India - Dance Classifications and Techniques

Question 1

tandava

Answer 1

the name given to this masculine or more abrupt and forceful form of which Shiva is the incarnation

Question 2

lasya

Answer 2

name of the quality of feminine or more gentle and lyrical dance

Question 3

nritta

Answer 3

pure/abstract

Question 4

nritya

Answer 4

thematic

Question 5

natya

Answer 5

narrative

Question 6

abhinaya

Answer 6

Abhinaya Dharpana was written by Nandikeshwara
- The term for the four independent but linked techniques of communication of the dance come from this treatise

Abhinaya - 4 techniques (don’t need to know sanscrit)
Angik - body gestures
Vachik - poetry, song, music, rhythm, recitation
Aharya - costume, make-up, jewelry
Satvick - physical manifestation of mental/emotional states

Question 7

devadasi

Answer 7

Devadasis are dedicated trained dancers whose role is as a spiritual offering and voice of deities. (Bharata Natyam)

Question 8

margam

Answer 8

Margam - the path or progression of the Bharata Natyam dance has four parts
Alarippu - flowering
Jatisvaram - melody, symbols
Varnum - text, syllables
Padams - love songs