About Bharatanatyam
Bharatanatyam has a history going back to 2000 years. It is taught according to the guidelines established in a book on the science of Bharatanatyam - Natyasastra - that was written by Sage Bharatha. It is the most popular of the Indian classical dance forms in South India. The origins of this art form can be traced back to ancient Sanskrit literature and Temple sculptures; many of the ancient sculptures in Hindu temples are based on Bharatanatyam dance poses.
It is said that Bharatanatyam was originally derived from the four Vedas (the great ancient scriptures of Hinduism). Bharatanatyam, as the name depicts, is a blend of BHA - Bhava (Expression), RA - Raga (Melody), TA - Tala (Rhythm). Its foundational techniques also include Natya (a dramatic art of storytelling or mime), Nritya (a combination of body movements and expression) and Nritta (pure dance movements). The interpretation of Hindu mythology in Bharatanatyam is accomplished through complex rhythmic patterns and the language of gestures (or "abhinaya").
Today Bharatanatyam has attained a very high status and is immensely popular and many recognized universities offer degrees in Bharatanatyam, Artists are given international recognition and honors.
About
Arangetram
Arangetram is a Tamil word. Aranga meaning raised floor or stage and Etram meaning climbing or ascending, meaning Ascending the Stage. It is also called Rangapravesha in Kannada, another south Indian language, Ranga meaning Stage and Pravesha meaning Enter. Ideally, this should be the first public performance of an artist. After learning Bharatnatyam under the guidance of an accomplished guru, this is the occasion for the proud Guru to present her disciple to the public. This is the testing time for both the Guru & the Shishya (disciple) as the guru's knowledge & the disciple's talent both are judged by the public. Hence, the guru will decide when the disciple is ready for public appearance.
In olden days, disciples were not allowed to wear bells till their first public performance. In their first performance, they were made to worship the bells, wear them & then perform. Accompaniments play a major role in the making of a memorable dance performance.
Basic accompaniments are a Singer, Mridangam player, the Nattuvangam, flute and other instruments are also used.
The first performance, the first applause and the first word of appreciation are always special for an artist.
There is no wisdom nor knowledge, no art nor craft, no device or action, that is not to be found in Natya
