Bharatanatyam vs Hip Hop for Children: Which Should You Choose?
When parents look for dance classes for their children, two very different options can sometimes come up: Bharatanatyam and Hip Hop.
Bharatanatyam is one of India’s established classical dance traditions, while Hip Hop represents a broad culture and range of dance practices that developed in the United States and has influenced contemporary dance around the world.
Both can provide children with opportunities to learn movement, rhythm, coordination and performance.
But the experience of learning them can be quite different.
So, should your child learn Bharatanatyam or Hip Hop?
The answer depends on what your child enjoys, their age, their personality and what kind of dance experience you are looking for.
What Is Bharatanatyam?
Bharatanatyam is a major Indian classical dance tradition associated historically with Tamil Xanadu.
It combines elements such as:
- Rhythmic footwork
- Hand gestures
- Body positions
- Facial expression
- Musicality
- Choreographed sequences
- Storytelling and expression
Training is generally progressive. Students learn fundamental movements before moving into more complex combinations and repertoire.
For children who enjoy structure, rhythm and traditional Indian performing arts, Bharatanatyam can be an interesting long-term activity.
What Is Hip Hop?
Hip Hop dance is associated with the broader Hip Hop culture that developed in the United States and includes several dance practices and styles.
In children’s classes, the content may include elements such as:
- Grooves
- Footwork
- Isolation
- Choreography
- Musicality
- Freestyle
- Performance
The exact teaching style can vary significantly between instructors and dance schools.
For children who enjoy energetic music and contemporary choreography, Hip Hop can be an engaging choice.
Bharatanatyam vs Hip Hop: At a Glance
| Bharatanatyam | Hip Hop |
|---|---|
| Indian classical dance tradition | Dance styles associated with Hip Hop culture |
| Structured technical training | Often focuses on grooves, musicality and choreography |
| Strong emphasis on rhythm and expression | Strong emphasis on musicality and movement |
| Traditional repertoire | Contemporary and evolving movement vocabulary |
| Often uses classical/traditional music | Often uses contemporary music |
| Progressive learning | Training approach varies by style and instructor |
| Connects children with Indian performing arts | Introduces children to contemporary dance culture |
Neither style is automatically more suitable for every child.
Which Children May Enjoy Bharatanatyam?
A child may particularly enjoy Bharatanatyam if they:
- Like traditional Indian music
- Enjoy structured learning
- Have an interest in Indian culture
- Enjoy rhythm and repetition
- Like expressive performance
- Are comfortable with regular practice
Bharatanatyam requires patience because children gradually develop technique.
Parents should therefore consider whether their child enjoys learning something progressively rather than expecting immediate results.
Which Children May Enjoy Hip Hop?
Hip Hop may appeal to children who:
- Love energetic music
- Enjoy contemporary choreography
- Like experimenting with movement
- Enjoy freestyle
- Prefer dynamic group activities
- Are interested in modern dance culture
Again, the actual experience depends heavily on the instructor and the class structure.
Does Bharatanatyam Make Children More Disciplined?
Bharatanatyam training involves regular practice and progressively developing technical skills.
This can encourage habits such as:
- Consistent practice
- Attention to detail
- Listening
- Rhythm awareness
- Following choreography
However, discipline is not exclusive to classical dance. Any well-structured dance program can encourage children to practice regularly and follow instructions.
Does Hip Hop Provide Good Exercise for Children?
Dance is a form of physical activity, and an energetic Hip Hop class can involve considerable movement.
Depending on the class, children may practice:
- Coordination
- Balance
- Footwork
- Body control
- Musicality
- Movement patterns
The amount of physical activity will depend on the duration and intensity of the particular class.
For children and adolescents, regular physical activity is generally recommended as part of a healthy lifestyle. The World Health Organization recommends an average of at least 60 minutes of moderate-to-vigorous physical activity per day across the week for ages 5–17.
What About Stage Performances?
Both Bharatanatyam and Hip Hop can be performed on stage.
A Bharatanatyam performance may focus on:
- Technique
- Rhythm
- Expression
- Traditional choreography
A Hip Hop performance may focus more on:
- Group choreography
- Musicality
- Energy
- Contemporary movement
- Performance style
For children who enjoy performing, either can provide useful experience.
Which One Is Easier for Beginners?
It is difficult to say that one is universally easier.
Every child learns differently.
A child familiar with contemporary music may feel comfortable with Hip Hop movements, while another child may immediately connect with the rhythm and structure of classical dance.
The teaching approach also makes a significant difference.
For a beginner, the most important thing is finding an age-appropriate class with an instructor who knows how to teach children.
Should a Parent Choose for the Child?
Parents naturally want to guide their children’s activities, but giving the child some choice can be helpful.
Try showing your child examples of both styles.
Ask:
“Which one would you like to try?”
If possible, attend a demo class.
You may discover that the child’s preference is very different from what you expected.
Can a Child Learn Both Bharatanatyam and Hip Hop?
Yes.
There is no general rule that a child must choose one dance style permanently.
Learning different styles can expose children to different movement vocabularies and performance approaches.
However, parents should consider the child’s:
- Age
- School schedule
- Homework
- Travel time
- Practice requirements
- Interest level
For a young beginner, starting with one regular class may be a practical way to discover whether they enjoy dance before adding another style.
Bharatanatyam or Hip Hop for Children in Guwahati?
Parents in Guwahati have access to different types of dance training, but the most important thing is to look at the actual class and teacher, not simply the name of the style.
Before enrolling, ask:
1. What age group is the class for?
A class designed for teenagers may not be appropriate for a young beginner.
2. Is previous experience required?
Many beginner classes accept children without previous training.
3. Who teaches the class?
Ask about the instructor’s experience and teaching approach.
4. What are the class timings?
Choose a schedule your child can realistically maintain.
5. Is there a demo class?
A demo can help your child understand whether they enjoy the style.
Bharatanatyam and Hip Hop at Urban Beats Performing Arts
Urban Beats Performing Arts offers children’s dance programs in Guwahati, with options including Bharatanatyam and modern/Western dance styles, depending on the current batches.
The academy has centers in Rajgarh and Kumarpara, giving parents options based on location and schedule.
If you are unsure which style is appropriate for your child, you can discuss their age, previous experience and interests with the Urban Beats team before selecting a batch.
Urban Beats Performing Arts — Rajgarh
2nd Floor, 268, Rajgarh, Sarania Hills
Guwahati, Assam 781003
Urban Beats Performing Arts — Kumarpara
Kumarpara, Guwahati
Visit urbanbeats.in or contact Urban Beats for current class availability, timings and demo-session information.
So, Bharatanatyam or Hip Hop?
There is no universal winner.
Bharatanatyam may appeal to children interested in Indian classical dance, traditional music, structured training and expressive performance.
Hip Hop may appeal to children interested in contemporary music, energetic movement, freestyle and modern choreography.
And some children may genuinely enjoy both.
The most useful approach is to consider your child’s interests and let them experience the class where possible.
A successful children’s dance class should encourage learning, movement, creativity and enjoyment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Bharatanatyam better than Hip Hop for children?
Neither is universally better. They are different dance traditions with different approaches to movement, music and training.
Is Hip Hop suitable for children?
Age-appropriate Hip Hop classes can be suitable for children, particularly when taught by instructors experienced in working with young students.
What age can children start Bharatanatyam?
The appropriate starting age varies by teacher and program. Parents should look for a beginner batch specifically designed for the child’s age.
Can a child learn Bharatanatyam and Hip Hop together?
Yes, provided the child’s schedule, age and interest allow them to manage both activities comfortably.
Which is better for stage performance?
Both styles can be performed on stage. The type of performance and skills developed will differ between classical and contemporary dance.
Where can I find Bharatanatyam or Hip Hop classes for kids in Guwahati?
Urban Beats Performing Arts offers children’s dance programs at its Rajgarh and Kumarpara centers in Guwahati. Contact the academy for current batches and available styles.
