An introduction to the classical dance of South India in the Tanjore style. Kamala Cesar, disciple of T. Balasaraswati, performs segments from each of the items in the traditional Bharata Natyam concert repertoire: Alarippu, Jatisvaram, Shabdam, Varnam, Padam & Tillana. Explanations follow each segment. The video also includes demonstrations of how the dance is learned, an explanation of its connection with music, and information on the historical and cultural contexts of the dance.