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Bharatanatyam, the ancient Indian classical dance form, is a mesmerizing journey through history, culture, and artistry. This enchanting dance has gracefully evolved over the centuries, branching into various styles, each with its unique charm and regional flavor. Mellatur Style also known as Mysore Style is one such evolved version of this art form.
Krishna Raja Wodeyar III
Beginning
Beginning
The Melattur style, known for its devotion and elegance, traces its lineage to the illustrious court of Krishna Raja Wodeyar III, who reigned from 1799 to 1868. Within his court, numerous eminent dancers flourished, laying the foundation for this unique dance form. However, it was Jetti Tayamma who emerged as the main pioneer, nurturing a style created by none other than Mangudi Dorairaja Iyer. Iyer's vision brought forth a revival of shudh nritta (pure dance) and the breathtaking art of perani, where dancers gracefully balance on clay pots.
The Melattur style is a graceful fusion of Shringara (romantic love) and Bhakthi Rasa (devotion). Its repertoire is a journey in itself, beginning with the auspicious Pushpanjali, followed by the prologue, Churnika, and Ganesh Vandana. What sets this style apart is its unique emphasis on items praising living patrons, often drawing from the Thanjavur Quartet repertoire. Dancers in this style are encouraged to stamp the floor softly, creating a rhythm that resonates through the salangai (anklet bells).
The Melattur style is a graceful fusion of Shringara (romantic love) and Bhakthi Rasa (devotion). Its repertoire is a journey in itself, beginning with the auspicious Pushpanjali, followed by the prologue, Churnika, and Ganesh Vandana. What sets this style apart is its unique emphasis on items praising living patrons, often drawing from the Thanjavur Quartet repertoire. Dancers in this style are encouraged to stamp the floor softly, creating a rhythm that resonates through the salangai (anklet bells).
One of the most enchanting elements of the Melattur style is the performance of complicated jathis (rhythmic patterns) on clay pots, a testament to the dancer's skill and poise. The repertoire seamlessly transitions through the familiar stages of Alaripu, Jatiswaram, Shabdam, Varnam, Padams, Javalis, Tillanas, and Sanskrit slokas. What distinguishes the Mysore school, in particular, is its mastery of nritta (pure dance), combined with a deep sense of aesthetics and exquisite abhinaya (expression). The dance is adorned with intricate karanas (graceful poses) and sculptural postures, adding an extra layer of visual delight.
One of the most enchanting elements of the Melattur style is the performance of complicated jathis (rhythmic patterns) on clay pots, a testament to the dancer's skill and poise. The repertoire seamlessly transitions through the familiar stages of Alaripu, Jatiswaram, Shabdam, Varnam, Padams, Javalis, Tillanas, and Sanskrit slokas. What distinguishes the Mysore school, in particular, is its mastery of nritta (pure dance), combined with a deep sense of aesthetics and exquisite abhinaya (expression). The dance is adorned with intricate karanas (graceful poses) and sculptural postures, adding an extra layer of visual delight.
Legacy
Legacy
Smt. Venkatalakshamma, with her mastery of the style, has left an indelible mark on the dance form.
Legacy
Legacy
Manaswini and Revathi Ramachandran, with Revathi being a student of Dorairaja Iyer, have continued to enchant audiences with their performances.
Legacy
Legacy
Harinie Jeevitha, a student of Sree Devi Vidyalaya, carries forward the legacy of Melattur with grace and devotion.
The Melattur style is a testament to the enduring beauty of Bharatanatyam. It seamlessly weaves devotion and elegance into a mesmerizing tapestry of movement and expression. With its rich history, unique execution, and timeless appeal, Melattur style continues to captivate hearts and souls, proving that the magic of Bharatanatyam knows no bounds.
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