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Kuchipudi by T.S.Parthasarathy |
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If Bharata Natyam is a product of the Tamil
soil, its counterpart in Andhra Pradesh is the Kuchipudi style
of dance. About 500 years ago, a new drama form was created by
some Brahmin families in the Telugu speaking areas and was known
as Bhagavata Mela Nataka. Later, the main center of this dance
became Kuchipudi in the Krishna District and the art itself came
to be named after this village.
Siddhendra Yogi is considered to be the founder of the Kuchipudi tradition but he continues to be a legendary figure. ‘Bhama Kalapam’, the most popular item in a Kuchipudi performance, is stated to be his work. Till recently women were forbidden to take part in the dance but now that the ban has been lifted, they are playing a pivotal role in its revival. The most thrilling features of Kuchipudi is the rhythmic Gati variations and some artistes attempt as many as 35 rare step combinations. The forte of this style is pada abhinaya which a gift artists renders in a single rasa. Narayana Tirtha’s ‘Balagopala Tarangam’ is the main item and includes an intricate dance on a brass plate. The
present day repertoire of Kuchipudi includes songs from Usha Parinayam,
Prahlada Nataka, Golla Kalapam, Ashtapadis, Sabdams, Padams, Varnams
and Tillana. Fresh items are being added from time to time. Kuchipudi
is becoming increasingly popular in the city of Madras and many
Bharata Natyam dancers are taking training in this style as an
additional accomplishment
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