Pushpanjali
RAGAM : Nattai
TALAM : Adi
The performance begins with Pushpanjali, meaning “an offering of flowers.” A devotional invocation and the traditional opening piece in a Bharatanatyam performance.Symbolically, it is the dancer’s salutation to the stage (Natya Mandapa), the guru, the musicians, the audience, and the divine energies that preside over the art of dance. A floral offering of devotion.
Natesha Kautvam
RAGAM : Hamsadhwani
TALAM : Chaturasya Ekam
COMPOSER : Tanjore Quartet
Natesha Kautvam is another traditional invocatory item in Bharatnatyam which celebrates Lord Shiva in his divine form as Nataraja , the Lord of Dance. The Dance combines precise, rhythmic patterns (nritta) with expressive gestures (Abhinaya) to depict the glory of Shiva, his iconic features, and his role as a cosmic dancer. The rhythm and movement convey the dynamism and grace of the divine dance.
Jatiswaram - Vasantha
RAGAM : Vasantha
TALAM : Rupakam
COMPOSER : Tanjore Quartet
A captivating and dynamic composition, the Vasantha Jatiswaram showcases the beauty of pure Bharatanatyam dance (Nritta). It focuses solely on the intricate execution of Jatis (rhythmic syllables) and Swaras (musical notes), demonstrating the dancer's skill and precision in weaving together complex rhythmic phrases with expressive movements.
Shabdam - Sarasijakshulu
RAGAM : Ragamalika
TALAM : Misra Chapu
COMPOSER : Tanjore Quartet
"Sarasijakshulu" is a joyous and poetic Shabdam, a type of composition in Bharatanatyam where the dancer is introduced to the art of Abhinaya (facial expressions and gestures). This particular Shabdam depicts the playful nature and mischievous pranks of Lord Krishna. It narrates his interactions with the gopikas (cowherd girls) in the village, including their reactions to his antics, such as stealing their clothes while bathing. The dance beautifully blends pure dance steps (Nritta) with expressive storytelling (Nritya).
Varnam - Ninne nera namminanura
RAGAM : Ataana
TALAM : Adi.
COMPOSER : Tyagaraja.
"Ninne Nera Namminanura" is a captivating Pada Varnam, a significant piece in the Bharatanatyam repertoire, often placed at the heart of a performance. This devotional composition expresses profound faith and surrender, with the central theme being, "I have no one but you to guide me," typically addressed to Lord Krishna or Rama. The lyrics beautifully articulate complete trust in the divine, acknowledging the futility of worldly pursuits and realizing the importance of lifelong devotion.
Sirutha Navvulavadu
RAGAM : Mohana
TALAM : Adi
COMPOSER : Tallapaka Annamacharya
In this folk song, Alamelumanga describes all the ten Avatars to her friend addressing her as little sister. This song is full of colloquial Telugu vocabulary devoid of Sanskrit words. This beautiful Keerthana describes the enchanting, child-like smiling appearance of Lord Venkateswara, and its lyrics express admiration for the Lord's charm and his divine attributes.
Brahmam Okate
RAGAM : Bowli
TALAM : Adi
COMPOSER : Tallapaka Annamacharya
Brahmam Okate is a captivating and universally resonant composition by esteemed composer Annamacharya. This keerthi beautifully expresses the essence of universal equality and the oneness of the Supreme Spirit. The composition is a call to recognize the divine within every creature and embrace the spirit of love and inclusivity.
Thandava Keli Hanuman Chalisa
RAGAM : Ragamalika
TALAM : Adi
COMPOSER : Saint Tulsidas
This revered Hindu devotional hymn, the Hanuman Chalisa, beautifully recounts the greatness of Lord Hanuman, highlighting his remarkable qualities and steadfast devotion to Lord Rama. Within its verses, the Chalisa inspires and instills the qualities of devotion, courage, strength, humility, wisdom, and a spirit of service, mirroring those embodied by Lord Hanuman.
Thillana
RAGAM : Kadanakutuhala
TALAM : Adi
COMPOSER : Dr. Mangalampalli Balamurali
The Thillana, the grand finale of a Bharatanatyam recital, is a dazzling display of rhythm and energy. This concluding piece features captivating rhythmic patterns, graceful movements, and intricate footwork, creating a memorable and exhilarating experience.
Shri Ramachandra Mangalam
RAGAM : Madhyamavathi
TALAM : Adi
COMPOSER : Sri Arunachala Kavirayar
Glory to Shri Ramachandra,
Mangalam is the concluding piece of the performance, offered as a prayer for peace, well-being, and universal harmony. The dancer seeks blessings from the divine, expresses gratitude to the audience, guru, and musicians, and brings the journey to a serene close. It is a joyful and auspicious farewell, marking the end of the Arangetram with grace and devotion.