Introduction:
The Tamilnadu Council for Open and Distance Learning (TCODL), Chennai, stands as a pioneering institution committed to democratizing education through flexible, inclusive, and quality-driven learning modes. In its steadfast endeavour to preserve and propagate India’s timeless cultural heritage, the Council extends its academic wings into the illustrious domain of Fine Arts and Performing Arts — the living essence of India’s aesthetic and spiritual tradition.
Through its structured programmes in Bharatanatyam and Nattuvangam, TCODL provides learners with the opportunity to cultivate artistic excellence while pursuing formal education. These courses embody a harmonious blend of classical authenticity and modern accessibility, ensuring that traditional learning transcends geographical and institutional boundaries.
Fine Arts and Performing Arts at TCODL
The Department of Fine Arts and Performing Arts of TCODL serves as an academic sanctuary for aspiring artists, dancers, and teachers. It offers a progressive, grade-wise, and diploma-level curriculum, meticulously designed to nurture talent, preserve heritage, and promote the scholarly study of Indian classical dance and music traditions.
The programmes aim to:
- Foster appreciation and performance of Indian classical art forms.
- Impart both theoretical knowledge and practical proficiency.
- Provide avenues for professional advancement and academic recognition.
- Encourage performers, teachers, and enthusiasts to obtain nationally and internationally recognized qualifications.
Programmes Offered
- Bharatanatyam (Classical Dance of Tamil Nadu)
Revered as one of the most ancient and divine art forms of India, Bharatanatyam epitomizes rhythm, expression, and devotion. TCODL’s Bharatanatyam curriculum encapsulates every essential component — from Adavus, Alarippu, Jatiswaram, Shabdam, Varnam, to Tillana — enabling students to master both Nritta (pure dance) and Abhinaya (expressive storytelling) in a structured, sequential manner
- Nattuvangam (The Art of Rhythmic Conducting)
Nattuvangam, the rhythmic heart of Bharatanatyam, is the art of vocal and cymbal accompaniment that guides the dancer’s tempo, tala, and expression. TCODL’s Nattuvangam programme offers in-depth training in Tala system, Solkattu (syllabic recitation), Laya (tempo), choreography coordination, and stage direction techniques, thus equipping learners to become proficient conductors and teachers of classical performance.
Role of the Tamilnadu Council for Open and Distance Learning (TCODL)
The Tamilnadu Council for Open and Distance Learning plays a pivotal role in ensuring academic excellence, artistic integrity, and institutional credibility in all its Fine Arts and Performing Arts programmes. The Council extends its comprehensive support through the following initiatives:
- A well-structured and prescribed syllabus is provided for every level — Grade Examinations, Diploma, and P.G. Diploma Courses — thoughtfully designed to uphold both the pedagogical and artistic values of Bharatanatyam and Nattuvangam.
- Learners are furnished with comprehensive theory content and practical study materials, enabling them to develop a balanced understanding of technique, tradition, and aesthetics.
- Examinations and performance assessments are conducted by highly qualified and professionally experienced Bharatanatyam experts of Tamilnadu Council, ensuring transparency, consistency, and adherence to classical standards.
- Upon successful completion of the programme, learners are conferred with an internationally recognized certificate awarded by the Tamilnadu Council for Open and Distance Learning, Chennai, validating their academic and artistic achievement at a global level.
| BHARATANATYAM GRADE EXAM PROGRAMME FEE LIST |
|
|
| GRADE |
PRATICAL/ THEORY |
Medium |
Eligibility |
Duration |
Fees |
|
|
| Grade 1 |
Practical |
English & Tamil |
A Pass in 1st Standard
or 7 years old. |
1 year |
Rs. 2,500 |
|
|
| Grade 2 |
Practical |
English & Tamil |
A Pass in 2nd Standard
or 8 years old. |
1 year |
Rs. 2,700 |
|
|
| Grade 3 |
Practical |
English & Tamil |
A Pass in 3rd Standard
or 9 years old |
1 year |
Rs. 2,900 |
|
|
| Grade 4 |
PRACTICAL |
English & Tamil |
A Pass in 4th Standard
or 10 years old |
1 year |
Rs. 3,100 |
|
|
| Grade 5 |
PRACTICAL/ THEORY |
English & Tamil |
A Pass in 5th Standard
or 11 years old |
1 year |
Rs. 3,300 |
|
|
|
|
| DIPLOMA IN BHARATANATYAM PROGRAMME FEE LIST |
|
| COURSE |
PRACTICAL/ THEORY |
Medium |
Eligibility |
Duration |
Fees |
|
|
| Diploma in Bharatanatyam |
PRACTICAL/ THEORY |
English & Tamil |
A pass in 8th Standard / Completed 5th grade exam/ or arengetram / above 8-year experience |
1 year |
Rs. 4000 |
|
|
| P.G. Diploma in Bharatanatyam |
PRACTICAL/ THEORY |
English & Tamil |
A pass in 8th Standard / Completed 5th grade exam/ or arengetram /above 8-year experience |
1 year |
Rs. 5000 |
|
|
| Diploma in Nattuvangam |
PRACTICAL/ THEORY |
English & Tamil |
A pass in 10th Standard / Completed diploma exam/ or arengetram/above 8-year experience |
1 year |
Rs. 4000 |
|
|
| Dip in Bharathanatyam Teacher Training |
PRACTICAL/ THEORY |
English & Tamil |
A pass in 10th Standard / Completed diploma exam / or arengetram / above 8-year experience |
1 year |
Rs. 5000 |
|
|
|
Points to be noted:
1) Syllabus / basic notes will be provided.
2) Exam Assessment will be conducted 2 times in a year (Academic / Calendar).
3) Evaluation will be done by experts.
3) Marksheets / Certificates will be awarded for successfully completed candidates.
Click here to download Admission cum Examination form