Consider the following statements regarding Bharatanatyam.1. The Orig...
- Bharatnatyam: Oldest among all classical dance forms, Bharatnatyam derives its name from Bharata Muni and 'Natyam' which means dance in Tamil.
- However, other scholars have ascribed the name 'Bharata' to 'Bhava', 'Raga' and 'Taal'.
- This dance form's origins can be traced back to 'Sadir' – the solo dance performance of the temple dancers or 'devadasis' in Tamil Nadu, hence it was also referred to as 'Dashiattam'.
- With the decline of the Devadasi system, the art too became nearly extinct. However, the efforts of E. Krishna Iyer, a prominent freedom fighter, revived this dance form.
- Previously, this dance form was performed by solo female dancers; it has since become increasingly popular among male and group artists as well. Rukmini Devi Arundale, another famous proponent of Bharatnatyam, is remembered for giving global recognition to the dance.
Consider the following statements regarding Bharatanatyam.1. The Orig...
Bharatanatyam is a classical dance form that originated in the southern state of Tamil Nadu in India. It is one of the oldest and most popular forms of Indian classical dance. Let's analyze the given statements:
1. The Origins of this dance can be traced back to the solo performance of Temple dancers in Kerala:
This statement is incorrect. The origins of Bharatanatyam can be traced back to the temples of Tamil Nadu, not Kerala. It was initially performed by temple dancers known as devadasis, who were dedicated to serving the deities in the temple through music and dance. The dance form evolved over centuries and became a highly respected art form performed on stage.
2. Balasaraswati and Ragini Devi revived this dance form:
This statement is also incorrect. Balasaraswati and Ragini Devi were influential figures in the promotion and popularization of Bharatanatyam, but they did not "revive" the dance form. Bharatanatyam faced a decline during the colonial era, as it was stigmatized and suppressed by British authorities due to its association with the devadasi system. However, it continued to be performed in temples and by a few traditional families. It was in the early 20th century that efforts were made to revive and reestablish Bharatanatyam as a classical dance form. Rukmini Devi Arundale, a prominent dancer and theosophist, played a significant role in this revival by removing the association of Bharatanatyam with the devadasi system and bringing it to the stage. Balasaraswati and Ragini Devi, along with several other dancers and scholars, contributed to the popularization and preservation of Bharatanatyam through their performances, teachings, and writings.
In conclusion, neither of the given statements is correct. The origins of Bharatanatyam can be traced back to Tamil Nadu, not Kerala, and Balasaraswati and Ragini Devi were important figures in the promotion of Bharatanatyam, but they did not revive the dance form.