Bharatanatyam is a classical form of Indian dance. The preservation and integrity of this classical art is required from its teachers and pupils. If you get the opportunity to watch a Bharatanatyam showcase or an arangatrums, please note the elements that make up show order is known as the “Margams.”
The Margams entails the traditional 8-part performance sequence that forms traditional Bharatanatyam dance recitals. The Margams (or show order) have existed for many centuries and will continue to exist as an integral part of preserving the cultural identity of Bharatanatyam. Let’s explore what each part of the 8-part sequence means.
Pushpanjali
Pushpanjali means “offering of the flower.” This is the first performance of the dance recital and acts as an invitation to the gods, gurus, musicians, family, and friends.
Alarippu and Kauthvam
Alarippu means “flowering bud.”
During this section of the recital the performer enters a relaxed state through focusing on rhythm.
In this relaxed state, the dancer can “emerge” and “awaken.”
The Alarippu choreography has been preserved for generations and is one of the first dances, dance students will learn. Kavuthuvam is an invocation item, a devotional song in praise of the deity.
Sapdam
Sapdam follows Jatiswaram.
Sapdam is when expression first appears in the dance sequence. Through body expression, facial expression, and simple dance steps, dancers tell a lyrical story during Sapdam.
Jatiswaram
Jatiswaram is the next number in the sequence and acts as “pure dance.”
Pure dance is void of expression and emphasizes connection with music, rhythm, and motion.
Varnam
The longest and most highlighted portion of the dance showcase is the Varnam, which means “color.” This portion of the dance ceremony acts as a test of the dancer’s skills.
There are 2 components of Varnam; Purvaranga and Uttaranga.
You will notice the dancer combining pure dance steps with facial expression, and alternating back and forth between pure dance and expression dance.
This challenging portion of the recital can last 30-60 minutes and demands the utmost effort and endurance from the dancer.
Padam and Thilana
The ceremony begins to gradually close after the Varnam. There are two remaining sections to perform: Padam and Thilana.
Padam is an emotional devotional message and Thilana is the climactic conclusion of the ceremony.
Final Thoughts
While some modern Bharatanatyam gurus insist on preserving the continuity of the magrams, other modern instructors change the order of the magrams, adding, subtracting, and rearranging the recital/ performance order.
Dance, like technology, evolves and alters to change with society. With that being said, the best option would be to teach students about the magrams and if necessary, to make alterations and exceptions to the show’s formatting as the lead guru deems necessary.