Bharatanatyam dance form is associated with: 

Key Points

• Bharatanatyam is a classical dance form that originated in Tamil Nadu.
• It is one of the oldest dance forms in India, known for its fixed upper torso, bent legs, and intricate footwork combined with expressive hand gestures and facial expressions.
• The dance form was traditionally performed in temples as a part of religious rituals but has since evolved to be performed on stages worldwide.
• Bharatanatyam is often accompanied by Carnatic music and involves a rich tradition of storytelling through dance.

Additional Information

• The dance form is believed to have been documented as far back as 2,000 years ago in ancient texts such as the Natya Shastra.
• It was revived and popularized in the 20th century by pioneers like Rukmini Devi Arundale, who redefined and presented it in a modern context.
• Bharatanatyam is characterized by its deep narrative nature, often depicting themes from Hindu mythology.
• It involves three main elements: Nritta (pure dance), Nritya (expressive dance), and Natya (dramatic dance).
• Today, Bharatanatyam is not just a cultural symbol of Tamil Nadu but also a significant part of India's cultural heritage.