Narrated by Shantha :

Bharatanatyam costumes are more than just outfits—they bring the dance to life! Inspired by Tamil bridal wear, they are designed for graceful movement and elegance.

Dancers wear vibrant silk, dazzling jewelry, and bold make-up to highlight expressions and emotions. Every piece, from the shimmering waist belt to jingling anklets, adds beauty and rhythm to the performance.

The Natya Shastra, an ancient dance text, guides how costumes and stages are prepared with special rituals and traditions. Henna-stained feet, flower-adorned hair, and colorful props make the storytelling even more magical.

Today, Bharatanatyam costumes blend tradition with modern comfort, ensuring dancers feel both regal and free to move.

Through color, fabric, and artistry, these costumes turn every performance into a breathtaking visual experience!

Audio Podcast : Chapter 20 - Guru Shishya Parampara

In this podcast Shantha explains about "The Guru Shishya Parampara in Bharatanatyam is a deeply revered tradition built on trust, respect, and devotion.

The Guru is not just a teacher but a mentor, guide, and role model who imparts not only dance techniques but also cultural, ethical, and spiritual wisdom. This learning process is highly personalized, with the Guru shaping the Shishya’s journey by identifying strengths, refining weaknesses, and providing constant feedback.

Shantha further explains about how knowledge is passed down orally, making the Gurukshetra—the sacred learning space—an essential part of the experience. Discipline, humility, and dedication are fundamental, as the Shishya must follow rigorous training while upholding the values of Bharatanatyam.

Shantha then reinforces that seeking the Guru’s blessings before and after performances is an important cultural practice, reinforcing the gratitude and reverence a Shishya holds for their Guru.

It is this sacred bond that ensures the continuity of Bharatanatyam, preserving its authenticity and essence across generations."

10 Minutes With Shantha : Chapter 19 Summary - Progression to Rasa Sutra

In the 4 part Audio podcast, Shantha introduces the concept of Progression to Rasa Sutra.

The center of the whole performance is the User Experience in the narrative of watching a Bharatanatyam Performance.

This chapter explores Rasa Sutra in Indian performing arts, emphasizing emotional depth in dance as described in the Natya Shastra. It explains how Vibhav (determinants) trigger emotions, which are expressed through Anubhav (gestures and expressions) and enriched by Vyabhichari Bhavas (transitory states).

Shantha explains how seamless is blending of these elements, known as Samyogat, leads to Rasa-Nishpatti, where the audience experiences deep emotional connection. Various Rasas, such as Shringara (love), Veera (valor), Raudra (anger), and Shanta (peace), are explored through movement and storytelling.

The chapter highlights the scientific and psychological aspects of Rasa, showing how Bharatanatyam transforms structured movements into profound artistic expression.