Indian Classical Dance forms

 

There are eight main styles of Indian classical dance and they all come from different states of India. As you will see, they are dance at temple.

Bharathanatyam (Tamil Nadu)

One of the most well-known forms of Indian classical dance, Bharatanayam traces its origin to dances performed in temples. This dance form has been handed down through the centuries by dance teachers (or gurus) called nattuwanars and the temple dancers, called devadasis. It is accompanied by Carnatic music, a form of Indian classical music. It is widely learnt in Southern India and also attracts students from many parts of the world.

Kathak (Uttar Pradesh)

This dance form is closely linked to Hindustani classical music. Although early forms of Kathak were performances based on the life of the Hindu god Krishna, once Muslim invaders (such as the Mughals) captured a large part of North India, this dance style changed, and became less religious in nature.

Kathakali (Kerala)

One of the most recognizable forms of dance due to the elaborate make-up used by the dancers, the Kathakali dance form is also known for its dramatic (something that stands out) costumes. It originated in Kerala around 400 years ago the performance takes the form of a dance drama based on stories from sources such as the Ramayan and Mahabharat.

Kuchipudi (Andhra Pradesh)

The dance form takes its name from a village in the state where it was originally practised. It shares similarities with Bharathanatyam. Performances are based on a stories from Indian myth and there is a strong element of dance-drama within the form.

Manipuri (Manipur)

Hailing from the NE hill state of Manipur, this is a purely religious dance with a very striking costume style, especially for the female dancers. Stories are based on the myths surrounding the Hindu god Krishna and his partner Radha.

Mohiniyattam (Kerala)

This dance form is again religious in nature as it is mostly about devotion to one’s god. Stories of Krishna and Vishnu feature frequently as themes. It is believed to have developed as a dance form around 500 years ago. It is performed by solo (single) female dancers.

Odissi (Orissa)

Based on archaeological remains (old sculptures, texts etc), one can say that Odissi is the oldest living dance form in India. It has some similarities with Bharatanatyam. Again, like several other dance forms, common themes in Odissi relate to the lives of the Hindu gods – Vishnu and Krishna.

Sattriya (Assam)

The Sattriya was the last to be recognised as one of the eight classical dance forms of India. It was created by one of Assam’s great saints (a saint is a holy man) nearly 600 years ago. Although it was originally performed only in monasteries by male performers, it is now staged even outside these and frequently includes both male and female performers.