The moment of explaining shifting ideologies and its impact in Bharatanatyam form, content and structure, is a moment of convergence, of past and present, dancer and society. This is a convergence so enduring that despite the pain and struggle the tradition continues to exert its influence on the individual self and society.

This instructional book briefly sketches the essence of dance, the why and what of dance and the influence of Samkhya philosophical system on the artistic vision. The socio-cultural context of Bharatanatyam and the factors that on the one hand firmly anchored its continuity and on the other, heralded its transition from temple precincts to the proscenium stage is followed with an explanation of the repertoire as performed today, and the basic concepts that guide its performance. The detailed illustrations of hand gestures with English transliteration and pictured feet movements are a useful guide for students grappling with existing ambiguities.