Bhagavata Mela

Bhagavata Mela

Bhagavata Mela is a traditional form of dance-drama that originated in the Tamil Nadu region of India. It is a unique blend of classical dance, music, and theatre, performed as a religious offering to the Hindu deity Lord Vishnu. This art form is particularly associated with the Thanjavur district and is celebrated for its devotional themes and intricate choreography.

History

The origins of Bhagavata Mela can be traced back to the 16th century during the rule of the Nayak dynasty in South India. It is believed that the art form was developed by the Telugu-speaking Brahmin community who migrated to Tamil Nadu. The Nayak rulers, known for their patronage of arts and culture, supported the development of Bhagavata Mela as a means of religious expression and entertainment.

Performance

Bhagavata Mela is traditionally performed during the annual festival of Narasimha Jayanti, which celebrates the birth of Lord Narasimha, an avatar of Vishnu. The performances are held in the precincts of temples, particularly in the village of Melattur, which is renowned for its Bhagavata Mela tradition.

The performance is characterized by its use of elaborate costumes, expressive abhinaya (acting), and classical Carnatic music. The stories depicted in Bhagavata Mela are primarily drawn from the Bhagavata Purana, focusing on the various avatars of Vishnu and their divine exploits.

Structure

A typical Bhagavata Mela performance consists of several acts, each depicting a different episode from the life of Vishnu. The performers, traditionally male, take on various roles, including female characters, and use a combination of dance, dialogue, and song to convey the narrative.

The music for Bhagavata Mela is provided by a live orchestra, which includes instruments such as the mridangam, violin, and flute. The lyrics are often in Telugu, reflecting the linguistic heritage of the performers.

Significance

Bhagavata Mela is not only a form of entertainment but also a spiritual offering. It is believed that the performance of these sacred stories brings blessings to the community and strengthens the bond between the devotees and the divine.

In recent years, efforts have been made to preserve and promote Bhagavata Mela as a cultural heritage. Organizations and cultural enthusiasts have been working to document the performances and train new generations of artists in this traditional art form.

See also

• Bharatanatyam
• Kathakali
• Yakshagana

References

• Venkataraman, Leela. Indian Classical Dance: Tradition in Transition. Roli Books, 2002.
• Subramanian, V.K. Art Shrines of Ancient India. Abhinav Publications, 2003.

External links

• Official Bhagavata Mela website