Recommended tools to learn Indian Classical Dance cover image

This page brings together learning tools, books, and practice resources that support the study of Indian classical performance arts.

Every recommendation here is chosen for its usefulness in learning, teaching, or deepening artistic discipline.

Check out these curated books, learning tools, and practice resources inspired by Natyashastra for Indian classical dance, theatre, and performance.


Books and Study Material

Foundational texts and reference books are essential for serious practice. These resources support both beginners and advanced learners.

  1. Bharata Muni's Natyashastra: A Treatise On Ancient Indian Dramaturgy And Histrionics

  2. An authoritative two-volume edition of the classical Natyashastra, the foundational Sanskrit treatise on drama, dance, music, and performance attributed to sage Bharata Muni. Perfect for serious learners, researchers, and lovers of Indian arts.
  3. Nandikeshwar's Abhinaya Darpanam, Revised & Enlarged

  4. A classic treatise on Indian dance and performance, this revised edition of Abhinaya Darpanam.
    • Authoritative guide on classical dance gestures and expressions.
    • Based on an ancient Sanskrit text by Nandikeshwar, with translation and notes.
    • Helpful for understanding angika and expressive principles.
  5. Therapeutic Advantages of Bharatanatyam Dance (Research Book)

  6. A thoughtful exploration of Bharatanatyam as more than art. A practice with emotional and therapeutic benefits.

    • Research-based insights into dance therapy benefits
    • Discusses physical, mental, and emotional effects of Bharatanatyam
    • Useful for dancers, educators, therapists, and students
    • Concise and easy to read
  7. Bharatanatyam: How To… by Jayalakshmi Eshwar

  8. A clear, detailed guide to Bharatanatyam basics and techniques. Written for learners and teachers, it breaks down the classical dance step by step with simple explanations and hundreds of illustrations.
  9. Bharata Natyam Adavus by Gayathri Keshavan

  10. A clear, structured guide to the basic steps (adavus) of Bharatanatyam, rooted in the traditional Pandanallur teaching lineage.
    • Explains foundational Bharatanatyam adavus with clear diagrams and steps.
    • Highlights execution technique for jumps, stretches, turns, and more.
    • Ideal for beginners and serious students.
    • Useful reference for teachers and performers alike.

Practice essentials

Regular practice needs reliable tools that do not distract the body or mind. These essentials are selected for comfort, durability, and suitability for classical training.

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Ghungroo Red Pad 3 Line

Red brass ghungroo anklets with 60 high-quality four-petal bells (3-line). Suitable for all Indian classical dance forms. Durable, well-crafted, and designed for a clear, resonant sound. Model: Ghungroo-60D. Size: 21 × 6 × 9 cm.
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3 Line Brass Anklets Bells (Ghungroo)

Brass 3-line ghungroo anklets designed for Classical dance. Each pair includes 20 bells with 10 mm brass beads, giving a bright and steady sound. Dimensions: length 19 cm, width 9 cm, bell size 2 × 1.5 cm.
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Ghungroo Anklets Bells (1 Line Pad, Yellow, Pair)

Yellow brass ghungroo anklets with 1-line pads, featuring 10 four-petal bells per line (20 bells per pair). Suitable for all Indian classical dance forms. Criss-cross chain design for a secure fit. Ideal for young dancers up to 8 years.
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Ghungroo White Cotton String Ankle Bells

Handcrafted brass ghungroos with white cotton strings for a traditional look. Each bell is 1.6 cm, creating a clear, balanced tone. The set includes 200 bells total (100 per string).

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Red Blue Silk Bharatanatyam Costume

Ready-to-wear 6-piece Bharatanatyam costume in art silk brocade. Smooth pleats open well in araimandi and muzhumandi.

Crafted by experienced tailors for comfort and durability. Includes a 4-inch margin for size adjustments.

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Pink Green Silk Bharatanatyam Costume

Pre-stitched 6-piece Bharatanatyam set in art silk. Elegant pleats, comfortable fit, and expert craftsmanship.

Suitable for stage, festivals, and arangetrams. Comes with a 4-inch adjustment margin.


Teaching and classroom aids

Teaching and self-observation are integral to growth. These learning tools support clarity, repetition, and reflection.

  1. Bharatanatyam 6 inch X 9 inch Ruled 120 Pages

  2. A thoughtful notebook inspired by Bharatanatyam. Perfect for dancers, students, teachers, and lovers of Indian classical arts.

    • Dance class notes and rehearsals
    • Abhinaya ideas and choreography sketches
    • Personal journaling or creative writing
    • Cultural or classical art studies
  3. Bharatanatyam practice notebook | 120 pages | 6×9

  4. A simple practice journal made for Indian classical dancers. Designed to support daily training and reflection.
    • Bharatanatyam-focused practice journal
    • Space for notes, corrections, and progress
    • Useful for students, teachers, and performers
    • Ideal for daily sadhana and class tracking

About Natya-Shastra.in

At Natya-Shastra.in, our mission is to serve as a gateway to the illustrious world of the Natyashastra. 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. We try to shed light on the profound wisdom it holds and its everlasting influence on various artistic traditions.


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Disclaimer: 

Affiliate Links: Some links earn us a commission (at no cost to you). We only recommend helpful products.

NatyaShastra Glossary: Head over to the Natyashastra Glossary page to know the meaning behind Sanskrit terms used in the articles.

Images & Videos: Representational only, not exact depictions.

Knowledge Source & References: Inspired by ancient Natyashastra scriptures, open to interpretation.