The definition of "Indian art" and the emergence of a distinctive modernist movement in the wake of India's independence in 1947 have long been topics of discussion in the nation. Indian artists of today remain critical and involved in matters related to the nation's tumultuous and tumultuous history of colonialism, decolonization, and division. The concerns of representation and the legacies of nation-state construction, which are still felt today, frequently serve as the foundation for works. Artists react to bigger geopolitical objectives, the complexities of secularism, the country's disputed geographical boundaries, and faith and gender politics.
5. BOMMALAATTAM:
One of the earliest storytelling traditions in Tamil Nadu is the Bommalattam puppet show, which is connected to communal well-being, religious celebrations, and auspicious rituals. It was formerly employed to tell religious tales that portrayed moral and ethical principles. The puppet show was a powerful tool for spreading nationalism throughout the freedom movement. Iron rods and cords fastened to the puppets' limbs are used to control the Bommalattam display. Through an opening that is around four meters in height, one can view the puppets on their stage. Skilled musicians manipulate them while standing behind the stage with the other end of the strings or wires wrapped around their fingers, away from the audience's line of sight. The shows typically go on for a little over a week, sometimes even into the night. Among all the traditional Indian marionettes, the largest and heaviest are the Bommalattam puppets, which are typically constructed from wood, leather, or fabric. They are also the most talkative.
4. SILAMBAATTAM:
Developing the performer's physical strength and agility is the first step in the training process for Silambattam, which is based on the skillful use of weapons and Indian martial arts techniques. The body needs to be trained for endurance and stamina, and emphasis is placed on developing combat-ready skills including flexibility, balance, kinesthetic awareness, hand-eye coordination, and speed. The bamboo staff is the main weapon utilized, and its length is determined by the performer's height. Aside from the Maru, which is used for thrusting, other significant weapons in Silambattam are the sickle Aruval, the whip Savuku, the sword Vaal, the knife Katti, and the cudgel Sedikuchi. Among other spiritual lessons, the elegant and aggressive Silambattam dancing style incorporates subtle precepts of discipline, mindfulness, and camaraderie.
3. BHAGAVATA MELA:
In contemporary times, the ornate dance-drama of Bhagavata Mela has transformed to encompass elements of Kuchipudi and Bharatnatyam, such as delicate leg motions, subtle gestures, and the grace and elegance of expression to convey a story through abhinaya. According to the "Natya Shastra," the Bhagavata Mela consists of the three main branches of performing arts: Nritta, Nritya, and Natya. The underlying narrative, which is typically drawn from the great epics and the Puranas, is conveyed through the symbolic and moving gestures and expressions of Bhagavata Mela in time with the Carnatic style of music. These expressions and gestures also convey the mood and emotion, or ras, and the psychological condition, or bhava. To support the repertoire, the ensemble of instruments consists of the mridangam, percussion, flute, string instruments, and the Harmonium.
2. KATHAKALI:
Another Indian traditional dance style that has a storytelling theme is kathakali. Kathakali, the national language of the country, means'storyteller'. One of the most well-known and revered dance styles in India is Kathakali, which originates in Kerala in the country's south. It comes from the stories of Shiva and the Ramayana. Intriguing facial motions and elaborate costumes, such as traditional face masks and body paints (usually green), are features of kathakali. Soppanam is the name of the song that just has vocals. The dialogue between the dancers is conveyed solely via their body language and facial expressions, mirroring the narration of the epic Hindu mythology tales that portray both good and evil. Watching this is quite fascinating!
1. BHARATNATYAM:
Developed in Tamil Nadu's Hindu temples, Bharatanatyam is regarded as the oldest classical dance style in India. It finally became popular in South India. The Sanskrit work "Natya Shastra" by Bharata Muni, which is a treatise on performing arts, serves as the theoretical foundation for this dance style, which is also known as Sadir. With exquisite footwork and striking gestures, the dancers of Bharatnatyam depict tales and narratives pertaining to Hindu religious themes and spiritual concepts. The three main genres of performing arts are represented in its repertory of performances: the dramatic and slower Nritya, the play Natya, and the pure dance Nritta. The accompanists contribute greatly to the entire performance.
CONCLUSION:
These folk art forms function as a medium for narrative and communication in addition to showcasing the artistry and talent of the creators. They are an essential component of South India's cultural legacy since they portray the customs, beliefs, and folklore of the communities from whom they originate.
