KARANAS

Karanas refer to specific movements or poses that are an integral part of Bharathanatyam, an Indian classical dance form. Karanas are a set of 108 key transitional movements that connect various dance postures or positions and are used to depict stories, emotions, and themes in a dance performance. They are described in the ancient Indian dance treatise called the “Natya Shastra,” attributed to Sage Bharatha.

Karanas involve a combination of footwork, hand gestures(mudras), and body movement. Each karana is a complete and meaningful composition in itself, and they are employed to create intricate choreographic sequences in Bharathanatyam performances. These movements are not only aesthetically pleasing but also have symbolic and story telling significance.

Over the years, the exact understanding and execution of karanas have evolved and adapted within the framework of Bharathanataym, and different gurus and schools may have variations in their interpretational and use of karanas. Nevertheless, they remain a fundamental element of this dance form, showcasing the dancer’s skill, grace, and expressiveness. Learning and mastering karanas is an essential aspect of training in Bharathanatyam.