MA Performing Arts (Bharata Natyam) – GI517
1. Background and Objectives
Bharata Natyam is one of the main classical dance forms of South India. It uses movement as a
mode of human and artistic expression. This post graduate programme in Bharata Natyam aims
at developing further the learners’ knowledge, skills and attitudes in the field. This training will
lead them to develop their capabilities and dispositions to be engaged professional educators or
dancers.
Successful candidates, at this level should show virtuosity in performance, a high standard of
technique and a sound knowledge and understanding of the Bharata Natyam genre, including a
critical appreciation of reference and context.
At this level of the programme, a greater degree of personal interpretation is encouraged and the
learner is expected to show the potential to communicate effectively with an audience.
This Programme also promotes the ethos of key skills, especially the improvement of one’s own
learning and performance through self and peer assessment, problem solving and working with
others which are intrinsic to the dance form.
The specific objectives of the MA Performing Arts(Bharata Natyam) are:
• Impart the practical skills which will enhance creativity in choreography and
performance.
• Develop competence and artistry in, and communication through the Bharata Natyam
technique
• Integrate the experience of performance and an understanding of the relevant music and
literature in the Bharata Natyam repertoire
• Equip the students with necessary skills and techniques for innovative research in the
field of dance.
2.
General Entry Requirements
Successful completion of an undergraduate degree with:
3.
• At least a second class or 50% whichever is applicable or
• A GPA not less than 2.5 out of 4 or equivalent, from a recognized
higher education institution or
• Alternative qualifications acceptable to the University of Mauritius/
Mahatma Gandhi Institute
Programme Requirements
B.A (Hons) Performing Arts (Bharata Natyam) with Education, B.A (Hons) Performing
Arts (Bharata Natyam), a Degree in Performing Arts (Bharata Natyam) or equivalent
qualifications acceptable to UOM/MGI.
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4.
Programme Duration
The duration of the Graduate Programme should normally not exceed 4 years (8 semesters)
and in any case (under Flexible Learning Programme) not 7 years (14 semesters).
Normal (P/T)
4 Semesters
4 Semesters
2 Semesters
Master’s Degree:
Postgraduate Diploma:
Postgraduate Certificate:
5.
Maximum (P/T)
8 Semesters
8 Semesters
4 Semesters
Credits per Semester
As per University Regulations
6.
Minimum credits required for the awards:
-
Masters Degree
Postgraduate Diploma
Postgraduate Certificate
42 Credits
27 Credits
15 Credits
Breakdown as Follows:
(Minimum)
Core Taught Modules
Master’s Degree:
Postgraduate Diploma:
Postgraduate Certificate:
Dissertation
27 credits
27 credits
12 credits
12 credits
-
Electives/
Optional Modules
3 credits
3 credits
7. Assessment
All modules will carry 100 marks and will be assessed as follows unless otherwise
specified:
•
•
Assessment will be based on Written Examinations of 3-hour duration carrying 70% of total marks and
Continuous Assessment carrying 30% of total marks.
Continuous assessment will be based on seminars/presentations/assignments/journals/class tests.
•
There is no level attached to modules, i.e. each module carries its credit value.
•
For a student to pass a module, an overall total of 40% for combined Continuous Assessment (CA) and
Written Examination (WE) components would be required, without minimum thresholds within the
individual Continuous Assessment and Written Examination components. The same criteria will apply
for modules being assessed jointly.
•
Assessment for practical examinations (Viva-Voce and Demonstration) with their time duration and
weightings of each component are clearly spelt out under each of the module overview in part IV of the
outline syllabus.
•
Assessment for Elective module will be based on a 100% coursework mode.
•
Assessment for dissertation will include a Viva Voce conducted by a panel including the Supervisor
and the Moderator.
Submission Deadlines for Dissertation:
•
•
1st draft end of July in the final year
Final copy: Last working day of August in the final year
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8. List of Modules
Module Name
CODE
CORE MODULES
Hrs/Wk
L+P
Credits
MABN 6101
Nritta
1+4
3
MABN 6102
Vaishnavism and Shaivism in Indian
classical dance
3+0
3
MABN 6203
Choreography and compositional work I
1+4
3
MABN 6204
Bharatarnava and Sangeet Ratnakar
3+0
3
MABN 7109
Nritya I
1+4
3
MABN 7110
Literature, Traditional Theatre and Dance
3+0
3
MABN 7211
Choreography and Compositional work II
1+4
3
MABN 7212
Nritya II
1+4
3
MABN 7213
Dances of South East Asia
3+0
3
-
12
DISSERTATION
MABN 6000
Dissertation
ELECTIVES
MABN 6205
Aesthetics (Indian and Western)
3+0
3
MABN 6206
Iconography and Sculpture related to
Indian Classical Dance
3+0
3
MABN 6207
Iconography and Sculpture related to
Indian Classical Dance
1+4
3
MABN 6208
South Indian Literature related to Bharata
Natyam
3+0
3
Note: Students will be required to submit their choice of electives in order of priority by the
middle of Semester I of year 1.
The University/MGI reserves the right not to offer a given elective module if the critical number of
students is not attained and/or for reasons of resource constraints.
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Programme Plan - MA Performing Arts (Bharata Natyam)
YEAR 1 (Semester 1)
Code
Module Name
Hrs /Wk
L+P
Credits
MABN 6101
Nritta
1+4
3
MABN 6102
Vaishnavism and Shaivism in Indian
Classical Dance
3+0
3
MABN 6000
Dissertation
-
-
YEAR 1 (Semester 2)
MABN 6203
Choreography and Compositional Work I
1+4
3
MABN 6204
Bharatarnava
3+0
3
3+0
3
3+0
3
1+4
3
3+0
3
Hrs/Wk
L+P
Credits
Electives - Choose one from:
MABN 6205
MABN 6206
MABN 6207
MABN 6208
Aesthetics (Indian and Western)
Iconography and sculpture related to Indian
Classical Dance
Music for Bharata Natyam
South Indian Literature related to Bharata
Natyam
YEAR 2 (Semester 1)
Code
Module Name
MABN 7109
Nritya I
1+4
3
MABN 7110
Literature, Traditional Theatre and Dance
3+0
3
YEAR 2 (Semester 2)
MABN 7211
Choreography and Compositional work II
1+4
3
MABN 7212
Nritya II
1+4
3
MABN 7213
Dances of South East Asia
3+0
3
4
MABN 6000
Dissertation
-
12
10. Outline Syllabus
Year I
Semester I
MABN 6101 - Nritta
This module deals with the Nritta compositions focusing on the abstract and pure dance aspects,
Jatiswaram and Tillana. Along with the traditional Nritta items of Bharata Natyam repertoire, it
provides further knowledge of Nritta compositions such as Pushpanjali/ Mallari/kautvam.
• Pushpanjali / Mallari /kautvam
• Jatiswaram
• Tillana (Panchajati).
Continuous Assessment
1. Two (2) Class Tests (practical):
15%
15%
30%
2. Examination:
(a) Viva-Voce (Practical)
(b) Demonstration
35%
35%
70%
Students are expected to give a performance of 30 minutes showing the technical mastery of pure
dance (Nritta) and the acquisition of a wide range of movements and sequences of increased length
and complexity. They are also expected to vocalise, recite and do the Nattuvangam of the items
learnt under practical study to tala.
MABN 6102 - VAISHNAVISM AND SAIVISM IN INDIAN CLASSICAL DANCE
Vaishnavism and Saivism form the basis of the expressional aspect of Indian Classical Dance. This
module traces the evolution / development of Vaishnavism and Saivism cults and their influences on
Indian Classical Dance.
•
•
•
Overview of Vaishnavism and Saivism
Influence of Vaishnavism and Saivism on Indian Classical Dance
Study of the Vaishnavite and Saivite poets
Continuous Assessment
1. (a) 1 Class Test:
(b) 1 Class Presentation with Assignment:
15%
15%
2. Written Examination:
30%
70%
Students are expected to develop an understanding of Vaishnavism and Shaivism in relation to
Indian Classical Dance, their influences and also to develop a knowledge about the Vaishnavite and
Shaivite poets.
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Semester II
MABN 6203 - CHOREOGRAPHY AND COMPOSITIONAL WORK I
This module provides an in-depth study in choreography and compositional work laying emphasis
on Nritta dance compositions. It will also develop skills in creativity, stage crafts, lighting,
costumes and make-up.
•
•
Jatiswaram
Tillana (Panchajati).
Continuous Assessment:
1. (a) Two(2) Class Tests (Practical)
:
(b) Journal
2. Examination:
(a) Viva-Voce (practical)
(b) Demonstration
10%
10%
10%
35%
35%
30%
70%
Students are expected to develop a deeper knowledge in choreography and compositional work and
to give a performance of 30 minutes which should be composed, choreographed and mounted by
them. They are also expected to vocalise, recite and do the Nattuvangam of the items to tala.
Note: A new Panchajati Tillana composition will be provided to the students one week earlier,
prior to their scheduled practical examinations for choreography and compositional work.
MABN 6204 - BHARATARNAVA AND SANGEET RATNAKAR
This module deals with the study of the Sanskrit texts; Bharatarnava and Sangeet Ratnakar. It also
includes an overview of the different chapters related to dance in both texts.
Continuous Assessment
1. (a) 1 Class Test:
(b) 1 Class Presentation with Assignment:
2. Written Examination:
15%
15%
30%
70%
Students are expected to develop a better understanding of both texts and the technical terms as
elaborated in various chapters of the texts and apply that knowledge in their compositional and
choreographic works.
Electives
MABN 6205 - AESTHETICS
This module deals with the study of aesthetics (Indian and Western) in relation to Indian dance at
an introductory level. The Indian concept of Rasa as discussed by Bharata in Natya Shastra and the
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comments of other Indian aestheticians on Bharat’s Rasa Sutra will also be the main focus of this
module.
The Western Concept of aesthetics as propounded by Plato and Aristotle will also be the themes of
discussion in this module
MABN 6206 - ICONOGRAPHY AND SCULPTURE RELATED TO INDIAN CLASSICAL DANCE.
This module aims at providing knowledge on aspects of iconography and sculpture in relation to
Indian Classical Dance. This study will be carried out with reference to various temples of India.
Students are expected to enhance their knowledge about iconography and sculpture in relation to
dance and temples of India, together with the gestures, postures and attributes related to the
different deities.
MABN 6207 - MUSIC FOR BHARATA NATYAM
This module aims at providing further knowledge about melodic and rhythmic aspects pertaining to
Bharata Natyam. The focus of this module will be on the traditional vocal compositions such as
Padam, Varnam and Tillana with reference to their Ragas, Rasa-s and Talas.
Students are expected to render the Uttaranga of the prescribed compositions.
MABN 6208 - SOUTH INDIAN LITERATURE
This module provides an in-depth study of South Indian Literature in relation to Bharata Natyam.
Students are expected to enhance their knowledge of South Indian Literature with reference to
Bharata Natyam.
Year II
Semester I
MABN 7109 – NRITYA I
This module aims at providing further knowledge about Nritya aspects. It deals with the abhinaya
compositions which are expressional items introducing Ashtapadi.
•
•
•
Padam
Keertanam
Ashtapadi
Continuous Assessment:
1. Two (2) Class Tests (practical):
15%
15%
30%
2. Examination:
(a) Viva-Voce (Practical)
(b) Demonstration
35%
35%
70%
Students are expected to give a performance of 30 minutes showing their technical mastery in
combination with expression and fluidity of movements involving dynamics and use of space.
They are also expected to vocalise, recite and do the Nattuvangam of the items learnt under
practical study to tala.
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MABN 7110 - LITERATURE, TRADITIONAL THEATRE AND DANCE
This module will develop in the learners the abilities to critically analyse books related to Indian
classical dance along with a study of traditional Indian dance theatre. Emphasis will be laid on
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Yakshagana
Ankia Nat
Chhau
Kutiyattam
Ramlila
Bhavai
Sattriya
Continuous Assessment
1. (a) 1 Class Test:
(b)1 Class Presentation with Assignment:
15%
15%
2. Written Examination:
70%
30 %
Students are expected to critically analyze the books on Indian classical dance and demonstrate an
understanding of the traditional dance theatres of India.
Semester II
MABN 7211 - CHOREOGRAPHY AND COMPOSITIONAL WORK II
This module provides an in-depth study in choreography and compositional work of abhinaya
dance compositions:
• Padam
• Ashtapadi.
• A Ballet Choreography based on myths/legends/epics/ other themes
Along with confidence, students will convey spatial and self- awareness which will result in a
sensitive personal interpretation of musical mood applying a broad knowledge and understanding of
their genre to their own work. Engaging the audience, they can communicate their interpretation
effectively (through both solo and ensemble performances) with evidence of personal style and
technical mastery.
Continuous Assessment
1. (a) Two(2) Class Tests (Practical)
:
10%
10%
10%
(b) Journal
2. Examination:
(a) Viva-Voce (practical) - Padam and Ashtapadi
(b) Ballet choreography
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35%
35%
30%
70%
Students are expected to further develop their knowledge and technical strength in choreography
and compositional work (expressional aspect) and to mount a Ballet of 30 minutes which should
be composed and choreographed by them. They are also expected to vocalise, recite and do the
Nattuvangam of the items to tala.
Note 1: Students are advised to choose their themes well in advance, by the start of the level II
Semester I, so that they have ample time to prepare their scripts and music for the Ballet.
Note 2: Students will be provided with compositions (Padam and Ashtapadi) three hours prior to
their scheduled practical examinations for compositional and choreographic works.
MABN 7212 – NRITYA II
This module deals with the most demanding and elaborate composition of the Bharata Natyam
repertoire, Varnam, showing a blend of Nritta and Nritya components and offering a visual delight
through the training, the skill and the alternation between pure dance and abhinaya.
Continuous Assessment
1.Two (2) Class Tests (practical):
15%
15%
30%
2. Examination:
(a)Viva-Voce (Practical)
(b)Demonstration
35%
35%
70%
Students are expected to give a performance of 30-45 minutes demonstrating a mature awareness
of audience as well as subtleties of performance combined with expression, consolidated technical
skills and fluidity of movements involving dynamics and use of space. They are also expected to
vocalise, recite and do the Nattuvangam of the item learnt to tala
MABN 7213 - DANCES OF SOUTH EAST ASIA
This module aims at providing knowledge about various dances of South East Asia.
Dances from:
• Japan
• Java
• Bali
• Vietnam
• Cambodia
• Thailand
• Laos
• Burma
Continuous Assessment
1. (a) 1 Class Test:
(b) 1 Class Presentation with Assignment:
15%
15%
2. Written Examination:
70%
30%
Students are expected to develop an understanding about the different dances from the various
regions/countries of South East Asia.
MABN 6000 - DISSERTATION
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This module focuses on original work with innovative ideas which will deal with any topics in the
field of Dance. Students will be required to write between 10, 000 to 14,000 words on an original
research based topic which is approved by the School Board assisted by a supervisor.
This dissertation will include a Viva-Voce conducted by a panel including the supervisor and
moderator with a power point presentation.
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