The system of teaching is the pedagogy system
for imparting the Margi technique evolved
by Dr Padama Subrahmanyam based on her indepth
study of the Natya Sastra co-related with
temple sculptures.
Thus, the students are taught and trained
in the “vyayamas” [exercises]
of the “anga-upanga” [major and
minor limbs of the body] and “sthanas
and charis” [stances and leg movements],
culminating in the “karanas” –
the 108 basic unit of dance movements prescribed
in the Natya Sastra. In this method the entire
body, from head to toe is exercised individually
and in combination. Alongwith this, the “adavus”
or “steps” which form the basis
of the present Bharata Natyam, are also taught.
Thus, this system is doubly enriched with
the curvaceous movements of the karanas of
the 2000 years old Natya Sastra, and the angularity
and straight lines of the 600 years old Sadirattam
[present Bharata Natyam]. Students are trained
in the art of choreography also. Learning
music and the intricate tala-system is a must.