Bharatanatyam Grade: 3 Theory Notes

Dramatic representation or dance-drama. It features multiple characters, a storyline, speech (vachika), and elaborate costumes to enact a full play.

(Raised): Head turned upwards. Denotes looking at the sky, moon, or mountains.

: The basic structural unit of Bharatnatyam dance. Every adavu requires a specific combination of steps, torso movements, and hand gestures. bharatanatyam grade 3 theory notes

: The first item introducing expression ( Abhinaya ). The dancer interprets short lines of poetry, usually praising a deity or king, interspersed with brief rhythmic segments.

: The foundational "half-sitting" posture where the knees are bent sideways and heels are kept together. Dramatic representation or dance-drama

Natiya Kiramam (or Natiya Krama ) is the of the dance, moving beyond technique. The core sloka you must understand for Grade 3 defines the ultimate goal of a Bharatanatyam dancer:

The head is turned sharply to one side. Used to show aversion, anger, or turning away from someone. Denotes looking at the sky, moon, or mountains

: The ancient names of Bharatanatyam when it was performed in temples by Devadasis.

1️⃣