Padam

Telugu

A slow expressional piece, usually of love or devotion.

RepertoireBharatanatyam

Meaning

A padam is a lyrical composition performed slowly, with the emphasis almost entirely on abhinaya. The themes are typically shringara — love in its many states, including longing and separation — or devotion, and the nayika, the heroine, is drawn in detail. Padams reward stillness and subtlety rather than display.

Related words

JavaliA lighter, faster love song — playful where padam is grave.AlarippuThe opening item — the body unfolding, like a flower.MargamThe traditional order of a Bharatanatyam recital.MangalamThe closing benediction that ends a performance.TarangamThe Kuchipudi item danced on the rim of a brass plate.TillanaThe brilliant closing item of pure dance.

Know this differently, or know it better? Traditions vary and we would rather be corrected — tell us.

Connect. Learn. Celebrate.