Discovering the Different Styles of Bharatanatyam

Have you ever watched someone dance with graceful hand movements, strong steps, and beautiful expressions? If you have, you might have seen Bharatanatyam—a very old and special dance from South India. It tells stories using your whole body—eyes, hands, feet, and even facial expressions!

Just like people have different ways of talking or writing, Bharatanatyam also has different styles, or banis. These styles come from different teachers and places. Let’s take a fun journey and explore the five main styles of Bharatanatyam!

🌟 1. Pandanallur Style – The Neat and Steady One


This style loves straight lines and strong steps. Dancers take their time and move very carefully, like artists drawing with perfect lines.


  • Movements are slow and steady
  • The expressions are soft and serious
  • Great for dancers who like being calm and focused

🌟 2. Kalakshetra Style – The Elegant and Simple One

 

This style was created by a kind lady named Rukmini Devi.
It looks neat and graceful—like watching a beautiful painting come to life!

 

 

  • Movements
    are smooth and look like patterns
  • It’s
    very neat, clean, and elegant
  • Great
    for learning in schools and groups

🌟 3. Vazhuvoor Style – The Dramatic and Fun One

 

This style is full of energy and expression! It’s like watching a dancer become a character in a play.

 

 

  • Movements are flowing and full of life
  • The dancer uses big facial expressions
  • Great for kids who love acting and telling stories with dance

🌟 4. Melattur Style – The Storyteller

 

This style loves to tell long stories with fun rhythm. Dancers sometimes act like different gods or animals!

 

 

  • Fast and fun rhythms
  • Very expressive and animated
  • Great for kids who enjoy being playful and creative

🌟 5. Thanjavur Style – The Classic Combo

 

This is the “grandparent” style that helped create many
others! It’s a perfect mix of movements and expressions.

 

 

  • Balanced
    dancing and acting
  • Very
    traditional and respectful
  • Great
    for learning the basics of Bharatanatyam

Which Style Is for You?

All these styles are beautiful in their own way. Some are soft and peaceful, others are lively and bold. No matter which one you like, Bharatanatyam helps you:

  • Tell stories without words
  • Stay strong and flexible
  • Feel confident and connected to culture

 

So, which style do you like best? Would you rather dance slowly and gracefully, or act out stories with big expressions? Try a few and find out!

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