In previous posts, jatiswaram part 1 and part 2, we talked about the structure of Jatiswaram, Pallavi and charanam.  ” Da” Charanam was demonstrated in the previous posts. The following videos demonstrate the Charanams “Ni” and “Sa”.   1. Ni piece   2. Sa Piece.

Drishthi in sanskrit meaning “Vision”. In relation to our eyes it means “sight” or “to see”. The classification of these eye movements are based on how we move the eye balls. Infact we use each of them in our every day routine. Just a matter of identifying with their names. There are eight types of [...]

The word Alarippu means “a flowering bud.” It is an innovatory piece meaning it is performed before a dancer begins a whole performance. It is considered to be a warm up piece for the dancers. According to T. Balasraswati “Alarippu, which is based on rhythm alone, brings out the special charm of pure dance. The [...]

Mandi in some Indian languages refers to area around the thigh and knee. In some instance we can refer it to a bent knee. Eg: Araimandi is where the knee is half bent. Muzumandi or poorna mandala is where the knee is fully bent. In mandi adavus we make use of the Muzumadi position often. [...]

Introducing Forums

The following is the sollukettu for sutral adavu. The Bols are Tat Tai Tam Dhit Tai Tam. If you would like to download this audio, right click here and save to computer

This step incorporates a number of leg position and movements in it. For example we begin with the Araimandi, move on to the full sitting posture (muzumandi or purna mandala) and finally end in the Stanaka position. Other position used are the prerita and Alidha. The Bols are Tat Tai Tam Dhit Tai Tam which [...]

Recently one of my readers had asked about the following concepts. 1. Pada-artha 2. Vakya-artha 3. Sanchari Thought I shall do a posting on this. They form an important part of Nritya and Natya. Often considered when Abhinaya dance pieces like Padam or a varnam is being choreographed. Every padam or varnam has the above concepts [...]

The following video demonstrates the fifth and the sixth variation of KudittaMetta. The Bols are Tai Gha, Tai Ghi.

The following video demonstrates the third and the fourth variation of Kudittametta Adavu. The Bols are Tai Gha, Tai Ghi.