A stunning and enthralling art form that has been practiced for many years is Indian classical dance. It preserves the rich cultural legacy of our nation. These dances, which have their roots in ancient customs and mythological tales, blend elegant motions with expressive gestures. Every dance form embodies the unique cultural identity of a particular Indian region. Their beauty and narrative captivate listeners.
India is home to numerous exquisite classical dances, each of which embodies our rich cultural legacy. Tamil Nadu’s Bharatanatyam is renowned for its elaborate footwork, whereas North India’s Kathak uses rhythmic motions to narrate stories. Kuchipudi from Andhra Pradesh skillfully blends dance, drama, and music, while Odissi from Odisha emphasizes devotion. Mohiniyattam exemplifies grace in Kerala, while Kathakali is a captivating dance drama. Together, the distinctive regional customs of Assam’s Sattriya and Manipuri from Manipur showcase India’s rich legacy of classical dance.
Some dance form are given below:
- Tamil Nadu’s Bharatanatyam
a. Originally used in temples as Sadir or Dasi Attam.
b. The first traditional dance transformed into a theatrical art form.
c. Adheres to the Natyashastra of Bharata.
d. An extensive repertoire in Sanskrit, Tamil, and Telugu. - Manipur’s Manipuri dance
a. Based on Vaishnava beliefs.
b. Continuous and circular motions.
c. Quiet motions and facial expressions.
d. Separated into Cholom and Jagoi styles. - Northern India’s Kathak
a. Associated with storytellers, or Kathakaras.
c. Abundant throughout the Mughal Empire.
c. Well-known for their pirouettes and footwork.
d. Highlights the genre of Thumri music. - Odisha’s Odissi dance
a. Originally performed by female servants as a temple dance.
b. In the 20th century, it was revived as a theater art.
c. The themes of Vaishnava religion are inherent.
d. Gentle and elegant motions. - Kerala’s Kathakali
a. Kerala is where “story play” first appeared.
c. Inspired by the Mahabharata and Ramayana.
c. Symbolic makeup is used to depict characters.
d. Hand motions and facial expressions convey the narrative. - Kerala’s Mohiniattam
a.An enchantress named Mohini inspired the name.
b. Elegant and feminine dancing.
b. Use light footwork and avoid hefty steps.
d. Keralan music-related rhythms. - The Andhra Pradesh city of Kuchipudi
a. From the village of Kuchelapuram.
b. Blends dance, mime, and speech.
d. Uses mime alterations to tell stories.
d. Frequently presented as a dance play. - Assamese Sattriya Dance
a. Vaishnava monasteries are where it was developed.
b. A developed language of movement and hand gestures.
c. Modified for use in contemporary theater.
d. Devotion to Krishna was the main theme. - Eastern India’s Chhau
a. A fusion of folk entertainment, temple rites, and martial traditions.
b. Consists of episodes with abstract ideas, folklore, and epics.
c. Closely associated with holidays and customs.
d. Native drums and reed pipes are part of the musical ensemble.
These dances are performed in many parts of India and symbolize a variety of ethnic customs.