Tracing its origins back to the temples of Tamil Nadu in southern India, Bharatanatyam has a long history that dates back to the 2nd century CE (Common Era).

Drawing inspiration from the Natya Shastra, an ancient Indian text on performing arts, this dance was initially called Sadir or Dasiattam and was performed by temple dancers called Devadasis as an offering to deities.

​Over time, it has evolved into the present-day form of Bharatanatyam, thanks to the creative efforts of artists, scholars, and enthusiasts.

The beauty of Bharatanatyam lies in its intricate footwork, eloquent facial expressions, and precise hand gestures, which work together to create a visually stunning and emotionally engaging performance.

The dance is built on three main aspects: Nritta (pure dance), Nritya (expressive dance), and Natya (dramatic storytelling). Through these elements, a Bharatanatyam recital often tells stories from Hindu mythology or delves into themes like love, devotion, and spirituality.

Hand gestures, or mudras, play a crucial role in Bharatanatyam as they help convey emotions, stories, and symbolic meanings. In addition, abhinaya, the wide range of facial expressions employed in this dance form, adds depth to the storytelling aspect of the performance.

Set to the tunes of Carnatic music, Bharatanatyam's rhythmic footwork and movements harmonize with the musical composition, resulting in a synchronized and enchanting performance.

Bharatanatyam has experienced a resurgence in popularity, with numerous artists and gurus working tirelessly to promote and preserve this traditional art form.

Today, it is practiced and performed around the world, transcending cultural and geographical boundaries. Bharatanatyam has also been adapted to explore contemporary themes and issues, making it a dynamic and evolving dance form that continues to captivate audiences worldwide.

​​The raga is often associated with lullabies and soothing melodies, making it an ideal choice for compositions that evoke feelings of peace, tranquility, and relaxation. The raga is also believed to have mystical healing properties, which adds to its allure and charm.

The structure of Nelaambari raga is based on a set of seven swaras, which are arranged in a specific order, creating its distinctive melodic identity. The ascending scale (arohana) follows the pattern: Sa Ri2 Ga3 Ma1 Pa Dha2 Ni2 Sa, and the descending scale (avarohana) is Sa Ni2 Dha2 Pa Ma1 Ga3 Ri2 Sa. The use of vivadi swaras (dissonant notes) in Nelaambari raga is one of its striking features, giving it a unique melodic texture.

Nelaambari raga has an ancient history, with roots dating back to the time of the Natyashastra, a seminal treatise on performing arts written by the sage Bharata Muni. The raga has been mentioned in various ancient and medieval musical texts, signifying its importance and longevity in the tradition of Indian classical music.

Over the centuries, several renowned composers and musicians have created soul-stirring compositions in Nelaambari raga. Nelaambari raga is also closely associated with dance forms such as Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi. Its calming and emotive nature makes it an ideal choice for portraying emotions like devotion, love, and longing in dance performances.

In conclusion, Nelaambari raga is a fascinating and significant part of Indian Carnatic music. Its soothing and emotive characteristics have captivated audiences and performers for centuries.

​With a rich history and repertoire of compositions, Nelaambari raga continues to enchant music lovers and contribute to the vibrant tradition of Indian classical music. Its association with lullabies and healing properties further adds to its mystique and appeal, ensuring that Nelaambari raga will continue to inspire and soothe listeners for generations to come.

Across human civilization, the arts of the time provide an insight into that life because after all, art imitates life. The purpose of arts in Vedic times was not merely pleasure and entertainment, nor only a showcase for the artist’s creativity. Rather the Vedic Arts were a form of expression intended to move both the artist and the spectator to a higher spiritual plane. Art was an expression of devotion and a means to transcend to a state of oneness with the divinity within and without.


Vedas and the Arts

Practically, all forms of art as we know them today have originated from the Vedas. Indian classical music has its origins in Samaveda, known for its rich chanting tradition. Drama has evolved from the Yajurveda, which talks about acting or abhinaya and the Atharvaveda that lays down the aesthetic sentiments, which add a deeper meaning to any art form, be it dance or drama.
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Note: it needs to be noted that in modern India, there are several medieval Indian art forms which have Persian and Mughal  influences. Some of these have  retained their original flavor, while other forms have merged with existing Indian art to morph into new styles, forms and techniques.

Others forms of Art

Other forms of art in the Vedic period, whether painting, sculpture or architectural design, all had the common purpose of conveying a higher reality. Each stroke of the brush, every color and every posture had an inner meaning that transformed it from a mere art piece to an instrument of deep contemplation and mediation.

Today a school of art called the ‘Vedic School’ has emerged that is based on Vedic principles. Not surprisingly, there is no formal training imparted in this style of art. It is all about the individual connecting with his inner self and unlocking their deepest potential. 

What the person puts on the canvas is merely an expression that facilitates this. 

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