CUET GK TOPICS: 8 Classical Dance Forms of India

1. BHARATANATYAM (Tamil Nadu)

• Bharatanatyam is one of the oldest classical dance forms of India, originating in the temples of Tamil Nadu.
• It is known for its fixed upper torso, bent legs, intricate footwork, and expressive hand gestures and facial expressions.
• The dance is traditionally performed as an expression of devotion to Hindu deities, especially Shiva.

2. KATHAK (Uttar Pradesh)

• Kathak originated in northern India and was developed by storytellers known as Kathakars.
• It features fast footwork, graceful spins (chakkars), and rhythmic gestures, often accompanied by classical Hindustani music.
• Over time, Kathak evolved into a court dance during the Mughal era and includes both devotional and romantic themes.

3. KATHAKALI (Kerala)

• Kathakali is a highly stylized classical dance-drama that originated in Kerala.
• It is known for its elaborate costumes, colorful makeup, dramatic facial expressions, and vigorous movements.
• The stories performed are mostly based on the epics Ramayana and Mahabharata.

4. KUCHIPUDI (Andhra Pradesh)

• Kuchipudi is a classical dance form from Andhra Pradesh, combining dance, music, and acting.
• It includes both graceful movements and expressive storytelling, with dancers sometimes speaking or singing parts of the performance.
• The dance often depicts themes from Hindu mythology and is traditionally performed as a dance-drama.

5. ODISSI (Odisha)

• Odissi is a classical dance form from Odisha, known for its lyrical grace and sculpturesque poses.
• It features the Tribhangi posture, which divides the body into three bends: head, torso, and hips.
• Most Odissi performances are devotional and centered around Lord Jagannath, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu.

6. MANIPURI (Manipur)

• Manipuri is a classical dance form from the northeastern state of Manipur, characterized by its soft, flowing movements and gentle expressions.
• The dance often depicts episodes from the life of Lord Krishna, especially his love for Radha.
• It maintains a spiritual and serene atmosphere, avoiding vigorous or exaggerated movements.

7. MOHINIYATTAM (Kerala)

• Mohiniyattam is a graceful classical dance from Kerala, traditionally performed by women.
• It is known for its smooth, swaying body movements and subtle facial expressions.
• The dance portrays the theme of a woman performing as Mohini, the female avatar of Lord Vishnu, and often expresses love and devotion.

8. SATTRIYA (Assam)

• Sattriya is a classical dance form from Assam, created by the saint and reformer Srimanta Sankardeva in the 15th century.
• It was originally performed in monasteries called sattras by male monks as part of religious rituals.
• The dance narrates stories from the life of Lord Krishna and is performed with devotional music and expressions.