A walk through India: the famous classical Indian dance forms and their state of origin

Times of IndiaTimes Travel/TRAVEL TRENDS, INDIA/ Created : Apr 29, 2020, 13:59 IST

A walk through India: the famous classical Indian dance forms and their state of origin

You're Reading

Synopsis

A walk through India: the famous classical Indian dance forms and their state of origin

India is one culturally rich country, where almost every state has its own language, cuisine, and dance forms. When it comes to dance, India has traditional, classical, folk and tribal dance styles and all are simply amazing. All the incredible classical dances originated in the country during the ancient times, Bharatanatyam being the oldest and one of the most popular ones. Today, on the occasion of International Dance Day, let’s travel through India via its famous classical dance forms.

1) Bharatnatyam, Tamil Nadu/South India

Bharatanatyam, also known as the mother of all other classical dance styles, is considered as the oldest dance forms in the country India that originated from the temple dancers in Tamil Nadu. The dance is a pure amalgam of expressions, music, beat and rhythm.

More from Travel News

More News

2) Kathak, Uttar Pradesh/North India

Another popular and recognised form of classical Indian dance is Kathak that originated from Uttar Pradesh in north India. This one is derived from the word katha meaning story, and during the whole dance, the dancers narrate stories through their eyes and expressions.

3) Kathakali, Kerala/South India

This one is probably one of the most attractive, dramatic and elaborate forms of classical Indian dance. Kathakali originated in the south Indian state of Kerala, also known as God's Own Country during the 17th century. The artist performing the dance needs to have detailed make-up, wear heavy costumes and, most importantly, work on their gestures.

4) Kuchipudi, Andhra Pradesh/South India

Kuchipudi is considered one of the toughest forms of Indian classical dance that originated in the south Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. The form is considered the toughest because it requires a whole lot of rituals, from lighting the incense sticks to sprinkling holy water and praying to the lord.

5) Manipuri, Manipur/Northeast India

Manipuri dance form originated in the northeastern state of Manipur and is a pure spiritual experience. This is a theme based classical dance form that depicts Raaslila or the romantic act of the Hindu gods Radha and Krishna. Costumes and makeup plays an important role here.

6) Odissi, Odisha/East India

Odissi dance form emerged from the east Indian state of Odisha and is mainly derived from the ancient Hindu temples in Odisha. The whole dance is based on gestures and movements or mudras. The dance is performed to express the mythical stories of the Hindu gods, such as Lord Shiva and Surya. It is also considered as the oldest surviving dance forms of India.