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Introduction to the Veeranatyam of Andhra Pradesh:
The ordinary meaning of Veeranatyam is dance of the brave. This dance is accompanied with a lot of vigor and enthusiasm. The sole aim of the Veeranatyam is to pay homage to the divine God Shiva who is believed to be the oldest Vedic God. People also worship the Goddess Veerabhadra by performing this dance drama.
Actually performance of Veeranatyam occurs in almost every Shiva Temples of Andhra Pradesh and it involves skillful steps and dexterous hand movements. This dance is presently performed in the marriage functions and vow fulfillment ceremonies. The themes of the Veeranatyam mainly revolve around Dakshayagna.
During the Dakshayagna, a flame is lit and the bodies of the dancers are pierced with trident and spears. Since this needs skill and practice, the dancers require practicing their skills throughout the year. At the end of the ceremony the tridents are lit and Lord Shiva is offered homage by these flaming tridents.
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