Shlokam

श्लोक

Sanskritshlo · ka

A Sanskrit verse of prayer, interpreted in dance

RepertoireBharatanatyamKuchipudiOdissi

Meaning

A shlokam is a Sanskrit verse, usually a prayer. In a recital it may be danced as an invocation, or sung at the close as a final blessing, interpreted through abhinaya without a strict rhythmic structure.

Also written: shloka, sloka, slokam, shlokas

Sources

Related words

Mangalacharanमङ्गलाचरणThe invocatory opening of an Odissi recital.Mangalamमङ्गलम्The closing benediction that ends a performance.AbhinayaअभिनयThe art of expression — making meaning visible.Alarippuஅலாரிப்புThe opening item — the body unfolding, like a flower.PadamపదంA slow expressional piece, usually of love or devotion.Jathiswaramजतिस्वरम्Pure dance set to musical notes, with no words.

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