India has diverse dance forms, broadly categorized as classical and folk
dances.
Currently, eight Indian dance forms have been considered as classical
dance forms by the Sangeet Natak Akademi of India, they are
Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kathakali, Kuchipudi, Odissi, Manipuri,
Sattriya, and Mohiniyattam, each originating from a specific region.
In addition, countless regional and tribal folk dances, such as Garba, Bihu,
Bhangra, and Chhau, exist across the country, reflecting local culture and
traditions.
Classical Dance Forms
These forms are characterized by ancient roots, codified rules, and a
spiritual connection, often found in religious or courtly settings.
1. Bharatanatyam: (Tamil Nadu)
The oldest classical dance tradition in India. Its earlier name was
Sadhir Attam. Yamini Krishnamurthy, Padma Subramaniam,
Mrinalini Sarabhai, Mallika Sarabhai etc are the Famous
Exponents.
2. Kathak: (Uttar Pradesh)
A storytelling dance form from Northern India. Birju Maharaj, Lacchu
Maharaj, Sitara Devi, Damayanti Joshi etc are the Famous
Exponents.
3. Kathakali: (Kerala)
A vibrant classical dance-drama from Kerala, incorporating elaborate
costumes and makeup to tell stories. Kathakali is a combination of
literature, music, painting, acting and dance. “Katha” means story
and “Kali” stands for dance. The Guru Kunchu Kurup, Kavungal
Chathunni Panicker, Gopi Nath, Rita Ganguly etc are the Famous
Exponents.
4. Kuchipudi: (Andhra Pradesh)
A dance-drama performance known for its intricate footwork and
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expressive movements. Kuchipudi, originally called Kuchelapuri or
de Kuchelapuram. Guru Kunchu Kurup, Kavungal Chathunni Panicker,
nti Gopi Nath, Rita Ganguly etc are the Famous Exponents.
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5. Odissi: (Odisha)
Originating from Odisha, it is a classical dance form. Guru
Kelucharan Mahapatra, Guru Pankaj Charan Das, Madhavi Mudgal,
Rekha Tandon, Sreyashi Dey and many more are the Famous
Exponents.
6. Manipuri: (Manipur)
A graceful dance form from the northeastern state of Manipur. this
dance form is based on the ‘Raasleela’ trope where Radha and Lord
Krishna share a dance. The Jhaveri sisters – Nayana, Suverna,
Darshana and Ranjana Jhaveri are well known Manipuri dancers.
other well known performers are Sohini Ray, Poushali Chatterjee etc
are the Famous Exponents.
7. Sattriya: (Assam)
A classical dance form from the state of Assam and it was introduced
in the 15th century A.D by the great Vaishnava saint and reformer
of Assam, Mahapurusha Sankaradeva as a powerful medium for
propagation of the Vaishnava faith. The Maniram Datta Moktar,
Bapuram Bayan Attai, Ghana Kanta Bora, Jatin Goswami, Indira PP
Bora etc are the Famous Exponents.
8. Mohiniyattam: (Kerala)
Its name comes from two words Mohini and aattam meaning the
graceful body movements of a woman. Its literal translation means
dance of the enchantress. Therefore, people regard Mohiniyattam as
a highly graceful dance form performed by women.
The first renowned Mohiniattam dancer was Kalyaniamma. The
other notable proponents are Krishna Paniker, Madhavi Amma etc.
Folk Dances
Folk dances are a way for people to express their emotions and reflect
the mood of society. India has a rich tapestry of folk dances that are
performed during festivals and social gatherings, varying significantly by
region and community.
Garba: (Gujarat): A popular folk dance performed with circular
movements.
Bhangra: (Punjab): An energetic folk dance from Punjab.
Ghoomar: (Rajasthan): A traditional Rajasthani folk dance.
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Chhau: (Jharkhand, West Bengal, Odisha): A semi-classical Indian
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dance with martial, tribal, and folk elements.
nti Lavani: (Maharashtra): A vibrant folk dance from Maharashtra.
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Yakshagana: (Karnataka): A popular traditional folk theater form from
Karnataka.
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