பரதநாட்டியப் பாணிகளின் வரலாற்றுத் தோற்றமும் அவற்றின் தனித்துவமான கலைக்கூறுகளின் அழகியல் பகுப்பாய்வும்

The Historical Evolution of Bharatanatyam Banis and an Aesthetic Analysis of Their Distinctive Artistic Features

Abstract

This study examines the historical evolution of the various Banis (styles) of Bharatanatyam and analyzes their distinctive aesthetic characteristics. Although Bharatanatyam is recognized as a unified classical dance tradition, it has developed unique stylistic dimensions through different guru–shishya (teacher–disciple) lineages and regional cultural traditions. The study traces the origins and development of the Thanjavur Bani, which was systematized by the Tanjore Quartet during the nineteenth century, along with its subsequent stylistic branches, namely the Pandanallur and Vazhuvoor Banis. It also examines the emergence of the Kalakshetra Bani, restructured by Rukmini Devi Arundale in the twentieth century, as well as the Kanchipuram and Melattur Banis.

Furthermore, the research comparatively analyzes how each Bani differs in its execution of adavus (basic dance movements), hastas (hand gestures), abhinaya (expressional techniques), and costume traditions. It also investigates the aesthetic transformations that occurred as Bharatanatyam evolved from a temple-based ritual tradition into a modern stage performance art. Finally, the study emphasizes the significant role of these Banis in preserving the diversity and richness of Bharatanatyam while highlighting the importance of safeguarding these stylistic traditions within the contemporary cultural landscape.