Principles of Kuchipudi

 Principles of Kuchipudi

The dance form is based on several key principles that are fundamental to its practice and performance. Here are some of the main principles of Kuchipudi:

1. Tala and Layam: Kuchipudi is performed to the rhythm of a specific beat or tala, which is set by the accompanying musicians. The dancer must have a strong sense of timing and must be able to maintain the rhythm of the tala throughout the performance. The tempo or speed of the rhythm is also important, and the dancer must be able to adapt their movements to match the pace of the music.
2. Abhinaya: Abhinaya is the art of expression through gestures and facial expressions. In Kuchipudi, the dancer must be able to convey emotions and tell stories through their movements and expressions. Abhinaya is a key element of the dance form and requires years of practice and training to master.
3. Natya: Kuchipudi is not just a pure dance form but also involves storytelling through dance or Natya. The dancer must be able to portray characters from Hindu mythology and bring them to life through their movements and expressions. The stories are often accompanied by music and sung or spoken word, and the dancer must be able to synchronize their movements with the music and dialogue.
4. Rasa: Rasa is the emotional flavour or essence of a performance. In Kuchipudi, the dancer must be able to convey the appropriate rasa or emotion for each scene or character. The eight Rasas or emotions are love, joy, anger, courage, sorrow, disgust, fear, and wonder.
5. Lasya and Tandava: Kuchipudi involves a balance between two aspects of dance - Lasya and Tandava. Lasya is the graceful and fluid aspect of dance, while Tandava is the more energetic and dynamic aspect. The dancer must be able to blend these two aspects together to create a harmonious and balanced performance.
6. Costume and Makeup: The costumes and makeup worn by Kuchipudi dancers are an integral part of the dance form. The costumes are usually brightly coloured and ornate and are designed to enhance the beauty and grace of the dance movements. The makeup is also important, with the dancer using facial makeup to highlight their expressions and emotions.

Compositions

 Kuchipudi Compositions

These compositions include both traditional pieces as well as newer works created by modern choreographers. Here are some of the main types of compositions in Kuchipudi:

1. Varnam: Varnam is a complex and elaborate composition that is the centrepiece of a Kuchipudi performance. It combines elements of pure dance, storytelling, and expression, and is performed in two parts - the Sahitya or lyrical section, and the Swara or rhythmic section. Varnams are often based on themes from Hindu mythology, and require years of training and practice to master.
2. Tillana: Tillana is a fast-paced and energetic composition that showcases the dancer's skill and agility. It is performed to a specific rhythmic pattern, and involves intricate footwork and quick movements of the hands and body. Tillanas are often accompanied by lively music and are a popular feature of Kuchipudi performances.
3. Padam: Padam is a composition that focuses on expressing emotions through gestures and facial expressions. It is performed to a slow and melodious tune, and often tells a story or conveys a particular mood or emotion. Padams are an important part of the Kuchipudi repertoire and require a high level of skill and sensitivity to perform.
4. Javali: Javali is a light-hearted and playful composition that is typically performed by female dancers. It combines elements of dance and music, and often features themes of love and romance. Javalis are known for their fast-paced footwork and lively movements, and are a popular feature of Kuchipudi performances.
5. Sabdam: Sabdam is a composition that combines elements of pure dance and storytelling. It is usually performed to a catchy and rhythmic tune and often features themes of love and devotion. Sabdam are popular among audiences for their lively and entertaining nature.
6. Keertana: Keertana is a devotional composition that is typically performed as a prayer or offering to a Hindu deity. It combines elements of dance and music, and often features repetitive chanting of the deity's name. Keertanas are an important part of the Kuchipudi repertoire and are often performed as a prelude to other compositions.

Famous Kuchipudi Dancers

 Famous Kuchipudi Dancers

Here are some of the most well-known and famous Kuchipudi dancers:

1. Padma Bhushan Dr Vempati Chinna Satyam: Dr Vempati Chinna Satyam is widely considered to be one of the greatest Kuchipudi dancers and choreographers of all time. He was a disciple of the legendary Kuchipudi guru, Tadepalli Perayya, and went on to establish the Kuchipudi Art Academy in Chennai, which has trained many of the top Kuchipudi dancers in the world.
2. Padma Bhushan Dr Sobha Naidu: Dr Sobha Naidu is another renowned Kuchipudi artist who has made significant contributions to the dance form. She has performed extensively in India and abroad and has been recognized with several prestigious awards for her work, including the Padma Shri and the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award.
3. Dr Ananda Shankar Jayant: Dr Ananda Shankar Jayant is a prominent Kuchipudi dancer, choreographer, and scholar who has been instrumental in promoting the dance form and raising awareness about its history and cultural significance. She is the recipient of several awards, including the Padma Shri and the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award.
4. Vyjayanthi Kashi: Vyjayanthi Kashi is a renowned Kuchipudi artist who has been performing for over four decades. She has trained under several of the leading Kuchipudi gurus and has developed a unique style that blends traditional Kuchipudi with contemporary elements.
5. Raja Radha Reddy: Raja Radha Reddy is a celebrated Kuchipudi artist who has performed extensively in India and abroad. He is known for his powerful and dynamic style of dance and has been recognized with several awards, including the Padma Shri and the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award.
6. Uma Muralikrishna: Uma Muralikrishna is a prominent Kuchipudi artist who has been performing and teaching for over three decades. She is known for her fluid and graceful style of dance and has been recognized with several awards for her contributions to the art form.

GAJJE POOJA

 Gajje Pooja

"Gajje Pooja" is a traditional segment in the Kuchipudi dance repertoire, particularly associated with the dance dramas performed in the Kuchipudi style. It is a ritualistic dance performed to pay homage to Ganesha, the elephant-headed Hindu deity, who is revered as the remover of obstacles and the patron of arts and sciences.

During the Gajje Pooja, dancers typically portray the character of Lord Ganesha. They may wear elaborate costumes and adornments resembling the deity, including an elephant headpiece or mask. The dance often involves rhythmic movements, gestures, and expressions that symbolize Ganesha's attributes and characteristics.

The term "Gajje" refers to the anklets worn by the dancers, which produce a distinct sound as they move. These anklets are an essential part of traditional Indian dance forms and play a significant role in accentuating the rhythm and adding auditory appeal to the performance.

The Gajje Pooja segment is not only a devotional offering but also serves as a traditional invocation to seek the blessings of Lord Ganesha for a successful and auspicious performance. It sets the tone for the subsequent pieces in the dance drama, creating a spiritual ambiance and invoking a sense of reverence among the performers and the audience alike.

Overall, Gajje Pooja in Kuchipudi showcases the fusion of artistry, spirituality, and cultural traditions inherent in Indian classical dance forms, enriching the performance experience with its devotional fervor and aesthetic beauty.

Kinkini is the anklet bells which dancer wears while dancing.

The dancer should reverently touch her forehead and eyes with them before she wears it for the dance performance as an offering of respect. The features of the Kinkini is described in Abhinaya Darpana and it is recited as a prayer by the dancer.

SLOKAM:

 “Suswarascha Suroopascha Sookshma Nakshatra Devathaha 

Kinkinya Kaamsyarachitha Ekaikaangulikaantharam 

Bhandiyaaneelasoothrena Granthibischa Dridampunaha 

Shathadwayam Shathamvaapi Paadayornaatyachaarini“

Kinkini is the anklet bells which dancer wears while dancing. The dancer should reverently touch her forehead and eyes with them before she wears it for the dance performance as an offering of respect. The features of the Kinkini is described in Abhinaya Darpana and it is recited as a prayer by the dancer.

Youtube Videos:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p8VtVeFYoyk

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8r6duSpcrYk

Websites:

https://www.kuchipudisvs.com/gajje-pooja/

Kuchipudi Dance

 Kuchipudi Dance

It derives its name from a village in Krishna district Andhra Pradesh. The Kuchipudi style was conceived by a sage Siddhendra Yogi, a very talented Vaishnava poet of 17th century. This form of dance was mostly performed by bhagavatars. It was a male oriented tradition belonging to Bhagavata mela troop which was later taught to females too. This form of dance is a complete art system because in this form the Navarasas and all four kinds of Abhinaya are being interpreted. This is achieved with Lokadharmi and Natyadharmi. It begins with an invocation to Lord Ganesha followed by nritta (non-narrative and abstract dancing); shabdam (narrative dancing) and natya. The dance is accompanied by sing which is typically Carnatic music. Like other classical dances, Kuchipudi also comprises pure dance, mime and histrionics but it is the use of speech that distinguishes Kuchipudi’s presentation as dance drama. Kuchipudi dance repertoire consists of pushpanjali, kowthwam, jastiwaram, sabdam, keertanas, astapadis, adhyatimikaramayana, tarangam, slokam, javalis, darurus etc.

Kuchipudi is an established dance form that originated in Andhra Pradesh. This classical dance is named after the village Kuchelapuram, 65 km from Vijaywada in Andhra Pradesh.

Kuchipudi is known for its impressive, quick footwork, dramatic characterization, expressive eye movements, and spirited narrative. It is a blend of tandava and lasya elements. A distinctive feature of this dance is the execution on a brass plate and moving the plate to the accompaniment of Carnatic music.

The Kuchipudi is a dance drama of Nritta, Nritya, and Natya. The Nritta consists of Theermanams and Jatis, the Nritya of Sabdams, and the Natya of acting with Mudras (hand gestures) for the songs. Nritta encompasses steps and movements in the form of patterns of dance that, though beautiful, have no meaning to convey. While fast becoming a solo presentation, Kuchipudi still has strong ties to the dance-drama tradition. It combines the elements of speech, mime, and pure dance. It takes at least seven to ten years to master this art form.

What are the stages/levels in dance? 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UAGoJi5SpAo

Adavulu

 Adavulu (Adugulu/Nadaka)

In Kuchipudi dance, "Adavulu" refers to the basic steps or movements performed by the dancers. These steps are fundamental to Kuchipudi and form the building blocks of the dance vocabulary.

Adavulu encompass a wide range of movements, including various footwork patterns, stances, and gestures. They are often categorized based on their complexity, rhythm, and purpose within a dance composition. Dancers learn and master Adavulu through rigorous training, focusing on precision, coordination, and expression.

Adavulu are integral to the performance of Kuchipudi dance items, such as Jatiswaram, Padams, and Tillanas. They are combined with hand gestures (mudras), facial expressions (abhinaya), and rhythmic patterns to create a cohesive and expressive dance narrative.

During a Kuchipudi performance, dancers demonstrate their proficiency in Adavulu by executing them with grace, fluidity, and precision, contributing to the overall aesthetic appeal and storytelling of the dance piece.

Adavu refers to the basic steps or units of movement in Kuchipudi dance, much like "adavus" in other Indian classical dance forms such as Bharatanatyam. These adavus form the foundation upon which more complex choreographies are built, and they encompass a wide range of movements involving footwork, body postures, hand gestures (mudras), and facial expressions.

Here's an overview of the structure and types of adavus in Kuchipudi dance:

1. Tattu Adavu: Tattu adavus involve simple rhythmic patterns performed with the feet. They are usually executed in a straight line or in various geometric patterns. Tattu adavus help in developing a strong sense of rhythm and coordination.

2. Kattadavu: Kattadavus are adavus where the knees are bent, and the feet are placed in specific positions. These steps often require balance and control, and they may involve movements such as bending, twisting, or stretching of the body.

3. Mandi Adavu: Mandi adavus are executed in a half-sitting position, with the knees bent and the body lowered closer to the ground. These adavus focus on strength, stability, and flexibility in the lower body.

4. Jati Adavu: Jati adavus are rhythmic compositions consisting of combinations of footwork patterns and syllables. They are usually more complex than other adavus and are characterized by intricate rhythmic sequences.

5. Sarikal Adavu: Sarikal adavus involve quick and agile movements of the feet, often resembling the movements of a bird. These adavus require speed, precision, and lightness in the footwork.

6. Utplavana Adavu: Utplavana adavus are jumping steps where the dancer leaps or jumps from one position to another. These adavus add dynamic energy and excitement to the dance performance.

7. Muktaya Adavu: Muktaya adavus are expressive movements that convey emotions or depict stories through mime and gesture. These adavus require coordination between hand gestures, facial expressions, and body movements.

Each type of adavu serves a specific purpose in Kuchipudi dance, contributing to the overall aesthetics, rhythm, and storytelling aspects of the performance. Dancers typically learn and practice these adavus extensively to develop their technique and artistic expression, laying the groundwork for more advanced choreographies and compositions.

Videos:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FSfq0bLieq4

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9tyw1jEfCRE

https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=l1DGBxQioDY

Kautuvam

 Kautuvam

In Kuchipudi, "Kautuvam" is a traditional dance form that holds a significant place in the classical dance repertoire. Like in Bharatanatyam, Kautuvam in Kuchipudi serves as a rhythmic composition that combines elements of pure dance (nritta) with expressive storytelling (abhinaya).

In a Kuchipudi Kautuvam, dancers perform intricate footwork patterns, hand gestures (mudras), and rhythmic movements, synchronized with the music and rhythmic syllables (solkattu). The choreography of Kautuvam often involves a series of rhythmic variations and compositions, showcasing the dancer's skill in both rhythm and technique.

Kuchipudi Kautuvams may also include elements of abhinaya, where dancers portray characters, emotions, and narratives through facial expressions, gestures, and body language. The themes of Kautuvams can vary, ranging from devotional and mythological stories to expressions of love, nature, or social themes.

The music for Kuchipudi Kautuvam is typically composed in a specific raga (melodic framework) and tala (rhythmic cycle), with lyrics that may include verses or hymns praising deities or invoking blessings.

Overall, Kautuvam in Kuchipudi is a dynamic and vibrant dance form that showcases the dancer's technical prowess, expressive abilities, and artistic interpretation, making it an integral part of the Kuchipudi dance tradition.

This is one of the invocatory items specially dedicated to a particular deity. For example Ganesha Kavuthvam, Natesha Kavuthvam, and Andal Kavuthvam etc. It has a unique structure and begins with recitation of rhythmic solkattu-s followed by melodic rendition of lyrics and again end with Solkattu-s. Other varieties in Kavuthvam are Pachamukha Kavuthvam and Nava sandhi Kavuthvam with combination and in praise of multiple deities. Raga-s used in Kavuthvam are Naata, Varaali, Hamsa Dhwani, Gowla, and Arabhi etc. Tala-s are used from 35 Tala system with different combination of Jaathi-s and gathi-s depending upon the style of composition. For example – Adi tala with chaturasram and Eka tala with Sankeernam etc. Instruments used in Bharatha Natyam are Violin, Mridangam, Ghatam, Kanjira, and Tambura, cymbals and for temple tradition, Nagaswaram and Dolu are used. The sequence of Bharatha Natyam Repertoire includes initially Alarippu, Jathi swaram, Sabdam, Swara Jathi, Pada Varnam, Padam (Vilamba kalam with abhinaya), Javali, Ashtapadi, Kriti/Kirtana, Tillana, and Sloka.

https://sangeethas.wordpress.com/2008/09/19/kavuthuvams-a-study/

Bhrahmanjali

 Bhrahmanjali

In Kuchipudi, "Brahmanjali" is a traditional invocatory piece performed at the beginning of a dance recital. Similar to its counterpart in Bharatanatyam, Brahmanjali in Kuchipudi serves as a reverent offering to the divine, seeking blessings and setting a spiritual atmosphere for the performance.

During Brahmanjali in Kuchipudi, dancers typically present a series of gestures (mudras), footwork patterns, and graceful movements accompanied by rhythmic syllables and melodic phrases. The choreography may include elements of both nritta (pure dance) and nritya (expressive dance), allowing the dancer to convey devotion and reverence through movement and expression.

The content of Brahmanjali in Kuchipudi can vary, but it often includes verses or hymns praising Hindu deities or invoking divine blessings. Dancers may also incorporate storytelling elements or thematic references, depending on the specific context or theme of the performance.

Overall, Brahmanjali in Kuchipudi serves as an auspicious beginning to a dance recital, inviting the audience to participate in a spiritual journey through the artistry and devotion of the performer.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sbfIBbThags

Shabdam

 Shabdam

"Sabdam" (also spelled as "Shabdam") is a form of traditional Indian classical dance repertoire, particularly associated with Kuchipudi, a classical dance form from South India.

In Kuchipudi, a Sabdam is a composition that typically follows the Alarippu and Jathiswaram but precedes the Varnam within the sequence of items in a traditional Kuchipudi recital.

Sabdams are unique because they combine both nritta (pure dance movements) and abhinaya (expressive storytelling). They often depict devotional or romantic themes, with the dancer portraying different characters, moods, and emotions through facial expressions, hand gestures (mudras), and body movements.

Sabdams usually have a structured format that includes rhythmic passages (nritta), expressive passages (abhinaya), and sometimes interspersed with rhythmic syllables or jathi patterns. The music for Sabdams is typically composed in a specific raga (melodic framework) and tala (rhythmic cycle).

Overall, Sabdams play a vital role in a Kuchipudi performance, offering a balance between pure dance and expressive storytelling while showcasing the dancer's versatility and proficiency in both aspects of the art form.

Sabdas: 1.Krishna Sabdam 2.Ramayana Sabdam 3.Dasavathar Sabdam 4.Thuluva Rajendar Sabdam 5.Jhenuta Sabdam 6.Mandooka Sabdam 7.Prahlada Pattabhisheka Sabdam

1.Krishna Sabdam

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YbRX_cdTap8

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Wn0DR65adHY

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KgDj9l7oZBc

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KOTxy-JLpPw

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=D4sR1miWUMc

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=YT3RziRcptY

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L_851nayOqw

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wQbivDL_1IY

2.Ramayana Sabdam

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FVLNzsKKqY8

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G9MOEHgLCEI

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2RFN5iTXTo0

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=APYNzx9-ecQ

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lBHFNnvpoz8

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=DN7nHg8kCBE

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Slr9o30wuVM

3.Dasavathar Sabdam

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=R9a-thu2cKI

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4GDcyTUkevI

6.Mandooka Sabdam

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=SqwEUbms2BY

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hyhzMRDidfE

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FT1BTARdUhg

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=nPHE39FVnR4

https://myriadpatterns.medium.com/manduka-shabda-a-frogs-song-b32a1d6df317