Bharata Natyam, an ancient form of Indian classical dance, originated from Tamil Nadu, in the Southernmost part of India. Known for its distinctive hand gestures, eye movements and beats of the feet, Bharata Natyam was originally performed by female dancers in Hindu temples, as an offering to please the resident temple deity. Many of the ancient sculptures in Hindu temples are based on Bharata Natyam dance postures.

Bharata Natyam comes from the the words Bhava (Expression), Raga (Music), Tala (Rhythm) and Natya (Classic Indian Musical Theatre). It is said to be the embodiment of music in visual form, as a ceremony, or act of devotion. While there are five forms of dance, corresponding to the five elements, Bharata Natyam is a fire dance. The dance itself is composed of three main elements: Nritta (rhythmic dance elements), Natya (mime or dance with a dramatic flair), and Nritya (a combination of the previous two). Graceful, feminine lines and flowing dance are balanced with masculine movements and stomping.

Ancient texts and poetry describe the flourishing dance and music traditions of the time, which were intricately woven into culture and religious practices. They describe the ideal Bharata Natyam dancer as agile, slender, bold, skillful, hard-working, creative and beautiful. She was usually a Devadasi, meaning a girl who was married to the temple or its deity. The dancers were quite skillful and highly respected.

When Bharata Natyam is performed, a dancer is adorned with a special set of jewelry reserved for performances and ankle bells, floral hair decorations, and a unique, decorative costume that is meant to project the dancer's essence. The music is South Indian Carnatic style, performed with traditional South Indian instruments and the violin and flute. Today's performances are performed outside of the temple, often onstage, with live accompaniment.

Grier Cooper is a California-based writer, photographer and dancer. She draws on over twenty years of experience as a dancer, teacher and performer to create fiction and non-fiction for children and adults.