Bharatanatyam - Salutation

Salutation/ Pranam

The salutation in Bharathanatyam is called Thatti Kumudu (to tap and salute). The  ancient practice of performing the salutation before and after dancing is observed in all parts of India.

1.The salutation is done by tapping the feet in samapada (feet together) with the shikara hasta in both hands, in front of the chest.

2.The practitioner then turns out her toes ,sits in full mandi and brings the hands (in shikhara hasta ) from the shoulders, touches the floor and raises the palms to her eyes, paying her respects to Mother Earth.




3. Then he/she performs the three namaskars:-

1. On top of the head- To salute the God
2. In fornt of the forehead- to salute the Guru
3. In front of the chest- to salute the audience 

It is also a pratice to to pay respects to the  thattukazhi ( rhythm block and stick) or the cymbals.

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