Bharatanatyam is a classical Indian dance form originating in the South Indian state of Tamil Nadu.

'Bha' - Bhavam (means expression), 'Ra' - Ragam (means music), 'Ta - Talam (means beat or rhythm) and Natyam (means dance) in Tamil.

performed by both male females.

Bharatnatyam is the manifestation of the ancient idea of the celebration of the eternal universe through the celebration of the beauty of the material body. Bharatnatyam is considered to be a fire-dance the mystic manifestation of the metaphysical element of fire in the human body It is one of the five major styles (one for each element) that include Odissi (element of water), Kuchipudi (element of earth), Mohiniattam(element of air) and Kathakali (element of sky or aether). The movements of an authentic Bharatanatyam dancer resemble the movements of a dancing flame. Jewelry Bharatanatyam dancers wear a unique set of jewelry known as "Temple Jewelry" during the performance.

The modern costumes are deeply symbolic, The accompanying music is in the Carnatic style of South India. Tamil, Telugu, Kannada and Sanskrit are traditionally used in Bharatanatyam. U hav 2 follow basic 7 steps 2 learn bharatanatyam

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x4aUDTTr34s