Devadasis meaning Deva (deity) and Dasis (devotee) were the temple dancers of South India. Mythologically, it is believed that it was Urvashi, one of the Apsaras in IndraвЂ™s court who taught dance to the devadasis. One such example is the Sadir Attam of Tamil Nadu, today known as Bharatanatyam. Most classical dance forms of India which are strictly based on the Natya Shastra, originated from within the temple complexes. In other words, they are dramatic representations of storytelling. Natya - Natya refers to the art forms that involve the use of dialogues along with music and dance. Two major elements of Abhinaya include rasa (emotion) and bhav (facial expressions).

Nritya - Nritya is a combination of Nritta and Abhinaya. It does not involve the use of Abhinaya to express. Nritta - Nritta is solely based on the movement of the body to the rhythm of songs. Other aspects such as the graceful body movements and postures, the mudras (hand gestures) and rasas (aesthetic experience) used in dance, drama and other performing arts have also been documented extensively.ДЄccording to the Natya Shastra, art forms can be classified into three major categories: One of the major aspects of Natya Shastra, the Abhinaya (ways in which an actor communicates or expresses) has been mentioned in great detail in this text. The Natya Shastra is considered the sacred text for all performing art forms. Sculpting, no knowledge, no art, no yoga and no Though the exact date of origin of this text cannot be traced, mythologically, it is believed that on Lord BrahmaвЂ™s command, Sage Bharata codified and documented the Natya Shastra. Dance was often performed as an act of Bhakti (devotion) towards the deity.ДЄll classical dance forms are based on what is called the Fifth Veda, the Natya Shastra. Most of these dance forms, whether classical or folk, have had a direct link with religion. Indian dance forms can be broadly classified into two categories Classical Dance and Folk Dance. On hearing this, Brahma created the Apsaras (celestial nymphs) who not only participated in the play but also became a part of IndraвЂ™s court. As they rehearsed, Bharata felt the need of women to play the female characters. The dance drama based on IndraвЂ™s victory over the demons, was choreographed and produced by Bharata, in which his hundred sons participated as actors. Dance, being one of them, has played a vital role in Indian society from ancient times.ДЄccording to the legends, the first dance drama was presented to the Gods and demons at the court of Indra (Lord of the Wind). Ideologies, languages, and traditions of different communities resulted in the germination of a variety of performing art forms.

India is known for its rich, diverse culture which is showcased through its performing arts, handicrafts, paintings, sculptures and architecture.

Bharatanatyam in tamil language