Image title: Figure 15. A Nartaki performing Baddha Cari

Siras and Urah are in Sama, Kati is in Udvahita on right side, right leg is straight and unbent, right Uru is in Stambhana right Jangha is straight and right Janu is in Sama. Left Uru is turned inwards–Valana, left Janu is slightly bent and left Jangha is in Nata, left Pada is placed in Agratala–seems to be performing Baddha Cari of Sangita Ratnakara which is a Bhumi Cari number 9. Right hand is holding a lotus, left hand is place on Uru in Ardhacandra. She seems to be performing the Baddha Cari according to whose description the thighs cross by making a Valana movementand the Svastika is released by making a circular movement with the tips of the feet and the foot is brought to its side. This is done alternately with each leg.

Bhumi Caris are performed with the feet planted more firmly on the ground. Bhumi Caris are sixteen in number and along with the sixteen Akasiki Caris form the basis of the Karanas. Baddha Cari gives the impression of a serpentine movement.

Gallery information:

Kumbakonam is considered as one of the holiest places in Tamil Nadu and is known for its temples and Mathas (monasteries which were centres of Brahmanical learning). These photographs depict the connection between the sculptures in the temples and Natya Shastra and related texts dealing with iconography.