Ardhamandala is the basic posture in Bharatanatyam. It is a recurring motif that gives the distinctive geometrical nature to the movements in Bharatanatyam. Considering the importance of this posture, I would like to share four things a new student needs to take care:
- Ensure that the feet is planted firmly flat on the ground. One of the common mistakes noticed is that the heels are raised.
- Avoid swaying of the waist. We should try and ensure that the waist movement is kept to a minimum when we do steps in this posture.
- When tapping the feet, maintain the Ardhamandal posture as you started. It is noticed that we tend to straighten the legs as we tap.
- There is a tendency to bend forward(when seen from the side) in Ardhmandal position. Try and keep the back straight.
Please check the video on Ardhamandala for a demonstration of above points.
Thank you for designing such a useful website. It helped me alot. I am 32 yrs old , hop i can learn Bharatnatyam.
Thanks a ton again.
Hi Anjali,
Thanks for posting this information on the Aramandalam. I am currently completing a masters thesis on the aramandi position in particular. Do you have a source you have taken your explanations of aramandalam positions from? or is this based on your own experiences?
I have had a very difficult time trying to find a clear definition/ description of the aramandi in a reliable text such as the natya shastra or abhinaya darpana.
Anyhelp would be amazing and greatly appreciated! thanks again in advance
Do put a picture or Videos for paada beads…