{"id":31467,"date":"2026-10-29T17:55:23","date_gmt":"2026-10-29T12:25:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/?p=31467"},"modified":"2026-10-29T17:55:23","modified_gmt":"2026-10-29T12:25:23","slug":"classical-dances-of-india","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/classical-dances-of-india\/","title":{"rendered":"Classical Dances of India 2026, List With States, 8 Classical Dances"},"content":{"rendered":"<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"><strong>Classical Dances of India<\/strong> are traditional performing arts that integrate movement, music, expression, and storytelling, rooted in India\u2019s cultural and theatrical traditions. They often draw on mythology, devotional literature, regional artistic traditions and narrative expression.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">There are <strong>8 Indian classical dances<\/strong>, which include Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kathakali, Kuchipudi, Odissi, Manipuri, Mohiniyattam, and Sattriya. However, they face challenges such as limited patronage, high training costs, commercialisation, and declining youth participation, requiring stronger institutional support and cultural education.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Classical Dances of India About<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The classical dances of India are a type of performance art that stems from the age-old Hindu theatre music tradition outlined in the Natya Shastra, an ancient Sanskrit literature on performance arts penned by the sage Bharata Muni and dating back to between 200 BC and 200 AD.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The Natya Shastra is regarded as one of the most comprehensive texts ever published on the subject of performance art, covering practically every aspect of it, from stage techniques and costumes to gestures and expressions, and even the metaphysical foundations behind esthetic delight.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<p><strong>Also Check: <a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/dances-of-india\/\" target=\"_blank\">Dances of India<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Classical Dances of India History<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The history of classical dances of India spans thousands of years, reflecting India's religious beliefs, cultural traditions and artistic excellence. From ancient temple rituals to royal courts and modern international stages, these dances have evolved while preserving their traditional roots.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Ancient Origins:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Indian classical dance has deep roots in ancient religious and cultural traditions. Archaeological evidence, temple sculptures and the bronze image of <\/span><b>Nataraja<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">, depicting Lord Shiva as the cosmic dancer, highlight its historical and spiritual significance.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Natya Shastra:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Written by Bharata Muni, the <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Natya Shastra<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (c. 200 BCE\u2013200 CE) systematised the principles of Indian dance, music and drama. It remains a foundational text for classical performing arts.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Temple Traditions:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> During ancient and mediaeval periods, Devadasis performed ritual dances in temples as offerings to deities during religious ceremonies and festivals.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Mediaeval Period:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Royal patronage encouraged the development of dance traditions. Kathak, particularly in North India, incorporated Persian and Central Asian influences during the Mughal period.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Colonial Period:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> The Anti-Nautch movement and anti-Devadasi legislation weakened traditional temple dance practices.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Revival and Recognition:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> In the twentieth century, Rukmini Devi Arundale founded Kalakshetra in 1936. The establishment of the <\/span><b>Sangeet Natak Akademi in 1952<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> strengthened the preservation and promotion of Indian classical dances.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Classical Dances of India Features\u00a0<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The classical dances of India blend Tandava (vigorous movements) and Lasya (graceful expression), using Mudras, Abhinaya, and rhythmic patterns to convey emotions and stories rooted in the Natya Shastra. The following are the key features of Indian Classical Dances:<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Basic concept:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> There are two basic aspects to Indian classical dances: Tandava (movement and rhythm) and Lasya (grace, bhava, and rasa).\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Core Elements:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> The three main components are Natya (the dramatic element of the dance, i.e., the imitation of characters), Nritta (the basic dance movements), and Nritya (the expressive component, such as mudras or gestures).\u00a0<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Rasa: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The nine rasas are love, heroism, pathos, humour, anger, fear, disgust, wonder, and peace. The Natya Shastra, written by Bharata Muni, is the most important source for Indian aestheticians in determining the characteristics of dances.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Structured Movements:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Classical dances follow a specific set of movements and gestures known as Mudras, which are symbolic hand gestures.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Expressive Elements:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> The dances often narrate stories through facial expressions, known as Abhinaya, conveying emotions and themes.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Rhythmic Patterns:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Indian classical dances are accompanied by intricate rhythmic patterns and musical compositions.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">List of Classical Dances of India With States 2026<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Sangeet Natak Akademi, India's National Academy for Music, Dance, and Drama, recognises eight classical dances of India. It is important to note that the Ministry of Culture has recognised nine classical dance forms, including Chhau. The following is the list of Indian classical dances:<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Bharatanatyam<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (Tamil Nadu)<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Kathak<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (North India)<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Odissi<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (Odisha)<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Kathakali<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (Kerala)<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Kuchipudi<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (Andhra Pradesh)<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Manipuri<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (Manipur)<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Sattriya<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (Assam)<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Mohiniyattam<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (Kerala)<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">8 Classical Dances of India<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">India has eight classical dance forms officially recognised by the Sangeet Natak Akademi, rooted in the ancient Sanskrit text Natya Shastra.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Bharatanatyam<\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Bharatanatyam (also known as Sadir or Dasi Attam) is one of the oldest classical dances of India, with origins in Tamil Nadu. It is believed to have evolved over 2000 years ago, drawing inspiration from the ancient Tamil text Natya Shastra, written by Bharata Muni. Traditionally performed by Devadasis in temples, symbolising devotion to deities. In the 20th century, it was revived as a stage art by figures like Rukmini Devi Arundale.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li><b>Source &amp; Codification<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">: Based on performance and aesthetic principles outlined in classics such as Bharata's Natyashastra and enriched by Tamil, Telugu, and Sanskrit compositions; the Tanjore Quartet (19th century), Ponniah, Chinnaiah, Sivanandam, and Vadivelu codified the present recital format.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li><b>Themes:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Based on Nritta (pure dance) and Nritya (expressive dance); focuses on Bhakti (devotion) and Shringara (love); narratives drawn from Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Puranas.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li><b>Music:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Bharatanatyam music is derived from southern India's Carnatic system. The ensemble includes a vocalist, Mridangam, violin\/flute\/veena, and Nattuvanar (conductor with cymbals).<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li><b>Mudras and Postures:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Uses a series of hand gestures known as Mudras to convey meaning and tell stories. One of the most important mudras is 'Katakamukha Hasta', in which three fingers are joined to represent 'Om'.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li><b>Costume &amp; Presentation<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">: Dancers wear silk sarees, temple jewellery, ghungroos, and expressive makeup; typically performed in solo (ekacharya lasyam) style.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li><b>Dancers:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Rukmini Devi Arundale, Yamini Krishnamurthy, Padma Subramaniam, Mrinalini Sarabhai, and others are prominent proponents of Bharatanatyam dance.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Kathak Dance<\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Kathak, the principal classical dance of North India, derives its name from Katha (story) and Kathakar (storyteller). It originated as a narrative art form where storytellers depicted episodes from the epics and Puranic tales to the common people.\u00a0<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li><a href=\"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/mughal-empire\/\" target=\"_blank\"><b>Mughal Empire<\/b><\/a><b> Patronage:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Over time, Kathak flourished under Mughal patronage, acquiring elements of grace and refinement, and later developed further in the princely courts of Lucknow, Jaipur, and Raigarh.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li><b>Footwork:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Kathak is distinguished by its intricate tatkar (footwork) and pirouettes, and it is primarily a rhythm-based dance. A recital begins with Amad, Gat Nikas, Paran, Tatkar, and reflects the dance\u2019s primarily rhythm-based character.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li><b>Music: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Kathak utilises Hindustani music, particularly Thumri, accompanied by instruments such as the Tabla, Pakhawaj, Sarangi, and Sitar.\u00a0 It developed a special connection with Kathak dance in the court of Wajid Ali Shah in Lucknow in the nineteenth century.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li><b>Spins:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> It is characterised by swift chakkars (spins) with rhythmic grace.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li><b>Expressions:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Strong use of abhinaya (facial expressions, hand gestures) for storytelling.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li><b>Costumes:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Elaborate Anarkali-style dresses (women) or kurta-churidar (men), with jewellery and makeup.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li><b>Dancers: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Birju Maharaj, Lacchu Maharaj, Sitara Devi, Damayanti Joshi, etc., are famous Kathak dancers.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Odissi Dance<\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Odissi, a classical dance of Odisha (eastern India), originated as a temple dance performed by maharis. Named after Odra Nritya from the Natya Shastra, it was revived in the 20th century by dancers like Kelucharan Mohapatra as a recognised classical art form.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Source &amp; Theme<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">: Rooted in Vaishnavism; narratives mainly depict Krishna-Radha lore. Lyrics from Gitagovindam and Oriya poetry by medieval and early modern poets form the repertoire.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Mudras &amp; Footwork<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">: Uses mudras and postures to convey emotions; codified footwork includes Pada Bheda, gaits (Chalis), and spins (Bhramaris).<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Postures:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Characterised by fluid movements, graceful postures, <\/span><i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Tribhanga<\/span><\/i><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> (three-bend) positions, and Chowk posture representing masculinity. The torso moves while the lower body is mostly static.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Expressions (Nritya)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">: Hand gestures and facial expressions play a key role in storytelling, portraying grace, sensuality, and beauty; the body forms intricate geometric patterns, giving the style the epithet \u201cmobile sculpture.\u201d<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Costume &amp; Presentation<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">: Dancers wear traditional Odissi sarees, silver jewellery, intricate hair ornaments, and facial makeup.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Famous Odissi Dancers: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Sonal Mansingh and Kelucharan Mohapatra are prominent performers in the Odissi dance.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Kathakali Dance<\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Kathakali, meaning \u201cstory play\", originated in Kerala in the 17th century under royal patronage. It combines music, dance, and drama, primarily depicting stories from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, and is closely related to Koodiyattam.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Themes: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Most Kathakali recitals depict the eternal conflict between good and evil. Its themes are based on stories from the epics and Puranas. It is also known as the 'ballad of the East'. Kathakali songs are written in Manipravalam, a language that combines Malayalam and Sanskrit.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Music: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Music is important to convey the entire drama to the viewers. Different compositions of music are used during performances to give depth to the drama.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Expressions (Abhinaya)<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">: Uses hand gestures and Navarasas (nine facial expressions) to convey emotions; eye and eyebrow movements are central.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Performance: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Staged in open-air theatres or temple grounds; begins in the evening and may continue until daybreak, accompanied by Maddalam drumming.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Costume &amp; Makeup<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">: Characters are distinguished by face colors (green \u2013 heroes\/divinities, red\/black \u2013 villains), large skirts, and elaborate headdresses, reflecting their nature.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Famous Kathakali Dancers: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Ramankutty Nair, Margi Vijayakumar and Kalamandalam Gopi are prominent Kathakali Dance artists.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Kuchipudi Dance<\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Kuchipudi, a classical dance of Andhra Pradesh, originated in the 7th-century\u00a0 Bhakti movement and was named after the village Kuchelapuram. Revived in the 20th century by Balasaraswati, Ragini Devi, and Lakshminarayan Sastri, it evolved into a dance-drama with solo and female performances.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li><b>Technique<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">: Integrates Nritta (pure dance), Nritya (expressive dance), and Natya (drama with mudras); Nritta involves intricate patterns and jatis.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li><b>Themes<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">: Primarily Bhagavata Purana stories; emphasis on Shringara rasa (romantic love).<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li><b>Expressions<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">: Combines speech, abhinaya (mime), and dance; dancers portray multiple characters through rapid mime and symbolic gestures, highlighting movement and emotion.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li><b>Music<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">: Performed to Carnatic music in Telugu, with violin and mridangam as main instruments.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li><b>Famous Kuchipudi Dancers: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Radha Reddy and Raja Reddy, Yamini Krishnamurthy, Indrani Rahman, etc., are famous Kuchipudi dancers.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Manipuri Dance<\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Manipuri, a classical dance of Manipur (northeastern India), is rooted in the Vaishnava faith of the Meitei community. It depicts Radha-Krishna lore, with subtle, circular movements performed primarily by women, and was revived in the 18th century by Raja Bhag Chandra and popularised by Rabindranath Tagore at Shantiniketan.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Themes:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Manipur's temples remain among the primary staging venues for the dance.\u00a0 Primarily based on Radha-Krishna stories, performed in temple settings.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Movement:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Introverted and continuous circular movements; artists do not make direct eye contact with the audience.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Mudra:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Subtle hand gestures integrated into movements; Nagabandha mudra forms the body into an \u20188\u2019-shaped curve.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Expressions:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Subdued facial expressions, even in vigorous masculine dances.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Music:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Accompanied by Sankirtana (Kirtan), pung drum, flute, khartals, and dhol; compositions of Jayadeva and Chandidas are used.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Division: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Two main forms, Jagoi (gentle, lasya) and Cholom (vigorous, tandava); Jagoi is prominent in Ras Leela and votive performances.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Famous Manipuri Dancers: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Famous dancers associated with Manipuri dance include Nayana, Suverna, Ranjana, and Darshana.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Sattriya Dance<\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Sattriya, a classical dance of Assam, was introduced in the 15th century AD by Vaishnava saint Sankaradeva in Sattras (Vaishnava monasteries). Rooted in the Bhakti movement, it combines Nritta, Abhinaya, hasta, and footwork, and primarily depicts Krishna-related devotional themes.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Theme: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Devotional; based on mythological stories of Vishnu. Performed mainly by male monks (Bhokots) during rituals and festivals. Influenced by Assamese forms like Ojapali and Devdasi.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Instruments &amp; Music<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">: Accompanied by khol (drum), manjira (cymbals), and flute, with devotional songs called Borgeets composed by Sankaradeva.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Strict Rules:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Emphasises codified hasta mudras, footwork, rhythmic syllables, posture, and combines Lasya and Tandava elements.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Divisions: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Bhaona-related repertoire: Gayan-Bhayanar Nach to Kharmanar Nach.Independent dance numbers: Chali (graceful), Jhumura (vigorous), Rajagharia Chali, Nadu Bhangi, etc.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Ankia Naat &amp; Bhaona: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Musical dramas in Brajavali (mix of Assamese and Maithili), depicting Lord Krishna\u2019s stories.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Costumes:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Males wear dhoti and pagri (turban); females wear Assamese jewellery (Ghuri), Chador, and Pat silk waistcloths.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Famous Sattriya Dancers: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Famous Sattriya dancers include Jatin Goswami and Anupama Bhuyan.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h3><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Mohiniyattam Dance<\/span><\/h3>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Mohiniyattam, Kerala\u2019s classical solo dance, means \"dance of Mohini,\" the celestial enchantress of Hindu mythology. Developed under the Travancore kings (Kartika Tirunal and Swati Tirunal, 18th\u201319th centuries), it emphasises graceful, feminine movements and subtle expressions, making it ideal for female performers.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li><b>Source<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">: Mentioned in Vyavahara Mala (1709) by Mazhamagalam Narayanan Namboodiri and Ghoshayatra by Kunjan Nambiar.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li><b>Movement<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">: Characterised by gentle, sliding footwork and fluid torso movements; movements are restrained and feminine, borrowing elements from Nangiar Koothu, Kaikottikali, and Tiruvatirakali.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li><b>Focus on Acting<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">: Emphasis on abhinaya, expressing sentiments in Padams and Pada Varnams with a wide facial expression range.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li><b>Gestures<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">: Uses 24 hand gestures based on Hastalakshana Deepika, with elements from Natya Shastra, Abhinaya Darpana, and Balarambharatam; gestures are natural (gramya) and realistic (lokadharmi).<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li><b>Music and Instruments: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Mridangam, Veena, Flute, Kuzhitalam (cymbals), Edakka (primary percussion), and Maddalam rhythms. Dance moves are synchronised with music.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li><b>Costume<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">: Traditional white\/off-white sarees with gold brocade, minimal facial makeup, and Ghungroo (ankle bells).<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li><b>Famous Mohiniyattam Dancers: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Famous proponents include Sunanda Nair, Kalamandalam Kshemavathy, Madhuri Amma, Jayaprabha Menon, etc. The classical dances of India are a testament to the country's rich cultural heritage and artistic expression.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Classical Dances of India Significance<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">The classical dances of India are not merely performing arts; they preserve India\u2019s intangible cultural heritage, regional traditions, mythology, and artistic knowledge through generations. Their significance extends from cultural identity to education, social cohesion, and India\u2019s cultural diplomacy.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<ul>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Cultural Heritage:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Classical dances preserve traditional movements, music, costumes, narratives, and artistic practices, keeping India\u2019s diverse intangible heritage alive.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Transmission of Knowledge:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> The Guru\u2013Shishya tradition enables specialised knowledge, techniques,ues and performance practices to pass from one generation to another.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Spiritual Expression:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Classical dance combines movement, expression, music and narrative to communicate religious, philosophical and mythological themes, linking artistic practice with spiritual traditions.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Livelihood &amp; Artistic Careers:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Training institutions, performances, festivals, scholarships and awards create opportunities for dancers, teachers, musicians and other associated artists.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li style=\"font-weight: 400\"><b>Global Cultural Diplomacy:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Classical dance provides a medium for presenting India\u2019s cultural traditions internationally and strengthening cultural contacts with other countries.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ul>\r\n<h2><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Classical Dances of India UPSC PYQs<\/span><\/h2>\r\n<p><b>Q1:<\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> With reference to Manipuri Sankirtana, consider the following statements: <\/span><b>(UPSC Prelims 2017)<\/b><\/p>\r\n<ol>\r\n\t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> It is a song and dance performance.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Cymbals are the only musical instruments used in the performance.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> It is performed to narrate the life and deeds of Lord Krishna.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Which of the statements given above is\/are correct?<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">(a) 1, 2 and 3.<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">(b) 1 and 3 only<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">(c) 2 and 3 only<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">(d) 1 only<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><b>Ans: (b)<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p><b>Q2: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">With reference to the famous Sattriya dance, consider the following statements: <\/span><b>(UPSC Prelims 2014)<\/b><\/p>\r\n<ol>\r\n\t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Sattriya is a combination of music, dance and drama.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> It is a centuries-old living tradition of Vaishnavites of Assam.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> It is based on classical Ragas and Talas of devotional songs composed by Tulsidas, Kabir and Mirabai.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Which of the statements above is\/are correct?<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">(a) 1 only<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">(b) 1 and 2 only<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">(c) 2 and 3 only<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">(d) 1, 2 and 3<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><b>Ans: (b)<\/b><\/p>\r\n<p><b>Q3: <\/b><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">How do you distinguish between Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam dances? <\/span><b>(UPSC Prelims 2012)<\/b><\/p>\r\n<ol>\r\n\t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Dancers occasionally speaking dialogues are found in Kuchipudi dance but not in Bharatanatyam.<\/span><\/li>\r\n\t<li><span style=\"font-weight: 400\"> Dancing on the brass plate by keeping the feet on its edges is a feature of Bharatanatyam, but Kuchipudi dance does not have such a form of movement.<\/span><\/li>\r\n<\/ol>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">Select the correct answer using the code given below:<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">(a) 1 only<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">(b) 2 only<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">(c) Both 1 and 2<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><span style=\"font-weight: 400\">(d) Neither 1 nor 2<\/span><\/p>\r\n<p><b>Ans: (a)<\/b><\/p>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Classical Dances of India include 8 classical dances such as Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kathakali, Odissi, Manipuri, etc. Read Indian Classical Dances List With States.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":22,"featured_media":31486,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[38,23],"tags":[2169,40,619],"class_list":["post-31467","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","category-upsc-notes","category-upsc-art-culture-notes","tag-classical-dances-of-india","tag-quest","tag-upsc-art-and-culture-notes"],"acf":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/31467","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/22"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=31467"}],"version-history":[{"count":4,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/31467\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":31496,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/31467\/revisions\/31496"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/31486"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=31467"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=31467"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/vajiramandravi.com\/upsc-exam\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=31467"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}