The Ultimate Glossary of Terms About Dance of India

Exploring the Rich Heritage of the Dance of India: A Cultural Journey

The Artistry of Indian Dance 

Dance of India: Country's Rich Cultural Heritage 

India is a place with rich cultural heritage. It is wonderful that our country's diverse languages and festivals, forms of dance and music different dresses and food items evolved during the mediaeval period. This article will emphasize only dances which are originated from different parts of India and recognised by the Sangeet Natak Academy. 

9 Main Classical Dance of India:

1. Bharatanatyam

Bharatanatyam is a solo traditional dance comprising Vanam, Thillana, Alarippu, Padam; which originates from South India's temple and is based on Natya Shastra, This Shastra is written by Bharat Muni in around 4000 BC.

2. Kathakali

Kathakali is a vibrant Indian classical dramatic dance from Karela; It originates from Karela's temple. This dance is well known for its most spirited characteristics like body gesture, facial expressions of make up resembling masks, wonderful eye movement Symbolic epic storytelling.

3. Kathak

Kathak is one of the popular, lively classical dance from North India it is based on the form of 'Radha Krishna' Lilas and known for beautiful facial expressions, Ghungroo blended fast footwork; originating from North Indian temples. Which evolves from temple to Moghul court. The word 'Kathak' come from the word "Katha" meaning "story" and "Kathakar" meaning "storytelling."

4. Odissi

Odissi is one of the oldest classical dances from Orissa which is also based on the principles of Nataya Shastra like Bharatanatyam.This dance is totally based upon devoting prayer to Lord Krishna. It originated in Orissa from second century BC.

5.Kuchipudi

Kuchipudi is one of popular solo dances of Andhra Pradesh. It is also based on the principals of Natya Shastra. Name "Kuchipudi" renames after the name of "Kuchipudi" the village where where this dramatic dance originated as a devotional dance. In this dance man performed their performance like woman attire.

6. Manipuri

Manipuri Dance 

Manipuri dance is one of the classical ritualistic and highly lyrical and non dramatic dance. It originated from the Monipur; based on the softest motion emotional Radha-Krishna Ras Leela fluid storytelling which is rooted ancient Manipuri spiritual ritual 'Lai Haraoba.'

7. Ottam Thullal

Ottam Thullal is one of the solo classical dance which is originated from Karela.which is known as poor man's Kathakali. This dance was created by renowned poet Kunchan Nambiar in 18 century Regarding the creation of this dance he gave importance to the form of social protection and dramatic entertainment. The Ottam Thullal dance is also based on the principals of Nataya Sashtra.

8. Mohiniattam

Mohiniattam is one of the graceful solo feminine Indian classical dances from Karela which is similar to Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi and Odissi; known as "dance of the enchantress." Meaning Vishnu's mythical female avatar- Mohini. This solo dance weaves through the Carnatic music with soft swaying ocean weave movement based on the principles of Nataya Sashtra.

9. Sattriya

Sattriya is one of the major classical dances of North East Assam. It originated in the Vaishnavite monastery Sattras and was established by Mahapurush Srimanta Sankaradeva in the 15th century. This dance focuses on the storytelling of Krishna Vishnu Bandanna with beautiful magical music by Bargeet accompanied by Khols, Taals, Flute, Harmonium, and Violin. 
The aim of this dance was to spread the devotion of Krishna and propagate the Vaishnavite philosophy "Eksarana Dharma", Meaning "God is One" through Bhowana, a mythical combination of "Nritya" and "Naitya", which are called dance and drama. It is superbly the iconic attire of the Sattriya dancer, who costumes world-famous Assamese traditional silk Dhoti, Chador and Kanchi. Indeed, it is one main significant part of the cultural heritage of Assam.

Incredibly, this beautiful creatures arts make our country unique in the world.

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