What are some suggestions to improve the Bharatanatyam?

Improving Bharatanatyam, like any dance form, requires dedication, practice, and continuous learning. Here are some suggestions to enhance your skills in Bharatanatyam:

1. Regular Practice: Practice is essential for mastering Bharatanatyam. Set aside dedicated time each day to practice your dance techniques, including adavus (basic steps), mudras (hand gestures), and abhinaya (facial expressions).

2. Focus on Technique: Pay close attention to your technique and form. Work on refining your footwork, body alignment, hand movements, and facial expressions to ensure precision and clarity in your dance movements.

3. Learn from a Guru: Seek guidance from an experienced Bharatanatyam guru (teacher) who can provide personalized instruction, correction, and feedback to help you improve. Regularly attend classes and workshops to learn new choreography and deepen your understanding of the dance form.

4. Study Natya Shastra: Study the Natya Shastra, an ancient Sanskrit text on performing arts, which serves as the foundation of Bharatanatyam. Understanding the principles and aesthetics outlined in the Natya Shastra can deepen your appreciation and interpretation of Bharatanatyam repertoire.

5. Expand Repertoire: Explore a diverse range of Bharatanatyam compositions, including traditional margam (repertoire) items and contemporary choreographies. Expand your repertoire by learning compositions in different talas (rhythmic cycles), ragas (melodic modes), and themes.

6. Focus on Abhinaya: Develop your skills in abhinaya (expression) to convey emotions, stories, and themes effectively through facial expressions, eye movements, and body language. Study classical texts, poetry, and mythology to deepen your understanding of the narratives portrayed in Bharatanatyam repertoire.

7. Maintain Physical Fitness: Stay physically fit and flexible to perform Bharatanatyam with ease and grace. Incorporate regular stretching, strength training, and cardiovascular exercises into your routine to improve stamina, endurance, and agility.

8. Practice Nritta and Nritya: Balance your practice between nritta (pure dance) and nritya (expressive dance). Focus on mastering intricate footwork and rhythmic patterns in nritta sequences, while also developing emotional depth and storytelling skills in nritya pieces.

9. Attend Performances: Watch live Bharatanatyam performances by experienced dancers to observe their technique, artistry, and stage presence. Attend recitals, concerts, and dance festivals to gain inspiration, learn from others, and stay connected to the dance community.

10. Record and Review: Record your practice sessions and performances to review your progress, identify areas for improvement, and track your growth over time. Use video analysis to refine your technique, timing, and expression.

Remember that improvement in Bharatanatyam, as in any art form, is a journey that requires patience, perseverance, and passion. Embrace the process of learning, challenge yourself to step out of your comfort zone, and celebrate your achievements along the way.