Tarangam

★ Essential

Sanskrit

The Kuchipudi item danced on the rim of a brass plate.

RepertoireKuchipudi

Meaning

Tarangam draws on the Krishna Leela Tarangini of Narayana Teertha. Its best-known feature is the dancer performing on the edges of a brass plate, sometimes balancing a pot of water on the head, executing rhythmic patterns without disturbing either. It is the image most associated with Kuchipudi.

Related words

AlarippuThe opening item — the body unfolding, like a flower.MargamThe traditional order of a Bharatanatyam recital.PadamA slow expressional piece, usually of love or devotion.MokshaThe concluding Odissi item, dance as release.JavaliA lighter, faster love song — playful where padam is grave.MangalamThe closing benediction that ends a performance.

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