Classical dances are those which
are based on ancient dance discipline or traditional form of dance and have
rigid rules for presentation. The main classical dances in India
are:
Bharatanataym
This dance is having its origin in Tamil Nadu and it is a temple dance
performed at the time of worship.
Kathakali
This is the dance cum drama of Kerala, which is usually performed in the
open and lasts the whole night.
Kathak
This is the principal classical dance of North India in which the
emphasis is on foot work and swift movement of the body.
Kuchipudi
This is the dance cum drama from Andra Pradesh. The performance
usually begins with some stage rites, after which each of the characters arrive
on stage and introduces himself with a daru (a small composition of song and
dance) to introduce identity, establish the rule of spirit, the character in
the drama.
Manipuri
This is the dance which is performed by the people of north-east
especially by people from Manipur. It involves movement of head,
hand and foot in harmony and is performed by men and women together.
Mohini Attam
This the classical dance from Kerala. The dance
involves the swaying of broad hips and the gentle movements of erect posture
from side to side. This is reminiscent of the swinging of the palm leaves and
the gently flowing rivers which abound Kerala, the land of Mohiniyattam.
Odissi
This is the classical dance from Odisha. The marginal
figures of dancers show women in poses and movements similar to the distinctive
style of Odissi.
Chakiarkoothu
This is the classical dance is believed to be from
Kerala.
Ottam Thullal
This is a solo classical dance from Kerala, also known as
poor man’s Kathakali.
Yakshagana
This is the classical dance cum drama from Karnataka.
