Jathiswaram

Sanskrit

Pure dance set to musical notes, with no words.

RepertoireBharatanatyam

Meaning

Jathiswaram follows alarippu in the margam. It is set to swaras — sung note names — in a chosen raga and tala, and remains entirely nritta: there are no lyrics and nothing is depicted. It establishes the dancer's line, rhythm and command of the tala.

Also written: jatiswaram

Related words

SwaraA musical note, named and sung.MargamThe traditional order of a Bharatanatyam recital.AlarippuThe opening item — the body unfolding, like a flower.PadamA slow expressional piece, usually of love or devotion.JavaliA lighter, faster love song — playful where padam is grave.TillanaThe brilliant closing item of pure dance.

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