ABSTRACT
The term 'vivarta' refers to an illusory appearance of transfiguration. In a philosophical context, particularly within the Vedanta system, the doctrine of vivarta is utilized. The journey of space in Bharatanatyam, from temples to modern proscenium, incredibly moulds the spatial aspects through fusions, thus debunking the actuality of political Bharatanatyam, which has, however, remained constant for ages. Intersectional fusions then do more than blend contemporary politics with classical technique - they decolonize the very knowledge systems that uphold the dance's authority, thus furthermore challenging the idea that Bharatanatyam must remain frozen in a curated museum of authenticity.Please type your name / email id along with your comment. Anonymous and derogatory comments will be removed.
Bharatanatyam - a classical art form – who can own it?
ReplyDeleteBharatanatyam is a classical art form. Though structured, if one agrees to the codification of Bharatanatyam by Tanjavur Quartet (margam), it has a very dynamic quality allowing to journey through space, time and content. It has a unique stylization which suits all types of genders. The form projects the strength of the stone temples and grace of the creepers within it. If mythology, which forms the backbone of content in Bharatanatyam, is given a historical status; then Bharatanatyam, has the capacity to showcase historical to contemporary events, persons, ideas and views and liberating minds. Thus it is seen that Bharatanatyam has been and is evolving with the times- from temple to proscenium to digital times, holding itself high and already traversed through many challenges, innovations, fusions and fads.
Art is that which is beautiful, there is joy in beauty. Conceding that beauty lies in the eye of the beholder, it is rasa as explained by Bharata in “Natyasastra” that helps connect audience to the art form and ideas being showcased. Any art form showcases the feelings and emotions of people living in timeline of the stories presented, by which one learns traditions and culture of those people and their progression through life. Bharatanatyam or any other art form is owned by one who can use it well as a language to express their ideas and concepts and those who receive these sentiments portrayed with joy.