27/08/2026
Bharatanatyam: more than just a dance
If you’re not familiar with Indian classical dance, you might look at a Bharatanatyam dancer and think, “Isn’t this Bollywood?”
Not at all.
Bharatanatyam is one of India’s oldest classical dance traditions, originating in South India. With intricate footwork, hand gestures, facial expressions and carefully defined movements, dancers tell stories, express devotion and bring stories of Hindu deities and sacred traditions to life.
Bollywood dance, on the other hand, developed through Indian cinema. It is contemporary, energetic and draws from many different dance styles, with a strong focus on entertainment and celebration.
Bharatanatyam is rooted in devotion, tradition and storytelling. Bollywood is rooted in cinema, celebration and entertainment.
For a Diwali festival in Kalkallo last year, our Bharatanatyam dancer Jinia was given a special brief: to use classical dance to express the spiritual meaning behind Diwali through two stories.
The first portrayed the arrival of Lord Ram in Ayodhya after his victory over Ravan. The second centred around Lakshmi Puja, honouring Goddess Lakshmi's qualities.
Jinia choreographed and created both pieces specifically for the festival, using Bharatanatyam to share these stories with the community.
It was a beautiful opportunity for audiences to experience the deeper cultural and spiritual meaning behind Diwali, while seeing the artistry and traditions of Bharatanatyam.
If you want your audience to experience the beauty, spirituality and storytelling of Indian classical dance, Bharatanatyam can create a truly memorable moment.
Get in touch with us to find out more.
Special thanks to Sindhubhairavi Centre for Indian Arts and Culture for cultivating the next generation of Bharatanatyam dancers and supporting this beautiful classical art form.
www.ignitebollywood.com.au