Bharatanatyam is a classical indian dance. This dance form denotes various 19th century a.d. - 20th cenrury a.d.. Bharata Natyam is known for its grace, tenderness, purity, sculpturesque poses. it is a one of the most familiar and widely performed dance styles, practiced by male and female dancers.

The meaning of Word Bharatnatyam is Bhavam means expression, Ragam means music, Thalam means Rhythm and Natyam means dance. The original names of Bharata Natyam were Sadir, Chinnamelan and most commonly Dasi Attam.

Bharata Natyam has three distinct elements to it.

Nritta: Rhythmic Dance Movements.

Natya: Mime or dance with a Dramatic Aspect.

Nritya: Combination of Nritta & Natya.

The Bharata Natyam is the manifestation of the ancient idea of the celebration of the eternal universe throuth the celebration of the beauty of the material body.

Adavus:            Basic Steps in Bharatnatyam

Araimandi:         Half Seated Position

Samapadam:      Legs Together

Mandi:               Full Seated Position

Araimandi
Ardhamandala is the fundamental posture of Bharatanatyam. It is also know as Ayatam, Araimandi, Ukkaramandala, or the Half sitting posture. Pure dance called Nritta involves frequent use of this posture.

Mandi
Mandi in some indian lanugages refers to area around the thigh and knee. In some instance we can refer it to a bent knee. Araimandi is where the knee is halfbent. Muzumandi or Poorna Mandala is where the knee is fully bent.

Adavus
The combination of repetitive body movements accompanied by hand gesrures are adavus. Sets of aduvus make up a jathi. jathis usually end in teermana or muktaya. the main of adavus are nataduvu, kattaduvu, tattaduvu, mandiaduvumjatim mettaduvu, kudittamettaduvum nadaim ardi and maiadavu.

Samapadam
Samapadam position is Standing stright, legs joined, eyes straight, hands on the hips. This may sound easy, but it is very important for a dancer. When a dancer is given rest in between the dance. Should be in this position.