Bharatanatyam is one of the oldest classical dance forms of India, with its roots tracing back over 2,000 years to Tamil Nadu. It originated in Hindu temples, where it was performed by Devadasis as a sacred offering to the deities. The dance form is deeply connected to Natya Shastra, the ancient Indian treatise on performing arts written by Sage Bharata.
Bharatanatyam is known for its strong geometric movements, expressive abhinaya (facial expressions), rhythmic footwork, and structured grammar. Every gesture, posture, and glance carries meaning, blending devotion, storytelling, and artistic discipline.
In the 20th century, Bharatanatyam was revived and redefined as a classical stage art by pioneers such as Rukmini Devi Arundale, preserving its spiritual essence while presenting it to the modern world. Today, Bharatanatyam continues to thrive globally as a symbol of Indian culture, devotion, and artistic excellence.
Shiva Anjali is an invocatory dance offered to Lord Shiva, the Cosmic Dancer (Nataraja). It seeks divine blessings and honors Shiva as the source of rhythm, creation, and transformation.
Performed by: Dancer Haswariya Govindarajoo 💃✨
