Alarippu
The Alarippu (meaning flowering bud) is traditionally the first dance piece that Bharatanatyam dancers learn and perform in this type of classical dance recital.[1] It is an invocation piece, symbolizing the offering of respects to both God, the guru, and the audience.[2] The Alarippu was created in five different talas by the four brothers historical named Tanjore Quartet in the nineteen century Tanjore Royal Court. The original concept of Alarippu is now almost disappeared in the mainstream presentations of Bharata Natyam. The Kishna Brothers Ram and Suresh from The Netherlands, studied at the source of Bharata Natyam, at Tanjore Guru K.P.Kittappa Pillai and his son Tanjore K.P.K.Chandrasekaran, they are one of the few artists whom have kept the original concept of Alarippu safe.
It is a dance piece accompanied by a nattuvanar (verbal percussionist) and a mrudangist. While dancing this piece shows basic steps. It contains no abhinaya (facial expressions). [3] The act is entirely based on rhythm and is focused on relaxing the body of the dancer, thereby relaxing their mind and symbolizes their awakening.[4].It is generally taught to dancers first in Tishra Ekam tala
References
- Faubion Bowers (1953). "The dance in India". Columbia University Press: 48–50. Cite journal requires
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(help) - Roy, Sujoya (15 June 2005). For Ganesh, Remover of Obstacles. iUniverse, Inc. p. 219. ISBN 0-595-34556-5.
- Ragini Devi (1 July 2002). Dance Dialects of India (3 ed.). Motilal Banarsidass Pub. pp. 56. ISBN 81-208-0674-3.
- Vatsayan, Kapila (15 June 2003). The Square and the Circle of the Indian Arts. Abhinav Publications. p. 81. ISBN 81-7017-362-0.
It is a beautiful dance