Books & Literature
"In her writing, Komala Varadan chronicles the evolution of Bharatanatyam from temple rituals to contemporary solo formats, documenting her role in expanding its horizons."
Archiving the Sacred
Beyond the stage, Komala Varadan was a prolific researcher. Her primary contribution, Expanding Horizons, illustrates key episodes from the Ramayana through color photographs capturing nritta and abhinaya.
The publication serves as a performance script—equivalent to a 2.5-hour stage presentation—serving as a vital resource for scholars and dancers exploring interdisciplinary connections.
Her research involves meticulous archival selection of verses from Awadhi epics, adapting them into Bharatanatyam-compatible songs set to specific talas and ragas.
Expanding Horizons: Sri Ram Charit Manas
A seminal work documenting the solo Bharatanatyam rendition of Tulsidas' epic, published by B.R. Publishing Corporation.
Prakritim Vande
An exploration of environment through Indian classical aesthetics, later adapted into an award-winning film.
Rhythm in Motion
Reflections on the geometry and spirituality of Bharatanatyam as a master practitioner.
Digitizing the Gurukul
Kalaikoodam is currently digitizing rare manuscripts and performance notations of Komala Varadan's landmark productions, including the Serialized Ramcharit Manas as telecast on Doordarshan.