Padam

Telugu

A slow expressional piece, usually of love or devotion.

RepertoireBharatanatyam

Meaning

A padam is a lyrical composition performed slowly, with the emphasis almost entirely on abhinaya. The themes are typically shringara — love in its many states, including longing and separation — or devotion, and the nayika, the heroine, is drawn in detail. Padams reward stillness and subtlety rather than display.

Related words

JavaliA lighter, faster love song — playful where padam is grave.AlarippuThe opening item — the body unfolding, like a flower.MargamThe traditional order of a Bharatanatyam recital.PallaviOdissi's item of pure dance, blossoming from stillness.MangalacharanThe invocatory opening of an Odissi recital.ShabdamThe first item with lyrics, where expression enters.

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