The Mime of Expressions - Paperback

by Anushka Jalan (Author)

What are expressions? Can dance help us to reveal our suppressed emotions? How can dance, especially Bharatanatyam, as an expression help people? This informative book gives a brief insight into the most famous classical dances namely Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kuchipudi, Kathakali, Manipuri, Mohiniattam, Odissi and Sattriya.

Focusing mainly on Bharatanatyam, this book provides an insight into the rich cultural heritage of Indian Mudras and Rasa and Bhava, and the transformative effects of these forms of expression. These aspects of Bharatanatyam give a clear understanding of how a dance form can be used as a source of non-verbal communication to express thoughts and emotions. Weaving a story using various hand, eye and body movements, Bharatanatyam has helped people find their true selves, moving them out of their shells.

People have used this dance form as a therapy to overcome depression, giving them positive outlook in life, healing them physically, mentally and emotionally. The book beautifully illustrates the incredible variety and versatility of the expressions that play an important role in the traditional Indian classical dance forms. It is must read for students studying expressions and practicing Bharatanatyam and who also want to understand dance as a therapy.

Author Biography

The face is the mirror of the mind, and eyes without speaking confess the secrets of the heart.

- St. Jerome

Anushka Jalan is a class ten student of Pathways School, Gurugram. She is an avid basketball player, loves trekking, watching horror movies and listening to music. Anushka has been an eccendentesiast by nature. At the age of ten, she started attending Bharatanatyam classes and discovered a medium to express herself, boost her confidence and make her believe in herself. What was once a hobby became a passion and made her an author with her debut informative book The Mime of Expressions. She has expressed her feelings through this book and wants to set an example for all those who are trying to find their hidden selves.