A 2,000-year-old art form, taught with today's discipline.
Bharatanatyam traces its roots to the temples of Tamil Nadu and the Natya Shastra, the ancient Sanskrit treatise on the performing arts. What began as sadir — a temple dance tradition — was reshaped in the early twentieth century into the classical form performed on stages worldwide today.
We teach it the same way it has always been taught: through the guru-shishya relationship, where technique, rhythm and storytelling are built patiently, one adavu and one expression at a time. Preserving that lineage — not just the choreography — is the whole point of this program.
From first adavu to Arangetram.
Bharatanatyam is taught as a margam — a structured repertoire that builds in complexity. Here's the traditional path our students follow.
Adavus
Foundational steps & posture
Alarippu
First pure-rhythm piece
Jatiswaram
Rhythm meets melody
Shabdam
First storytelling piece
Varnam
The centrepiece — technique & emotion
Arangetram
The solo debut performance
Four pillars of the practice.
Every element of Bharatanatyam serves the same goal: precise technique in service of clear storytelling.
Adavus (Footwork)
The technical vocabulary of the dance — posture, rhythm and precision, built from day one.
Hastas & Mudras
The 28 single-hand and 24 double-hand gestures used to communicate meaning without words.
Abhinaya (Expression)
Facial and emotive storytelling — turning technique into narrative the audience can feel.
Nattuvangam & Carnatic Music
Understanding the rhythmic cymbals and Carnatic accompaniment that every piece is built around.
Your Arangetram — the solo debut.
An Arangetram is a dancer's first formal solo performance, offered at the feet of their guru after years of disciplined training. It marks the completion of one full margam and the beginning of a dancer's own artistic voice. Several of our students have completed their Arangetram at RB — and we prepare every serious student toward that same milestone.
Begin where the tradition begins.
One free trial class — meet the trainers and take your first adavu.
Book Your Free Trial