Alarippu / Tisra Eka talam / Kalakshetra

The Alarippu (meaning flowering bud) is traditionally the first dance piece that Bharatanatyam dancers learn and perform in this type of classical dance recital. It is an invocation piece, symbolizing the offering of respects to both God, the guru, and the audience.
The Alarippu was created in five different talas by the four brothers historical named Tanjore Quartet in the nineteen century Tanjore Royal Court.
It is a dance piece accompanied by a nattuvanar (verbal percussionist) and a mrudangist. While dancing this piece shows basic steps. It contains no abhinaya (facial expressions).