A Dance from the Gods

A long time ago, people believed that dance was a gift from the gods. According to a famous old book called the Natya Shastra, Lord Brahma, the creator, taught this dance to a great sage named Bharata. That’s how Bharatanatyam got its name! At first, this dance was performed in temples as a way to pray to the gods. Today, people still use Bharatanatyam to tell stories from Indian mythology in a graceful and beautiful way.

Shiva – The Dancing God

One of the most famous gods in Bharatanatyam is Lord Shiva. He is known as Nataraja, the king of dance. In many performances, dancers show his special dance called the Tandava, which is strong, powerful, and full of energy. This dance is believed to keep the universe moving—just like how a spinning top never stops!

Krishna – The Playful God

Have you heard of Lord Krishna? He is famous for playing the flute, stealing butter, and making people smile. In Bharatanatyam, dancers often act out Krishna’s fun and loving nature. One popular dance shows Krishna dancing with his friends, the gopis, by the river under the moonlight. Another dance tells the story of how little Krishna playfully stole butter from his mother’s kitchen!

The Goddess Who Fights Evil

Bharatanatyam also tells stories of powerful goddesses like Durga and Lakshmi. Goddess Durga is a warrior who fights demons and protects people. In one famous dance, dancers show how Durga defeated a fierce demon called Mahishasura. When the dancer moves her hands and stomps her feet with strength, it feels like Durga herself is in front of you!

The Story of Rama

Have you heard of the Ramayana? It’s an old story about a brave prince named Rama who fought a ten-headed demon king, Ravana, to rescue his wife, Sita. Bharatanatyam dancers bring this story to life by showing Rama’s bravery, Hanuman’s cleverness, and Sita’s kindness—all through their movements and expressions.

A Dance Full of Magic

Bharatanatyam is not just any dance—it is like storytelling with your whole body! Dancers use mudras (hand signs) to show things like a deer, a bird, or even the sun. Their faces show happiness, sadness, anger, and love, just like in a real storybook. Every time they step, twirl, or jump, they make you feel like you are part of the story too!

Why Is Bharatanatyam Special?

Bharatanatyam is more than just a dance—it is a way to remember and celebrate the amazing stories of gods and goddesses. When a dancer performs, it’s like bringing ancient legends to life. So, the next time you see a Bharatanatyam performance, watch closely. You might just see Lord Krishna playing his flute, Goddess Durga fighting evil, or Lord Shiva dancing the universe into motion!

Would you like to try some of the dance moves yourself? Maybe you can tell a story using just your hands and expressions—just like a Bharatanatyam dancer!