Spatial manifestation of dance in panchasabha

Abstract

Architecture is a discipline that can include various other art forms within its conception, ideology, physical manifestation, and many other possible ways. Bharata’s aesthetic theory states that all art forms are relative and have a firm base in terms of their experience, both manifested and non-manifested. This thesis is an attempt to explore the relationship between performing art and functional art- classical dance and architecture. This relationship is explored with the case of the Panchasabhas or the Five Cosmic Dance Halls in Tamil Nadu. According to the Tamil Shaiva cult, there are five different temples in Tamil Nadu, where it is believed that Lord Shiva has performed His Cosmic Dance in various mythological contexts. These temples are collectively known as Panchasabhai, literally meaning the five cosmic dance halls (Pancha – Five and Sabhai- hall or council in Tamil). The five temples among the Panchasabhai are spread across the state of Tamil Nadu and the structures have evolved over different periods and were patronized by different dynasties. The five sabhas are named after five precious materials such as Ratina sabha (precious stone/ gem), Kanaka sabha (gold), Velli sabha (silver), Thamira sabha (copper), and Chitra sabha (painting). The names are derived from the material with which the idol of Nataraja has been cast in the respective temples to which the sabhas belong. The Panchasabhas are also associated with the five thandavas believed to have been performed by Shiva in these sites. Temples of Tamil Nadu were institutions in which there was a confluence of religion, beliefs, rituals, arts, politics, and architecture. Therefore the thesis primarily attempts to understand the concept of Panchasabha through multiple factors such as social conditions, religion, politics, and architecture. Thereby it establishes the significance of a sabha in the temples in which they are located. The Indian classical dance form of Bharatanatyam has its roots in the temples of Tamil country, where it was performed as an integral part of the daily and special rituals. Therefore the role and reflection of dance within a temple and its royal patronage are also dealt with to understand its manifestation within the built environment of the temple complex. The thesis is concerned with testing a hypothesis that is based on the inter relationship between two variables of dance and architecture, as manifested in the Panchasabhas or the Five 14 Spatial Manifestation Of Dance In Panchasabha: The Five Cosmic Dance Halls In Tamil Nadu Cosmic Dance Halls in Tamil Nadu. The significance of the sabhas within the Panchasabha temples and their role in contributing towards the integrity of the temple complex has been established as part of the research.