References to Dance in Devotional Literature

Abstract

Bhakti literature stands as a significant literary tradition that articulates profound spiritual experiences. Within these texts, the relationship between God, the devotee, and the universe is expressed through various artistic forms, among which natyam (dance) or adal (performance) occupies a prominent place. In devotional works such as the Tevaram, Tiruvachakam, Nalayira Divya Prabandham, and the hymns of Andal, references to Shiva’s Tandava, Krishna’s playful līlā dance, and the ecstatic dance of devotees frequently appear as important dance-related motifs. This study explains that the dance-related references found in Bhakti literature are not mere artistic allusions but carry deep philosophical, spiritual, and cultural meanings. Dance functions not only as a physical movement but also as a dialogue between the soul and the Divine, and as a medium for expressing metaphysical truths. The central argument of this research is that natyam in Bhakti literature serves as a powerful spiritual symbol that unites aesthetics, devotion, and philosophy.