Tillana

Sanskrit

The brilliant closing item of pure dance.

RepertoireBharatanatyam

Meaning

The tillana concludes a recital. It is built on rhythmic syllables rather than narrative lyrics, is quick and sculpturesque, and is designed to end the evening on energy and precision. Many tillanas close with a short sung line in praise of a deity.

Also written: thillana

Related words

MangalamThe closing benediction that ends a performance.MargamThe traditional order of a Bharatanatyam recital.AlarippuThe opening item — the body unfolding, like a flower.PadamA slow expressional piece, usually of love or devotion.PallaviOdissi's item of pure dance, blossoming from stillness.ShabdamThe first item with lyrics, where expression enters.

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