01/08/2014
Divine Beauty as an important Aspect of Indian Classical Dance
Beauty is an essential attribute of the Divine. Absolute Beauty and the Divine are one and the same. The Divinity, the Divine Mother, is indescribably beautiful, aesthetic, tender, sweet, subtle, charming and attractive.
Therefore in the Indian Classical Dance, which is essentially an expression of Divine Grace and subtle Divine Beauty, very much emphasis is laid upon Beauty and Elegance of the dance-movements as well as the appearance of the dancer.
In ancient times the Temple-Dancer was regarded and worshipped as the living Representative of the Divinity. The real Temple-Dancer was supposed to be highly dignified, pure, of good moral character, very well educated and exclusively devoted to divine ideals and aspirations.
The outer appearance of the Temple-Dancer, the dresses, the jewels, etc. were arranged in such a way, that everyone got the impression, that not an ordinary human being is dancing, but a vibrant, beautiful, real Divinity.
Even now, in the present performances of Indian Classical Dance, especially in the Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi-styles, very much emphasis is laid upon the Divine appearance of the dancer. The costumes and ornaments, used in these dances, are extremely beautiful and colourful. The ornaments are so attractive, that they immediately delight the eyes and heart of the viewers.
