MARGAM
Traditional Bharatanatyam repertoire

The traditional structure of a solo Bharatanatyam recital, which was established in the 18th century, consists of a coherent progression of independent dances arranged in a specific order to perfectly display all the components of the dance form. This suite of dances is called a MARGAM.

Opening with a dance of invocation to set the mood and invite the Lord's blessings, a traditional recital proceeds next to Jatiswaram, which introduces the audience to the pure dance technique of Bharatanatyam. Next follows Shabdam, a story-telling dance that introduces the art of expression, or abhinaya. Technique and expression combine in the Varnam. At thirty minutes or more in length, it is the centerpiece of a solo recital. Following an intermission, the audience is treated to several slower expressive dances (padams, kirtanams and javalis). The tempo then builds to a climax in the Thillana, a fast-paced, exciting dance featuring brilliant footwork that leaves the audience in a happy, upbeat mood.

Typically, a dancer selects pieces that present a well-balanced program depicting various moods, deities and languages, but it is possible to construct a program that highlights a particular language (i.e. Tamil, Telugu, Kannada, Sanskrit, etc.) or a particular deity (Shiva, Krishna, Rama or Devi). Monica always builds a Margam concert after consultation with the sponsor.