List of Indian Classical Dances and Their States of Origin

Indian classical dance is a very beautiful and fascinating art form. It has always been a part of ancient traditions and myths. This is a form of dance in which movement is subtle, gesture expressive, representing a unique cultural identity in a particular region. The beauty of storytelling in these dances fascinates the audience.

It originated in Natya Shastra. Many performances were arranged to retell stories of the gods and other historical records. All styles of Indian classical dance are full of vitality, expressiveness and spirit.

Modern classical dance forms performed from musicals or Sangeet-Nataka from the 12th to the 19th century. Two basic aspects of Indian classical dance are Tandawa (movement and rhythm) and lasya (grace, bava and Lhasa).

These three main components include Natya, which is the dramatic element, NRITTA, simple dance movement and NRITYA, which is the expression component.

Sangeet Natak Academy recognizes eight classical dance forms. Chhau has been included in the Ministry of Culture of the Government of India, which brings the total to nine classical dance forms.

dance

Origin status

describe

Bharatanatyam

Tamil Nadu

Drawing its origins back to Natyashastra. Its characteristic is the bent legs while the feet maintain rhythm. The hand can be used in a series of mixes or symbolic gestures to tell a story. It was originally a temple dance for women, often expressing religious stories and devotions of Hinduism.

Keitak

Northern India/Uttar Pradesh

Tell the story through rhythmic gestures. There are four main schools of Gharanas or Kathak dance: Jaipur, Lucknow, Legal and Benares. The traditional kathak music consists of Thumri and other lyrical song forms, the necessary instruments are Tabla, Pakhawaj and Sarangi.

Casa Kali

Kerala

Charming dance drama.

kuchipudi

Andhra Pradesh

A seamless blend of dance, drama and music.

Manipuri

Manipur

Also known as “Jogai”. Traditionally, it is a drama of dance-devotional songs. It shows the love between Radha-Krishna through Raaslila. It is a combination of two cultures: India and Southeast Asia. Ghunghroos (the bell) glorifies classical dance in India, but is not worn in Manipuri.

Mohiniyattam

Kerala

Show grace.

Audis

Odisha

Celebrate dedication.

Satria

Assam

Reflects unique regional traditions.

Classical dance is usually held at festivals, universities and cultural events. Dancers are usually professionals who have been studying and practicing for many years. They turn to the rhythm of the music, and in certain styles like kathak, the bells surround the ankles to increase the rhythmic effect. The dancers embody the characters they portray and are associated with the story and the emotions of the audience.

Traditional clothes worn by dancers include sari, lehengas and kurtas. Women’s clothing usually includes long, colorful handmade clothing with embroidered patterns and beads. Accessories include gorgeous jewelry such as necklaces, rings, earrings, nose rings, bracelets and ankles. Women usually wear considerable facial makeup to clearly and fully reflect their character.