Devarnamam- Jaganmohanane ll Bharathanatyam ll Margam series ll Deepa Kartha

Introduction

This tutorial is designed to guide you through the Bharatanatyam performance of "Devarnamam - Jaganmohanane," as choreographed by Smt. Krishnaveni Lakshman. The piece uses the Ragamalika set to Adi thalam and is composed by Purandara Dasa. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced dancer, this step-by-step guide will help you understand the movements, expressions, and musical nuances of this traditional dance.

Step 1: Understanding the Basics of Bharatanatyam

• Familiarize yourself with the fundamental postures and mudras (hand gestures) used in Bharatanatyam.
• Key positions to master include:
  • Aramandi (half-sitting position)
  • Samapada (standing position)
  • Alidha (side stance)
• Practice these positions to build a strong foundation for your dance.

Step 2: Learning the Music and Rhythm

• The composition is set in Adi thalam, a common rhythmic cycle in Carnatic music.
• Listen to the music multiple times to internalize the rhythm and melody.
• Focus on the following elements:
  • Beat Count: Understand the eight beats in Adi thalam.
  • Geetam: Familiarize yourself with the lyrics and their meaning to enhance your expression.

Step 3: Choreography Breakdown

• Break the choreography into manageable sections to learn more effectively.
• Focus on one section at a time, ensuring you can perform each before moving to the next.
• Pay attention to:
  • Body movements: Ensure your posture and alignment are correct.
  • Expressions: Convey the emotions embedded in the lyrics through facial expressions and gestures.

Step 4: Practicing Expressions and Emotions

• Bharatanatyam is not only about the physical movements but also about storytelling through expressions.
• Practice the following expressions (Bhavas):
  • Sringara (love)
  • Hasya (humor)
  • Shanta (peace)
• Use a mirror to observe your expressions and adjust them as needed.

Step 5: Putting It All Together

• Once you are comfortable with the individual sections, practice combining them into a fluid performance.
• Focus on transitioning smoothly between movements and maintaining rhythm and expression throughout.
• Record your practice sessions to identify areas for improvement.

Conclusion

By following these steps, you can effectively learn and perform "Devarnamam - Jaganmohanane" in Bharatanatyam. Remember to practice consistently and pay attention to both the technical and expressive aspects of your dance. As you grow more confident, consider performing in front of friends or family to share the beauty of this art form. Happy dancing!