Updated on Jan 28, 2025 06:34 IST

Bharatanatyam is one of the oldest and most revered classical dance forms of India and It is widely taught in various Colleges across the country. A Bharatanatyam course in India is offered at certificate, diploma, undergraduate (BPA in Bharatnatyam/BFA in Bharatanatyam), postgraduate (MPA in Bharatanatyam/MFA in Bharatanatyam), and Ph.D. levels.

The eligibility criteria for Bharatanatyam Courses vary depending on the program's diploma and undergraduate programs in Bharatanatyam typically require a minimum of 10+2 education, while the postgraduate courses require a relevant bachelor's degree.

Most of the Colleges provide Admission to Bharatanatyam Courses based on Merit but some Colleges conduct entrance exams or auditions to assess dance skills. The Bharatnatyam Syllabus includes subjects like Bharatanatyam techniques, history of Indian dance, Abhinaya (expressions), Nattuvangam, Carnatic music, and choreography.

There are various top colleges that offer Bharatanatyam courses including Kalakshetra Foundation (Chennai), Nalanda Nritya Kala Mahavidyalaya (Mumbai), Rabindra Bharati University (Kolkata), and Banaras Hindu University (Varanasi). The Bharatanatyam fees range from INR 10,000 to INR 2 Lakh per year, depending on the institution.

Graduates of Bharatanatyam Courses can pursue careers as professional dancers, choreographers, dance teachers, researchers, or arts administrators with starting salaries ranging from INR 3 LPA - INR 6 LPA. Top recruiters of Bharatanatyam Courses include cultural institutions, performing arts academies, film and television industries, and educational institutions.

Bharatanatyam Course Details: Highlights

Bharatanatyam Course is all about the Indian Classical Dance - Bharatanatyam. This course enables students to explore all aspects of Bharatanatyam Dance. By studying the history and origin of Bharatanatyam Dance, students will gain an understanding of both the technical and aesthetic dimensions of this dance form.

The highlights table below gives quick information about the course types, duration, course fees, and entrance exams for pursuing Bharatanatyam courses. 

Highlights 

Details

Course Level

Certificate, Undergraduate, Postgraduate

Eligibility

Certificate: Class 12 

UG: Class 12 along with entrance examination

PG: Graduation in any discipline with dance as the main subject or BA in Dance/ BPA in Dance

Duration

Certificate: 6 months - 1 year

UG: 3 - 4 years

PG: 2 years

Examination Type

Semester-wise

Fee Range

INR 2,000 - INR 4 Lakh

Top Colleges

 

Average Starting Salary

 

Job Scope

 

Entrance Exams

 

Top Recruiters

 

Note: This information is sourced from official website and may vary.

Quick Links Related to Bharatanatyam Courses:

Dance & Choreography Course: Admission 2025, Fees, Syllabus, Entrance Exam, Top Colleges, Career Scope

Art Scholarships for Indian Students

Bharatanatyam Course Admission 2025

Here is the general step-by-step guide for the   Admission to Bharatanatyam Courses:
  • Step-1 Review the program: First review the curriculum, specializations, faculty, and facilities after that check academic qualifications, entrance exam requirements, and any additional criteria.
  • Step-2 Prepare Required Documents: Prepare all the documents beforehand so that no last-minute issues occur. The documents include academic mark sheets, certificates, Exam Scores, and letters of recommendation.
  • Step-3 Fill out the Application Form and Pay the Fees: Complete the application form provided by the institution. This may be done online or on paper and pay any required application fees.
  • Step-4 Entrance Exams (if applicable): If the program requires an entrance exam, such as a specific university's test, or an Audition, register and prepare for it. Take the exam then wait for the result.
  • Step-5 Submit Application: Submit all required documents along with the completed application form. Always ensure that all documents have been received and verify the status of your application.
  • Step-6 Await Admission Decision: Monitor the admission portal or your email for updates on the results. If accepted an official offer letter will be provided by the university.
  • Step-7 Confirm Enrollment: Confirm your intention to enroll in the program and Pay the required enrollment or tuition Fees.
  • Step-8 Prepare for the Start of Classes: Follow instructions for course registration and orientation. If needed, arrange for on-campus or off-campus housing and attend any orientation sessions to familiarize yourself with the campus and program.
  • Step-9 Start Classes: Attend classes and start your academic journey.
Note: Be sure to check the specific requirements and deadlines for each program as they can vary. Some programs may also have additional steps or unique requirements.

Bharatanatyam Course Eligibility Criteria

The Eligibility Criteria of Bharatnatyam Course depends on the level of the course the candidates wants to pursue. Following are the eligibility criteria that a candidate must meet in order to get admission to Bharatanatyam Course

Course

Eligibility Criteria

UG Level

  • To pursue a Bharatanatyam Course at the UG level candidates should complete Class 12th in any stream from a recognized board with a minimum aggregate percentage (usually 50% - 60%).

PG Level

  • To pursue a Bharatanatyam Course at a graduate degree or PG diploma level, the Candidate should have passed B.Music/BPA in Dance in Indian Classical Dance (Kathak/Bharat Natyam) from a recognized university with a minimum aggregate of 50 percent or equivalent

Certificate-Level/Diploma

  • Bharatanatyam Courses are short-term courses that candidates can pursue on passing Class 10th. 

Note: The eligibility criteria are subject to change depending on the college or entrance exam.

Bharatanatyam Course Entrance Exam 2025

The Entrance Exams for Bharatanatyam vary depending on the level of the course (diploma, undergraduate, postgraduate, or doctoral) and the institution offering it. Various Colleges provide admission to students on merit basis and a practical exam. However, many prestigious Colleges and institutions conduct entrance exams or auditions to assess a candidate’s practical skills, theoretical knowledge, and passion for Bharatanatyam Dance. Here are the details of the Entrance Test that students can appear for:

Entrance Exam Name

Bharatanatyam Entrance Exam Dates

Bharatanatyam Exam Schedule

CUET 2025

May '25 - Jun '25 (Tentative)

CUET Exam Date 2025

CUET PG 2025

Mar '25

CUET PG Exam Date 2025

BVP CET 2025

08 Jun '25

BVP CET Exam Date 2025

Note: The information is sourced from the official/counselling body of the institute/exam.

Bharatanatyam topics you might be interested in:

BFA Courses Fee Structure 2025-26: Tuition Fees, Eligibility & Course Duration

Diploma in Bharatanatyam: Course Details, Tuition Fees, Seats Intake

2 Jan ' 25 - 1 Feb ' 25

CUET PG 2025 Application Process

2 Jan ' 25 - 2 Feb ' 25

CUET PG 2025 Application Process Online Fee

13 Feb ' 25

MAH AAC CET 2025 Application Last Date

5 Apr ' 25

MAH AAC CET 2025 Exam

28 Jan ' 25 - 5 Feb ' 25

NSD Exam 2025 Workshop cum interview

10 Jan ' 25 - 15 Jan ' 25

NSD Entrance Exam Registrations 2025

Feb '25 - Mar '25

PUBDET 2025 Applications

TENTATIVE

Jun '25 - Jul '25

PUBDET 2025 Admit Card

TENTATIVE

Important Exam Dates

DatesPast Exam Dates

21 May '23 -

08 Jun '23

BHU CUET 2023 exam days

09 Apr '23 -

11 Apr '23

BHU CUET 2023 Application Window Reopened

10 Feb '23 -

30 Mar '23

CUET 2023 application process (extended)

Bharatnatyam Course Syllabus

The syllabus for a Bharatanatyam course varies across universities and levels (BPA/BFA, MPA/MFA), but generally follows a structured curriculum that includes practical training, theory, music, and choreography. Below is the syllabus for a Bachelor of Performing Arts (BPA) or Bachelor of Fine Arts (BFA) in Bharatanatyam, which typically spans six semesters (three years).

Bharatanatyam Syllabus
Basic Adavus (Steps) and Postures Introduction to Bharatanatyam (History and Evolution)

Jatiswaram and Alarippu (Basic Compositions)

Theories of Natya Shastra and Abhinaya Darpana Tala (Rhythm) and Laya (Tempo) Concepts Temple Sculptures and Dance Iconography
Indian Classical Dance and Its Styles Padams and Javalis – Expressive Dance Pieces Lighting and Costuming for Dance
Dance and Theatre Production Study of Devotional and Mythological Themes in Dance Dance Therapy and Its Applications
Introduction to Abhinaya (Expressive Dance) Arangetram (Final Performance/Graduation Recital) Advanced Choreography and Innovation in Dance
Bharatanatyam in Films and Modern Media Study of Classical Ragas Used in Bharatanatyam

Sanskrit and Tamil Literature in Bharatanatyam

Stage Performance Techniques

Detailed Study of Tala and Rhythm Variations

Music Composition for Bharatanatyam

Note: The information is sourced from external sites and may vary. 

Students also liked these topics on the Bharatnatyam Course:

Arts (Fine/Visual/Performing) Syllabus

Top 10 Dance Choreographers in India

Best Bharatnatyam Colleges in India

There are several reputed colleges and institutions in India that offer Bharatanatyam courses at certificate, diploma, undergraduate, postgraduate, and Ph.D. levels. These Colleges provide rigorous training in Bharatanatyam blending theoretical knowledge with practical expertise and help the students to build careers as performers, teachers, choreographers, and researchers in the field of Indian classical dance. Students can take a look at the table below to know more about the top Colleges providing Bharatanatyam courses.

Bharatnatyam Course Government Colleges

Students can go through the following table to know about colleges that offer undergraduate, postgraduate, and diploma in Bharatanatyam courses:

Best Government Colleges for Bharatanatyam Bharatanatyam Course Fees

Annamalai University

INR 8,990 - 15,180

Banaras Hindu University

INR 2,400 - 5,160

Department of Music, CSJM University

INR 2,100 - 3,100

Indira Gandhi National Open University (IGNOU)

INR 4,000

Indira Kala Sangit Vishwavidyalaya (IKSVV)

NA

Karnataka State Dr. Gangubai Hangal Music and Performing Arts University

INR 9,000 - 10,000

Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Solapur University

INR 3,000

The Maharaja Sayajirao University of Baroda (MSU)

INR 20,560 - 28,320

University of Hyderabad (UOH)

INR 14,900

University of Madras

INR 30,000

Note- This information is sourced from the official website/counseling body and may vary.

Bharatnatyam Course Private Colleges

Private Colleges are well known because of their Syllabus, experienced faculty, and excellent Industry Connections. Here is the list of Private Colleges that offer Bharatnatyam Courses:

Best Private Colleges for Bharatanatyam Bharatanatyam Course Fees

Alva’s College, Moodbidri

NA

Bharati Vidyapeeth

INR 75,000

Dr. D.Y. Patil Vidyapeeth, Pune

INR 1 Lakh

National Sanskrit University

INR 3.000

Natyaveda College of Performing Arts

NA

Reva University

NA

SASTRA (Deemed to be University)

INR 60,000 - 90,000

Sathangai Academy

NA

School of Music and Fine Arts, VELS Institute of Science, Technology and Advanced Studies

INR 32,000 - 60,000

University of Patanjali

INR 8,800 - 60,000

Yashwantrao Mohite College of Arts, Science, and Commerce, Bharati Vidyapeeth

INR 60,000

Note- This information is sourced from the official website/counseling body and may vary.

Relevant Links for Bharatnatyam Course:

Top BA Bharatanatyam Colleges in Kerala

2 Courses
2.4 K - 5.16 K
8 - 9 LPA
3 Courses
20.56 K - 28.32 K
2.8 - 3 LPA
30 K
1 Course
14.9 K
6.5 LPA
4 K

Popular Private Bharatnatyam Colleges in India

7.26 LPA

Bhartnatayam Applications open. Apply Now

2 Courses
2.4 K - 5.16 K
8 - 9 LPA
3 Courses
20.56 K - 28.32 K
2.8 - 3 LPA
30 K
1 Course
14.9 K
6.5 LPA
4 K

Online Bharatanatyam Certificate Course

With the rise of digital learning, many platforms and Colleges offer online Bharatnatyam Courses and certification courses in Bharatanatyam allowing students to learn at their own pace. These courses range from beginner to advanced levels and cover practical training, theory, and performance techniques. These courses are ideal for beginners, working professionals, or students who are looking to enhance their skills without committing to a full-time degree.

Bharatnatyam Courses Online Course Provider Online Bharatanatyam Fees 
BFA in Dance (Bharathanatyam) Annamalai University Distance Education INR 16,600
B.A. in Dance Potti Sreeramulu Telugu University INR 6,000
Certificate in Performing Arts - Bharatnatyam IGNOU INR 4,000
MFA in Dance (Bhartnatayam) Annamalai University Distance Education INR 16,600

Note: This information is sourced from official website and may vary.

Bharatanatyam Career: Scope, Job Profiles, Salary, Top Recruiters

Completing a Bharatanatyam course opens up diverse career opportunities in the fields of performing arts, teaching, choreography, research, and cultural promotion. The scope is broad, especially for the Candidates who are passionate about preserving and promoting Indian classical dance forms. The salary of a Bharatanatyam graduate depends on the individual's skills, experience, and job profile. Freelancers and entrepreneurs can earn significantly based on their reputation and the number of students or clients they manage. Given below are some of the popular job profiles that are available for candidates with a Bharatanatyam degree:

Job Profile

Job Description

Average Salary

Professional Dancer They perform Bharatanatyam at cultural events, festivals, and concerts globally. INR 2.5 - 7 LPA
Choreographer

Designs and composes Bharatanatyam sequences for performances, movies, and events. They usually Work closely with dancers, musicians, and directors.

INR 3 - 10 LPA
Dance Teacher/Trainer A Dance Teacher teaches Bharatanatyam at schools, colleges, private dance academies, or online platforms. INR 2.3 - 6.4 LPA

Arts Administrator

Their work is to manage cultural organizations, dance academies, or event-planning companies. INR 2.2 - 4.1 LPA
Dance Therapist A Dance Therapist uses Bharatanatyam as a therapeutic tool to promote physical and mental well-being. INR 2.5 - 10 LPA

Note- The above salary has been taken from Ambitionbox.com.

Bharatnatyam Course FAQs

Here are some important Questions related to Bharatnatyam Course:

Popular Bharatnatyam UG Courses

Following are the most popular Bharatnatyam UG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these UG Courses by clicking the links below.

UG Courses

Popular Bharatnatyam PG Courses

Following are the most popular Bharatnatyam PG Courses . You can explore the top Colleges offering these PG Courses by clicking the links below.

PG Courses

qna

Student Forum

chatAnything you would want to ask experts?
Write here...