Model Answer
0 min readIntroduction
The ‘Tandava’ is a vigorous and dynamic dance form associated with Lord Shiva, representing the cosmic dance of creation and destruction. While popularly known through later textual and artistic representations, early Indian inscriptions provide crucial insights into its initial conceptualization and performance. These inscriptions, dating from the Gupta period onwards, reveal not just the dance’s religious significance but also its socio-cultural context, detailing the patronage received and the performers involved. Understanding Tandava through these primary sources offers a unique perspective on the evolution of Indian performing arts and religious beliefs.
Origins and Early References
The earliest clear references to Tandava are found in inscriptions from the Gupta period (4th-6th centuries CE). While the Natya Shastra of Bharata Muni (estimated 2nd century BCE – 2nd century CE) provides a theoretical framework for dance and drama, inscriptions offer practical evidence of its performance.
Inscriptional Evidence
1. Bhitari Inscription (Gupta Period, 6th Century CE)
The Bhitari inscription of Kumaragupta I, found in Uttar Pradesh, mentions the construction of a Shiva temple and the establishment of a dance hall (nritya-mandapa). Though it doesn’t explicitly detail the Tandava, the context suggests the performance of devotional dances, likely including early forms of Tandava, within the temple complex. This indicates royal patronage of dance and its association with Shaivism.
2. Aihole Inscription (Chalukya Dynasty, 7th Century CE)
The Aihole inscription of Pulakeshin II (634 CE) provides a more detailed account. It describes the construction of a temple dedicated to Tryambakesvara (Shiva) and mentions the presence of skilled dancers (nartakas) who performed various dances, including forms resembling Tandava. The inscription highlights the importance of dance in temple rituals and the recognition given to performers.
3. Badami Cave Inscriptions (Chalukya Dynasty, 6th-7th Century CE)
The Badami cave temples, particularly Cave 3, feature sculptures depicting dancing Shiva in various poses, which are interpreted as representations of Tandava. While the inscriptions themselves don’t directly describe the dance, the sculptural evidence corroborates the textual references and provides visual depictions of the dance’s movements and iconography. These sculptures show Shiva with multiple arms, symbolizing his cosmic power and control.
4. Tanjore Inscriptions (Chola Dynasty, 11th-13th Century CE)
Inscriptions from the Chola period, particularly those found in the Brihadeeswarar Temple at Tanjore, provide detailed information about the devadasis (temple dancers) who performed various dances, including Tandava. These inscriptions list the names of dancers, their skills, and the offerings made to them, demonstrating the institutionalization of dance within the temple system. The Chola inscriptions also mention the use of specific musical instruments and costumes during the performances.
Significance of Tandava in Early Inscriptions
- Religious Devotion: The inscriptions demonstrate that Tandava was primarily a devotional dance performed in temples dedicated to Shiva.
- Royal Patronage: Kings and rulers actively supported the construction of dance halls and provided patronage to dancers.
- Social Status of Dancers: The inscriptions reveal that dancers held a respectable position in society and were often associated with temples.
- Evolution of Form: The inscriptions suggest that Tandava evolved over time, with different dynasties and regions contributing to its development.
Conclusion
Early Indian inscriptions offer invaluable insights into the origins and evolution of the Tandava dance. They reveal that it was not merely a performance art but a deeply ingrained religious practice, patronized by royalty and performed by skilled dancers within the temple system. These inscriptions demonstrate the integral role of dance in early Indian society and its connection to the broader religious and cultural landscape, providing a tangible link to the artistic traditions of the past.
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