Tandava Nritya is perhaps the most awed and feared dance forms in Hindu mythology. It represents the eternal cycle of creation, preservation and destruction.
Lord Shiva, who is considered as
Nataraja, the supreme lord of dance, usually performs this dance when in rage. It represents his role as the destructor. However this destruction represents regeneration, marking the beginning of a new cycle of creation, preservation and destruction.
Tandava Nritya has been immortalized through the classical Indian dance form of Bharatanatyam. This classical dance form depicts the various modes of Tandava Nritya. Among these, Ananda Tandava is the dance of joy while Rudra Tandava depicts the violent nature of the lord. Apart from these, there are other forms such as Tripura Tandava, Sandhya Tandava, Samara Tandava, Kaali Tandava, Uma Tandava and Gauri Tandava. These forms are known for their brisk and vigorous movements. They also incorporate a sense of grace, charm and rhythm.
Complementing the Tandava Nritya is the Lasya Nritya, a dance form attributed to Goddess Parvati, the consort of Lord Shiva. This feminine dance form, known for its gentle and graceful movements, is considered as the female counterpart of Tandava Nritya.
