Bharatanatyam is the classical dance form of South India. It combines rhythmic footwork  adavus with melodic storytelling abhinaya.  Bharatanatyam originated in the temples and was traditionally performed by devadasis, "servants of god," who dedicated their lives to praising God through dance.

 

Our Mission

The Bala Center for South Indian Dance is dedicated to the teaching of Bharatanatyam to the public of all ages, backgrounds and experiences. We adhere to the style of T. Balasaraswati and have a commitment to the traditional choreography of the classical repertoire alaripu, jatiswaram, shabdam, varnam, padam and thillana. The marriage of music with dance is central to this style and teaching. 


Bharatanatyam, in its highest moment, is the embodiment of music in a visual form.
— T. Balasaraswati