Bharathanatyam is a form of
Indian classical dance that originated in the temples of
Tamil Nadu. It was described in the treatise
Natya Shastra by
Bharata around the beginning of the common era. Bharata Natyam is known for its grace, elegance, purity, tenderness, expression and sculpturesque poses. Lord
Shiva in his Nataraja form is considered the God of this dance. Today, it is one of the most popular and widely performed dance styles and is practiced by male and female dancers all over the world, although it is more commonly danced by women.