Tribhanga

Bhutesvara Yakshis Mathura reliefs 2nd century CE front

Tribhanga is a traditional dance pose that is significant in the Indian classical dance forms, particularly in Odissi, Bharatanatyam, and Mohiniyattam. The term "Tribhanga" translates to "three bends" in Sanskrit, referring to the body's posture, which bends at the neck, waist, and knee, giving it a graceful, S-shaped form. This pose is emblematic of Indian classical dance's emphasis on expressiveness, grace, and the sculptural beauty of dance.

Etymology and Symbolism

The word Tribhanga is derived from two Sanskrit words: Tri, meaning three, and Bhanga, meaning bend. Thus, the term literally means "three bends," which is a direct reference to the three parts of the body that bend in this pose: the neck, the waist, and the knee. This posture is often associated with the depiction of Hindu deities, especially Krishna, who is frequently illustrated in this pose, symbolizing his playful nature and divine beauty. The Tribhanga pose is not only a testament to the physical agility and skill of the dancer but also embodies the fusion of the material and spiritual worlds, expressing the ultimate unity of the body, mind, and soul.

Application in Dance

In the realm of Indian classical dance, Tribhanga is a cornerstone pose that showcases the dancer's ability to express complex emotions and narratives through body language. Each of the classical dance forms that incorporate Tribhanga, such as Odissi, Bharatanatyam, and Mohiniyattam, brings its own unique interpretation and stylistic nuances to the pose.

Odissi

In Odissi, Tribhanga is a quintessential stance that is often used to convey the ethos of the dance form, which is known for its fluidity, grace, and expressiveness. Odissi dancers skillfully use Tribhanga to depict mythological stories, devotional themes, and the eternal play of the divine with the mortal.

Bharatanatyam

In Bharatanatyam, Tribhanga is employed more subtly, integrated into the dance's intricate footwork, hand gestures, and facial expressions. The pose is used to enhance the narrative and emotional depth of the performance, connecting the dancer with the divine.

Mohiniyattam

Mohiniyattam, which hails from Kerala, uses Tribhanga to convey feminine grace and the enchanting beauty of the divine feminine. The gentle, swaying movements of Mohiniyattam, combined with the Tribhanga pose, create a mesmerizing effect that is both ethereal and grounding.

Cultural Significance

Tribhanga is more than just a dance pose; it is a cultural symbol that represents the rich heritage of Indian classical dance. It embodies the synthesis of the spiritual and the temporal, the human and the divine, reflecting the deep philosophical underpinnings of Indian culture. The pose is a celebration of the human body's beauty and the transcendental experience of dance as a medium of storytelling and spiritual expression.

Conclusion

Tribhanga stands as a testament to the sophistication and depth of Indian classical dance. Through its three bends, it tells stories of gods and mortals, of love and devotion, and of the eternal quest for the divine. It is a pose that challenges dancers to embody grace, strength, and emotion, making it a pivotal element of the Indian classical dance tradition.