• Nandhini Ashok

Before delvinge into the history of the dance form of Bharatanāṭyam and its evolution, it would not be out of place to first understand a related concept of “Communication”. Communication is the process of generating meaning by way of sending and receiving verbal (making sounds- high pitch /low pitch) and non-verbal (symbols /signs/paintings) messages. The conversion of symbols to sound to verbal communication and its usage is believed to have developed way back during Sage Nārada’s time for passing on messages from one God to another. In all historical references, Sage Nārada is seen as one of the most potent communicators who played the role of the divine messenger, maintaining a constant link between the deva-s and humans. This could probably have marked the beginning of verbal language or speech. Over centuries, the need to preserve and record verbal messages or stories gave rise to the origin of written communication. Manuscripts began to be drafted around three thousand five hundred BCE and this conversion of messages from oral to written marked an evolution in the history of communication. Many innovative methods developed along the way as communication techniques grew and evolved. During the era of the kings, drums were beaten on special occasions, such as during wars or celebration or when kings wanted to address their subjects. Drumming patterns varied according to the message that needed to be passed on by the drummer. In fact, drums were also used as a long-distance communication method for sending signals across to neighboring villages, tribes, or groups. Artistic mediums of communication like dance, art, literature and music were used for conveying social, cultural and political messages during the era of kingship. The Guru Śiśhya Paramparā gained importance as most kings were patrons of art and culture and treated the guru-s with utmost respect. The art became a powerful but subtle medium of communication. Moving with times, modernisation brought in specialisation across fields and newer mediums of communication were developed. Skill enhancement and technological advancement gradually revolutionized communication. The introduction of modern means of communication like print, radio, television, and the Internet changed the communication scenario drastically, taking it from simple basic exchange of messages to a roll out of information and an interactive platform that is today bringing together people from across the globe.

Communication, Technology, Guru Śiśhya Paramparā , Social media.

"A Historical Analysis of Dance and Transformation in its Teaching Methodology from 17th Century to Early 21st Century", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.9, Issue 8, page no.c361-c367, August-2022, Available :http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2208239.pdf

"A Historical Analysis of Dance and Transformation in its Teaching Methodology from 17th Century to Early 21st Century", International Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research (www.jetir.org | UGC and issn Approved), ISSN:2349-5162, Vol.9, Issue 8, page no. ppc361-c367, August-2022, Available at : http://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR2208239.pdf