Estimated reading time: 6 minutes
Mandalas, as described in the ancient Sanskrit text Natya Shastra, are foundational elements of Indian classical dance forms.
They consist of deliberate combinations of foot movements (cārīs) and arm gestures (āṅgika).
Mandalas are instrumental in conveying the theory of rasa, evoking emotions and sentiments in performances.
Classified as aerial and earthly, Mandalas are pivotal to the art of movement.
They hold cultural and historical significance, reflecting ancient India’s rich traditions in Natya.
Modern dance forms like Kathak and Bharatanatyam continue to incorporate these timeless Mandala techniques.
एताश्चार्यो मया प्रोक्ता यथावच्छस्त्रमोक्षणे ।
चारीसंयोगजानीह मण्डलानि निबोधत ॥ १॥
etāścāryo mayā proktā yathāvacchastramokṣaṇe |
cārīsaṃyogajānīha maṇḍalāni nibodhata || 1||
Meaning:
These Cārīs (movement patterns) have now been described by me as they relate to the use of weapons. Now, understand the Mandalas (circular patterns) which arise from the combination of these Cārīs.
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What Are Mandalas?
Mandalas are codified movement sequences formed by combining Cārīs ( there are 32 charis). They define how a dancer occupies space whether in aerial leaps or grounded footwork. The Natyashastra categorizes them into two types:
- Ākāśa / Akasha (Aerial) Mandalas – Dynamic, leaping movements.
- Bhūmi / Bhumi (Earthly) Mandalas – Firm, grounded footwork.
Each Mandala serves a dramatic purpose. It can be martial sequences, divine storytelling, or pure rhythmic expression.
Why They Matter
Mandalas (Maṇḍalas),
- Guide the dancer’s spatial awareness
- Represent narrative shifts
- Symbolize internal states (like balance, chaos, flow)
- Serve martial or ritualistic needs
They create rasa through āṅgika abhinaya. They are extensions of both drama and warfare.
The 10 Aerial (Ākāśa) Mandalas – Intro
These Mandalas involve jumps, turns, and expansive movements. They embody agility and grace.
- Atikrānta – A wide, leaping stride.
- Vicitra – Intricate, unexpected turns.
- Lalitasañcara – Delicate, floating movements.
- Sūcividdha – Sharp, needle-like precision.
- Daṇḍapāda – Staff-like, linear jumps.
- Vihṛta – Playful, irregular motions.
- Alāta (Alātaka) – Circular, firebrand-like spins.
- Vāmaviddha – Diagonal, asymmetrical leaps.
- Lalita – Effortless, graceful transitions.
- Krānta – Forceful, conquering strides.
Example: Alāta Mandala mimics a whirling firebrand (Alāta means “fire”). In Odissi, this appears in fast chakkars (spins), while Kathak uses it in chakkardar tihais.
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The 10 Earthly (Bhūmi) Mandalas – Intro
These are rooted, stable, and often used in combat sequences or vigorous footwork.
- Bhramara – Bee-like, swirling steps.
- Āskandita – Stomping, attacking motions.
- Āvarta – Revolving, returning to origin.
- Samotsarita – Pushing forward aggressively.
- Eḍakākrīḍīta – Playful, swaying like a swing.
- Aḍḍita – Firm, unmovable stance.
- Śakaṭāsya – Cart-wheel-like movement.
- Adhyardha (Adhyardhaka) – Half-turn with force.
- Piṣṭakuṭṭa – Crushing, grinding motion.
- Cāṣagata – Swift, bird-like footwork.
Example: Bhramara Mandala appears in Bharatanatyam’s Nrittam sequences, where the dancer mimics a bee’s circular flight.
How to Teach or Learn Mandalas
Step-by-Step Practice Guide
- Isolate the Cārīs: Practice individual Cārīs first. Don’t jump into Mandalas.
- Layer Movement: Add torso and hand gestures gradually.
- Use Visual Cues: Draw circles on floor. Practice within them.
- Align With Rhythm: Each Mandala has a beat signature. Learn that.
- Contextualize: Use narratives or bhavas to place it in performance.
Common Mistakes
- Over-rotating. Keep the spine aligned.
- Forgetting transitions. Smooth entry and exit matter.
- Flat feet. Keep dynamic pressure.
Frequently Asked Questions
The Natya Shastra of the Indian Subcontinent groups Mandalas into two main types. The first type is Aerial Mandalas, such as Atikrānta and Lalitasañcara. These feature upward and flowing movements. The second type is Earthly Mandalas, like Bhramara and Piṣṭakuṭṭa. These focus on grounded steps. Both types add depth to storytelling in Indian dance forms.
Mandalas make storytelling better by supporting the theory of rasa. Through the use of cārīs and āṅgika, they change deep emotions into clear movements. Dance forms like Kathak use symbolic Mandalas to create a visual rhythm. This added rhythm improves both theatre and religious stories. Explore Nataraja’s tandava to feel the essence.
Absolutely. Mandalas, which come from the Natya Shastra from southeast asia, can be used in today’s dance shows. Their grace and meaning fit nicely with modern styles. This is clear in Kathak and new takes on classical Sanskrit dance.
Yes! Check out our glossary and resources section. Many resources focus on Sanskrit terms. This helps keep the Hindu tradition alive and makes it easier for beginners to learn.
Mastering Mandalas, as described in the Natya Shastra, takes years of hard work and training. This technique is based on Hindu tradition and involves using Sanskrit. It requires strict discipline and a commitment to accurate movements and storytelling. This process celebrates art that has stood the test of time.
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To Sum Up: Circles Within Circles
To master Mandalas is to master space. Not just the stage, but the internal world of the character. Every turn, every step, every spiral holds meaning.
When done right, the audience doesn’t just see you dance.
They feel the story unfold in circles.
Let your Mandalas speak.
Let them roar, whisper, cry, fly.
That’s their power. That’s their legacy.
About Natya-Shastra.in
At Natya-Shastra.in, our mission is to serve as a gateway to the illustrious world of the NāṭyaŚāstra. We offer insights, resources, and a platform to delve deeper into the nuances of Indian performing arts.
Also, we aim to bring forth the richness of this ancient text, shedding light on the profound wisdom it holds and its everlasting influence on various artistic traditions.
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NatyaShastra Glossary: Head over to the Natyashastra Glossary page to know the meaning behind Sanskrit terms used in the articles.
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Knowledge Source & References: Inspired by ancient Natyashastra scriptures, open to interpretation.
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