Question

Name the exponents of Bharata Natyam dance style who, directly descended from the Devadasi tradition.

• A. Balasaraswati
• B. Malavika Sarukai
• C. Rukminidevi Arundel
• D. Sonal Mansingh

Hint:

\[ \text{Balasaraswati} \rightarrow \text{Directly associated with the Devadasi tradition} \] She is regarded as one of the greatest exponents of traditional Bharata Natyam.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is A

Concept:
The Devadasi tradition was an ancient cultural practice in South India where women were dedicated to temple service and trained in music and dance. Bharata Natyam evolved significantly through this tradition. Among the renowned exponents of Bharata Natyam, Balasaraswati is recognized as directly descending from the Devadasi lineage.

Step 1: Understand the Devadasi tradition.
The Devadasi tradition contributed greatly to:
• Preservation of Bharata Natyam
• Temple dance traditions
• Musical and expressive techniques
• Classical performance practices Many hereditary artists from this tradition played a major role in maintaining classical dance heritage.

Step 2: Identify the exponent connected with the Devadasi lineage.
Balasaraswati belonged to a hereditary family of musicians and dancers directly associated with the Devadasi tradition. She became one of the greatest exponents of Bharata Natyam and was especially known for:
• Expressional dance (Abhinaya)
• Traditional Bharata Natyam style
• Preservation of hereditary dance traditions

Step 3: Compare with the given options.
Among the given choices:
• Balasaraswati directly descended from the Devadasi tradition.
• Malavika Sarukai is a modern Bharata Natyam dancer.
• Rukminidevi Arundel revived and reformed Bharata Natyam but was not from the Devadasi lineage.
• Sonal Mansingh is a renowned classical dancer associated with multiple dance forms. Therefore, the correct answer is: \[ \boxed{\text{Balasaraswati}} \] Hence: \[ \boxed{\mathrm{(A)}} \]