The Science of Bharata Natyam

Contents: Foreword. Preface. 1. Introduction. 2. Adavu (Foot Work). 3. Hasta Mudra (Asamyuta Hastas-Samyuta Hastas, Navagraha Hastas, Dasavar Hastas). 4. Bheda (Classification of Movements). 5. Abhinaya (Four Abhinayas-Angikabhinaya, Nayaki, Nayaka Lakshanas, Costumes and Ornaments). 6. Tala (Rhythm-Beat). 7. Costume and Jewellery. 8. Musical Instruments. 9. Arangetram (Maiden Performance). Index.

The Science of Bharata Natyam is an authentic explanation of the origin of the art and its elements like Adavu (footwork), hasta (hand gestures), bheda (movements of the head, the neck and the eyes), abhinaya (expressions, tala (rhythm), costume and jewellery, musical instruments used for Bharata Natyam and arangetram (maiden performance) with sketches, diagrams, tables and photographic illustrations. Also included in the volume are a diagrammatic representation of the elements of Bharata Natyam and a glossary of the terms used in this fine art. (jacket)