Create Beautiful Music and Dance Moves
Many Nattuvanars also create new dance routines and songs that dancers perform. Their music is based on Carnatic music, a famous style of music from South India. - They Protect Bharatanatyam’s Traditions
Bharatanatyam was once only performed in temples, but now it is danced on big stages all over the world. Nattuvanars have made sure that the dance still keeps its beauty and meaning even as it has changed over time.
Famous Nattuvanars in History
- The Tanjore Quartet (19th Century) – Four talented brothers named Chinnayya, Ponnayya, Sivanandam, and Vadivelu helped organize Bharatanatyam into the steps and structure dancers follow today.
- Meenakshisundaram Pillai – A great teacher who trained famous dancers like Rukmini Devi Arundale and T. Balasaraswati, who helped bring Bharatanatyam to the modern world.
Nattuvanars Today
Even today, many Bharatanatyam teachers follow in the footsteps of the old Nattuvanars. Dancers also learn Nattuvangam so they can lead performances and keep this wonderful tradition alive.
Conclusion
Nattuvanars are like the silent heroes of Bharatanatyam. They teach, create, and make sure the dance stays as magical as ever. Thanks to them, Bharatanatyam continues to be performed and loved all over the world!
Did you enjoy learning about Nattuvanars? Would you like to try clapping out a dance rhythm like they do?