Culture Hub

Bharata natyam- the oldest classical dance traditions in India

Bharata natyam- the oldest classical dance traditions in India

Bharata natyam, (Sanskrit: “Bharata’s dancing”) also previously called Sadhir Attam, is a major form of Indian classical styles of India, the others being kuchipudi, kathak, kathakali, manipuri, and odissi. It is indigenous to the Tamil Nadu region and prevalent in southern India. Bharata natyam serves the expression of Hindu religious themes and devotions, and its techniques and terminology have been traced back to ancient treatises such as the Natya-shastra, by the Brahman sage and priest Bharata. Bharata natyam was originally performed exclusively by female temple dancers and was not brought to the stage for public performance until about 1930.

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Cheriyal Paintings – A colorful story telling scroll from Hyderabad, Telangana.

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Cheriyal Paintings – A colorful story telling scroll from Hyderabad, Telangana.

India's rich heritage and culture has been fascinating the people around the world since ages. Traditional art forms and painting styles of India are celebrated worldwide. The practice of storytelling in India is historically rich and rooted in various communities across the nation but it is perhaps at its most prolific in folk traditions One such art form is Cheriyal Scroll painting. Cheriyal is a small village located almost 100 km from Hyderabad in Telangana’s Warangal district. Hence one can easily make out that this painting style find its roots here.

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The birth of the Indian Monalisa in Indian Arts and Culture

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The birth of the Indian Monalisa in Indian Arts and Culture

Indian paintings can be broadly classified into murals and miniatures. Murals are the large works that you see on the walls of Ajanta Caves and places of worship like the Kailashnath temple. Miniature paints are paintings done on small pieces of cloth or paper. The Pala's of Bengal were the pioneers of miniature painting in India, and they introduced it between 9th-10th century. The art form represented the way of living at the time: the practices of the society, the people and the political systems. The art of Miniature painting reached its glory during the Mughal rule (16th – 18th century).

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Lockdown Culture

In an effort to keep my artistic and cultural life alive I’ve gathered together some resources that I can enjoy whilst isolated from the art communities I love. Whilst the prospect of a Netflix binge is fine I think I shall need some wider art and culture in my life  – plus some practical things to do away from a screen. 1. Watch ‘Wind In The Willows’ In the midst of the coronavirus outbreak, the producers of the West End production of ‘The Wind in the Willows’ will stream the show online for free, though ask for a small donation that...

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Art as a Therapy

Art as a Therapy

Art – no matter whether you choose to create it yourself or simply observe and enjoy it – is a relaxing and inspiring activity for many people. It is a great way to express your emotions without words, process complex feelings and find relief. You don’t necessarily have to see a therapist in order to experience some of the therapeutic benefits of artistic expression. There are many simple activities you can try from the comfort of your home such as art journaling, sketching, making collages, sculpting with clay, etc. It doesn’t matter what media you choose. The only thing that matters is that you feel comfortable using it.

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