2021-12-06

A Complete Guide To Yoga and Indian Classical Dance

'World is a small place', and every one of us and everything in this world is in some way or the other connected. Curious to know why we started our discussion today with this proverb?

We all know how vast the BharathiyaSanskaris. We also know there are a lot of phenomena or concepts that are common among the various stories, Dance, music and art forms seen in the Indian Culture.

Indian Classical Dance and Yoga is one such concept that is connected or complement each other. Surprised? Let us explain how.

Yoga and Indian Classical Dance have Vedic roots and are found in the ancient texts Yogasutra written by Patanjali and Natyashastra by Bharatmuni. Both these have few similarities. Let us illustrate those for you all.

1. Physical Fitness: One of the significant similarities between Yoga and Indian Classical Dance would be physical fitness. All the Indian Classical Dance forms and Yoga asanas require agility, flexibility, stamina and balance. Both these activities allow an individual to attain the goal of physical fitness. For eg: the Karanas in the Natyasastra can only be performed at its fullest if the performer is in the depth of practice in Yoga Asanas.
2. Mental well-being: To perform well in our lives, we require to be physically and mentally healthy. And Yoga and Indian Classical Dance allows us to be mentally fit as well. These activities ensure mental well-being by reducing stress and being at peace and harmony with ourselves and our surroundings. Yogi and a Dance performer /Natya Yogi reach a state of trance or meditation while performing the respective Asanas or Adavus.
3. Gurukul: Traditionally, both the activities were taught by Guru or teacher in Gurukul or Schools and are based on the concept of Guru Bhakti. Yoga and Indian Classical Dance emphasise the Guru - ShishyaParampara or Teacher-Student Relationship.
4. Discipline: Achieving perfection in Yoga and Dance requires dedication and practice. And hence, they both instil discipline in an individual to attain perfection.
5. Hindu Mythology: The essence of Hindu mythology is weaved in both Yoga and Indian Classical Dance. Performers in the Indian kClassical Dance narrate mythology stories. Many concepts, themes, and names in Yoga are inspired by mythology. Another common factor between Yoga and Indian Classical Dance is Lord Shiva. In Yoga, Lord Shiva is revered as the Adi Yogi (the first yogi). Similarly, one of his forms, Nataraja, is worshipped as the Lord of Dance.

Some of the mudras from Yoga Shastra applied in our classical dance too highlighted by the scholar LateMunukuntlaSambhashivah are:

1. Gynaana Mudra (Knowledge Seal)

2.Vaayu Mudra (Wind Seal)

3. Pruthvee Mudra(Earth Seal)

4. Soorya Mudra (Sun Seal)

5. Shakthi Mudra (Little Energy Seal)

What we considered to be two different entities are so similar; interesting, isn't it? What is more interesting is the amount of recognition these two activities jof Indian Culture gained globally. In the last few decades, the number of people of different countries, religions who have imbibed the values and the concepts of Yoga and Indian Classical Dance has increased tremendously!

Did you know there is also a stream of practice called Dance Yoga or the Nritta Yoga? Yes, you read it correct! Dance Yoga is a unique concept where Asanas and Mudras are merged with Dance steps and rhythms to portray a mesmerizing creation!  We at Antara ensure that you, your kids, your loved ones learn Indian Classical Dance from the best Gurus and at the same time enjoy the benefits of Yoga! Call us now for further details and enroll yourself for a passion, music, dance, and fitness journey!