Dances of India
India offers many dance forms from different parts of the country. Each dance form exemplifies the culture of the state that it represents.
Bharatnatyam is a dance form that originated in Tamil Nadu. It is performed as a solo or group dance. The costumes are colorful with a rich assortment of jewellery. This dance form calls for expression, music and rhythm which is interpreted by graceful movements and gestures.
Mohiniattam is a dance form that represents the culture of the southern state of kerala. In this dance form the dancer is an enchantress whose rhythm and movements capture the heart of the audience.
The dandiya is a popular folk dance that represents the state of Gujarat, located in the western region. Dandiya is performed during the month of Navrathri(nine nights). It is a very vibrant and colorful dance performed by a large group of dancers using sticks or dandiyas.
Kuchipudi is a classical dance form that has very graceful eye, hand and foot movements. The dancer takes you through a mystical journey. Sometimes dancers balance a pot on their head and dance on a plate.
Bhangra is a folk dance that is popular in Punjab and it celebrates the harvest season.
Mohiniattam is a dance form that represents the culture of the southern state of kerala. In this dance form the dancer is an enchantress whose rhythm and movements capture the heart of the audience.
Kathak originated in Northern India. It involves the use of instrumental and vocal music accompanied by the dancer using gestures, hand and foot movements to enact stories from mythology.
Dances of India
Indian mythology and classical literature provide the theme of both Indian classical and folk dance. The most popular dance styles are Bharatnatyam of Tamil Nadu, Mohiniattam and Kathakali of kerala, Kuchhipudi of Andhra Pradesh, Odissi of Orissa, kathak of Uttar Pradesh and Manipuri of Manipur.
Odissi originated in Orissa. The dancer is dressed in a beautiful costume with distinctive jewellery. This dance form uses elaborate eye movements, body postures and foot movements.
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