Melattur, Tamil Nadu - Bharatanatyam

A classical Bharatanatyam performance is an indispensable part of a Bhagavatha Mela. However, a unique style of Bharatanatyam is practised by the Melattur dancers. The distinct features of the Melattur style of Bharatanatyam are:

1. Natural (spontaneous) and highly expressive abhinaya
2. Largest amplitude of movements, which requires a higher degree of flexibility
3. Extensive use of kshepa (throw of limbs) and recaka.
4. Emphasis on sringara bhakti
5. Emphasis on crisp adavus, accuracy of jathis/ gathis,
6. Fluid variations of patterned korvais
7. Dramatic elements (characterisation)
8. Original methods of application of principles of "loka dharmi" and "natya dharmi"