Bharathanatyam is a classical dance form originated in South India.

 

Religious themes and spiritual ideas are the core components of the dance form.

 

The Natyashastra enunciates 'Natya' as the Fifth Veda:

'The knowledge from Rig Veda, music from Sama Veda, the art of expression from Yajur Veda and the theory of Rasa from Atharvana Veda are taken. For the benefit of the generations to come, I create this fifth Veda.'​

​​

​​The sole purpose of 'Natya' is clearly established by scripture, practice and tradition as a 'Bhakti Marga', a path of devotion.