Bharatanatyam, one of the oldest and most revered classical dance forms in the world, has endured a journey filled with cultural transformation, suppression, and revival. With its origins in the temples of Tamil Nadu over 2,000 years ago, this art form has not only stood the test of time but also navigated the turbulent waters of colonization and cultural suppression. Through its resilience, Bharatnatyam has evolved into a global symbol of India's artistic heritage.
The Origins of Bharatanatyam
The roots of Bharatanatyam can be traced back to ancient India, where it was practiced as a form of worship and storytelling in temples. Initially known as Sadir, it was performed by temple dancers known as Devadasis, young girls dedicated to serving in temples through music, dance, and other religious practices. The dance was considered a sacred offering to the deities, and its primary purpose was to convey religious themes and narratives, drawn mainly from Hindu mythology.
The classical dance form is characterized by intricate footwork, graceful movements, rhythmic gestures, and expressive facial expressions. It blends various elements—Nritta (pure dance), Nritya (expressive dance), and Natya (dramatic performance)—to tell a story, often related to themes of devotion, mythology, and the human experience.
Colonial Suppression: The Ban on Bharatnatyam
During the British colonial era in India, Bharatnatyam found itself in the crosshairs of cultural suppression. The British colonialists sought to impose their Western norms and values on the Indian subcontinent, viewing Indian culture—particularly religious and traditional practices—as primitive and uncivilized. Along with this, they targeted the practice of classical dance forms such as Bharatanatyam, which they viewed as inappropriate and indecent.
The colonial administration, supported by missionary groups, labeled the Devadasis’ performances as immoral. The British not only sought to curb the practice of dance but also criminalized it. They associated it with vice, using the excuse that the dancers were involved in illicit activities, as many of them were involved in temple service, which had often been misconstrued. The imperial powers sought to impose Western standards on Indian society, believing that such traditional art forms encouraged debauchery, rather than appreciating them as sacred cultural expressions.
Consequently, the British banned the public performances of Bharatanatyam and other classical dance forms during the 19th century. This resulted in the collapse of the formalized performance culture around this dance style. The once-popular temple dancers were stigmatized, and many dance schools closed down.
The Secret Survival: Preserving Bharatnatyam
While the colonial regime worked hard to extinguish the practice of Bharatnatyam, the art form did not die. Instead, it survived in secret, maintained by a small but determined group of individuals who continued to pass down the tradition of Bharatnatyam through the generations. The dancers, who once performed in temples, moved their practice into the confines of their homes and private spaces, often continuing to teach young girls and women in secret.
The dance form's preservation was largely reliant on the temple dancers, often ostracized by society for their profession, who were determined to keep the tradition alive despite the colonial restrictions. These women, often marginalized and disregarded by mainstream society, found solace and purpose in their craft, holding on to the rich cultural heritage passed down from their ancestors.
Though public performances were banned, the dance’s spiritual and artistic essence endured in the shadows of Indian temples and families. The dancers quietly continued to perform during festivals and in private settings, passing their knowledge to a new generation who would later be instrumental in the revival of the dance form.
The Revival: A New Beginning
The revival of Bharatanatyam began in the early 20th century, at a time when India was fighting for its independence from colonial rule. The end of British colonialism and the rise of nationalist movements gave birth to a new desire for cultural self-expression and a rediscovery of India’s rich heritage.
One of the most notable figures in the revival of Bharatanatyam was Rukmini Devi Arundale, a visionary dancer and the founder of the Kalakshetra Foundation in Chennai in 1936. She was deeply committed to reviving and modernizing Bharatanatyam, stripping away the negative associations that had been imposed during the colonial period. She sought to present the dance as a noble art form, worthy of respect, and aligned with India’s ancient traditions. Rukmini Devi’s contribution to the revival of Bharatanatyam cannot be overstated, as she not only restored the tradition but also transformed it into a refined and respected cultural practice.
Another key figure in the revival was E. Krishna Iyer, a renowned scholar and cultural activist. He worked tirelessly to re-establish Bharatanatyam as a symbol of Indian pride. Together with Rukmini Devi, they helped create a new social and cultural context for Bharatanatyam—one that removed the stigma associated with its history while embracing its religious and artistic significance.
As a result of these efforts, Bharatanatyam was reintroduced to the public stage in the mid-20th century. The dance form was no longer confined to temple walls or private performances; it was now performed in cultural institutions, theaters, and concert halls across India.
The Modern Era: Bharatnatyam on the Global Stage
Today, Bharatanatyam has grown beyond its roots in Tamil Nadu to become a global dance form. It is performed and studied by artists around the world, including in the United States, Europe, and beyond. The dance form’s universal appeal lies in its combination of grace, discipline, and emotional depth, which continues to captivate audiences.
Contemporary dancers have integrated new elements into Bharatanatyam, blending it with other dance forms, while maintaining its classical purity. The fusion of Bharatnatyam with modern music and technology has also made it more accessible to younger audiences, enabling the dance to evolve without losing its cultural roots.
Bharatanatyam’s journey from being banned by colonial authorities to becoming a revered global art form reflects not only the resilience of the dance but also the persistence of the Indian spirit in the face of adversity. It stands as a symbol of India’s cultural survival and revival, illustrating the importance of preserving tradition while embracing change.
Bharatanatyam’s story is one of survival, resilience, and revival. From being nearly lost to the shadows during the British colonization to being reinvigorated by passionate visionaries in the 20th century, Bharatanatyam has risen again as a vibrant, respected art form. It is a testament to the importance of cultural preservation and the ability of art to transcend time and political upheaval.
Through the continued practice and appreciation of Bharatanatyam, we honor the many dancers, teachers, and cultural activists who have kept this ancient dance alive. The art form not only celebrates India’s rich heritage but also serves as a beacon of resilience and the enduring power of the human spirit in the face of adversity.
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