Tandava is basically male dance with energetic, forceful , mascular movements and is full of furious, fearful and such other sentiments.
Lord Shiva is known as the creator of dance. He presented his supernatural dance in front of Gods. It is said that the earth and the constellation moves, according to the feet and hand movements of Lord Shiva. Basically this dance is the source of creation, preservation and destruction.
Tandu Muni Ji, the disciple of Lord Shiva, compiled the karna, Rechaks, Angharas and gestures used by Lord Shiva in the dance and with the help of Tala, Laya started practising it. That is why Shivaji’s dance is known as “Tandava.”
On the other hand Maa Parvati ji danced with Lord Shiva with beautiful and graceful movements.
The graceful dance by Maa Parvati is known as “Lasya.” She taught lasya nritya to Vanasur’s daughter Usha, who got married to great grandson of Lord Krishna named Anirudha in Dwarika. She taught this dance to the ladies of Dwarika.
The Spread of Tandava and Lasya on Earth
It is said that Brahma Ji mixed Tripurasur’s blood and flesh with clay and made a dhol and guided Ganesha ji to play rhythm on it. Ganesh ji originated Tala by taking ‘Ta’ from Tandava and ‘La’ from Lasya. Tandava word has so many meanings in Sanskrit.
Tandava is basically male dance with energetic, forceful , mascular movements and is full of furious, fearful and such other sentiments. Bols of Pakhawaj are used in it. In kathak nritya parans, Shiva Stuties- kavitts are based on Tandava only.
Lasya is a variety of dance which isa feminine in its character with delicate and graceful movements with erotic sentiments. In kathak thumri, gat nikas etc. are based on Lasya Anga. Lasya mainly has three types- Vishama lasya, Vikata lasya and Laghu lasya.
Tandava and Lasya can be seen in each and every form of dance.
