Question

In Bharatanatyam repertoire followed by Jatiswaram, in which item the melody/syllables is added to the movement?

• A. Varnam
• B. Shabdam
• C. Allaripu
• D. Tillana

Hint:

Think of the Bharatanatyam margam as a gradual unfolding. It starts with pure rhythm (Alarippu), adds melody (Jatiswaram), then adds meaning/lyrics (Shabdam), and finally combines all elements in a complex way (Varnam).

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks to identify the item in the traditional Bharatanatyam repertoire (margam) that comes after Jatiswaram and is the first to introduce lyrics (syllables) and abhinaya (expression).
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The typical sequence of a Bharatanatyam performance is:
1. Alarippu: An invocatory piece of pure dance (Nritta).
2. Jatiswaram: A more complex pure dance piece where melodic notes (swaras) are set to rhythmic patterns (jatis). It has melody but no lyrics.
3. Shabdam: This is the first item where lyrics (sahitya or syllables praising a deity or king) are introduced, along with Abhinaya (expressional dance).
4. Varnam: The centrepiece, a complex mix of Nritta and Abhinaya.
Therefore, Shabdam is the correct answer as it follows Jatiswaram and introduces lyrical content.
Step 3: Final Answer:
The item that follows Jatiswaram and adds lyrics/syllables is Shabdam.