Andhranatyam represents one of the ancient classical dance forms of the Telugu-speaking regions, encompassing modern-day Telangana, Rayalaseema and Andhra. Its history spans over two millennia, with traditions tracking back at least 2000 years. This enduring art form served as a vital component of spiritual and cultural life, performed consistently in Buddhist aramas, temples, and royal courts by cultured and dedicated female artists.

Andhranatyam belongs fundamentally to the ancient Nattuva Mela tradition, which is historically associated with women performing sacred and courtly dances. This classification distinguishes it from the Natya Mela tradition, typically reserved for male performers. The historic landscape of this tradition, however, was characterised by regional variation and decentralised patronage, leading to the use of numerous descriptive titles rather than a single unified name. Before its formal codification, the practise was known variously as Aradhana, Kacheri, Darbar Ata, Kelika, Chinna Melam, Mejuvani, Dasi Ata, Agama nartanam and Karnatakam. The multiplicity of these names – such as Kelika, Mejuvani, and Darbar Ata demonstrates the art forms high adaptability, with its identity often defined by the specific context of the patronage (temple, court or private residence). This fragmentation of identity while reflecting regional richness, ultimately necessitated a strategic unification for the art form to gain national recognition centuries later.