The history of Bharatanatyam goes back almost 2,000 years, but the traditional style continues to evolve with contemporary twists.

“It is one of the seven main dance forms in India and currently probably the most prolific worldwide.”
“It is also the most rigid, structured and geometric dance form.”

A brief history of Bharatanatyam

The dance style began as Hindu temple performances, Ms Somesha said.

It evolved into a royal court performance following the British raj in the mid-1800s before falling in popularity.

Bharatanatyam was revived and modernised in the 1930s by Rukmini Devi Arundale.

The style has grown in popularity outside of its traditional home of southern India.