Traditional Dance culture in India | Represent Hindu Mythology & Spirituality
Dance in India signifies the ancient tradition of our culture. A classical dance training & meaning for expression practice is documented and traceable to ancient classical text, particularly the Natya Shastra.
Indian classical dance requires studies of classical texts, physical exercises and extensive training to systematically synchronize the dance repertoire with play or composition, vocalists and Orchestra.
Indian classical dance forms:
It’s believed that classical dance forms enact stories from Hindu Mythology. In Indian culture we have many dance forms coming from different states. But there are 8 forms of classical dance recognized on a national level.
Bharatnatyam - It is a classical dance form of Tamil Nadu state. This dance is usually accompanied by classical carnatic music. Bharatnatyam has been a solo dance that was performed exclusively by women which express spirituality and religious themes of Shiva, Vishnu and Shakti.
Kathakali - Kathakali is one of the most renowned and religious dance forms of India originated from Kerala. This dance form also represents storytelling. It indicates the tales of Ramayana and Shiva stories. Kathakali includes the intriguing face movements, heavy costumes, face mask and body paints.
Kathak - Kathak derives from the Sanskrit word ‘Katha’ which means ‘Story’. It’s often referred to as the dance form of Love. It can be performed by both male and female dancers together. Kathak originated from the northern state of India Uttar Pradesh.
Kuchipudi - Originated from the southern Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. According to history, Kuchipudi dancers were all males who would play the roles of men and women in the story after dressing appropriately.
Odissi - Odissi dance form originated in Odisha state of India. This dance form expresses religious and spiritual stories particularly of Lord Vishnu. According to history this dance form is predominantly performed by women.
Manipuri - This dance form originated in the North-east state Manipur. This dance form represents the romantic relationship between the Lord Krishna and Radha, which is famously known as Raasleela.
Sattriya - Sattriya dance form introduced in the 15th century AD by Mahapuresha Sankaradeva, a Vaishava Saint who is the reformer of Assam. This dance was an artistic way of presenting mythological teachings.
Mohiniyattam - This dance form originated from Kerala. The meaning of Attam in Malayalam is rhythmic motion hence adhering to the dance of the divine enchantress. According to mythology, Mohini is the female avatar of Lord Vishnu.
Also read - Four Yugas of Hinduism