The Opening Prayer of Bharatanatyam: 'Aangikam Bhuvanam Yasyan'

The opening prayer or sloka of Bharatanatyam, a classical Indian dance form, is a profound verse dedicated to Lord Shiva. The dhyana sloka or meditation verse from Abhinaya Darpana of Nandikeswara provides a deep spiritual connection to the dance and its divine inspiration. Let's explore the meaning and significance of this verse:

Breaking Down the Sloka

The sloka is:

Aangikam Bhuvanam Yasyan Vachikam Sarva vangmayam
N Aharyam Chandra tara din Tam Vande
Saatvikam Shivam

Let us break this sloka into parts for easier understanding:

Aangikam - Body Bhuvanam - Universe Yasya - Whose Vachikam - Speech Sarva - All Vangmayam - Languages Sound Aaharyam - Ornaments Chandra - Moon Tara - Stars Aadi - Etc. Tam - That Vande - Bow Saatvikam - Pure Shivam - Lord Shiva

Translating and Understanding the Sloka:

Whose bodily movement is the entire Universe Whose speech is the language of the Universe Whose ornaments are the moon and the stars Him we bow to the pure serene Lord Shiva

Significance of the Dhyana Sloka in Bharatanatyam

The dhyana sloka serves as an opening prayer for dancers performing Bharatanatyam, invoking divine inspiration and reverence for the dance form. Abhinaya Darpana, the treatise written by Nandikesvara, is a comprehensive guide to the symbolism, gestures, and theoretical basis of Bharatanatyam.

Nata Rajate, the Lord of Dance, is praised in the dhyana sloka, recognizing the profound relationship between dance and spirituality. This verse reflects the belief that dance and its performance are a form of devotion and offer a channel for spiritual transcendence.

Conclusion

The dhyana sloka of Bharatanatyam, 'Aangikam Bhuvanam Yasyan,' encapsulates the essence of this classical Indian dance form. It serves as a powerful reminder of the divine inspiration behind the movements and gestures, making it an essential part of the dance tradition. As dancers, we bow to this sacred verse, embodying the spirit of purity, serenity, and reverence in our practice.

Further Reading

To learn more about Bharatanatyam and its spiritual significance, consider exploring the following resources:

The treatise Abhinaya Darpana by Nandikesvara Bharatanatyam performances and tutorials on YouTube Articles and books on the spiritual aspects of Indian classical dances