Technical Definitions in Bharathanatyam

According to Natyashastra treaties, the art of classical dance is divided into three broad divisions: Nritta, Nritya, and Natya.

Nritta:
Nritta is a pure dance with no specific theme, containing Adavus (basic steps) rhythm patterns, poses, and Adavu jatis.
Ex. Jatiswaram, Thillana, Alarippu etc.

Nritya:
It is a dance composition with both Abhinaya and Nritta.
Ex. Sabdam, Padam, Varnam etc.

Natya:
In Natya, along with the use of the spoken word, the expressions, mime, and actions (Gestures of Abhinaya), dance and movements, and the elements of drama are involved.