Classical dances of India have a deep-rooted connection to Indian culture and heritage, reflecting the country’s rich traditions. India is home to the evolution of Indian dance that embodies the culture of the country’s society. As such, they are highly representative of effective communication through physical enactments of various stories, feelings, and ideals. Every woman today embraces the basic attributes of grace and depth in dance in the Indian classical system.
India reveres its classical tradition and the practice of 8 classical dances of India grouped into their geography. These forms include warriors performing with flexible dance bars. They present myth and history with facial expressions, hand locks or blends, and body artistry. Each form has its defining features and is an integral part of Indian culture. Additionally, these classical arts belong to the Indian families of dance and express the emotions called Rasas, which are associated with love, happiness, and even anger that outrage evokes.
| GS Paper | General Studies Paper I |
| Topics for UPSC Prelims | History of classical dances, Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Mohiniyattam, Kathakali, Manipuri, Kuchipudi, Sattriya, Rasas |
| Topics for UPSC Mains | Nritta, Nritya, Natya, Cultural significance, Role in heritage |
Ancient Indian traditions root classical dance as a performance art form. It follows specific techniques, including intricate hand gestures, facial expressions, and rhythmic footwork. India officially recognizes eight classical dances, each with a unique style. These dances draw inspiration from spiritual texts and are often performed in temples or on stages during cultural festivals.
The classical dances of India date back to ancient times, rooted in temple rituals and spiritual practices. The dances evolved under the patronage of kings and emperors, and over time, they became popular forms of entertainment.
The 8 classical dances of India were formalized through the Natya Shastra, written by the sage Bharata Muni. The text laid the foundation for the techniques and rules followed in classical dances today. Over centuries, these dances have adapted to changing times but still maintain their spiritual essence.
The concept of Rasas is essential in understanding the emotions conveyed through classical dances of India. The term Rasa refers to the emotional essence or mood experienced by the audience while watching the performance. Bharata Muni’s Natya Shastra outlines nine Rasas, which serve as the foundation for the emotions portrayed in Indian classical dance:
| Rasa | Meaning |
| Shringara | Love |
| Hasya | Humor |
| Karuna | Compassion |
| Raudra | Anger |
| Veera | Courage |
| Bhayanaka | Fear |
| Bibhatsa | Disgust |
| Adbhuta | Wonder |
| Shanta | Peace |
Each Rasa allows the dancer to evoke a specific emotional response from the audience. For instance, Shringara is often associated with romantic or devotional love, while Raudra portrays anger or ferocity in battle scenes.
India is home to 8 classical dances of India, each representing the cultural and regional diversity of the nation. These dances have evolved over centuries, influenced by regional practices, religious beliefs, and historical events.
| Classical Dance Forms of India | States |
| Bharatanatyam | Tamil Nadu |
| Kathak | Uttar Pradesh |
| Kathakali | Kerala |
| Mohiniyattam | Kerala |
| Kuchipudi | Andhra Pradesh |
| Odissi | Odisha |
| Manipuri | Manipur |
| Sattriya | Assam |
Bharatanatyam is one of the most prominent classical dances of India, originating from Tamil Nadu. It is characterized by its precise, geometrical movements and is often considered the most ancient of the classical dance forms of India. The dance is a form of devotion, with performances dedicated to Hindu deities, especially Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati. Bharatanatyam involves a combination of Nritta (pure dance), Nritya (expressive dance), and Natya (dramatic storytelling). Dancers usually make costumes of rich silk, adorn them with temple jewelry, and wear a pleated sari that enhances their movements. The instruments used in Bharatanatyam performances include the mridangam, flute, violin, and veena. The stories depicted often come from epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata, as well as devotional texts.
Storytellers, or kathakas, traditionally performed the dance form known as kathak in temples to narrate tales from Hindu epics. Kathak, the classical dance of North India, is known for its rapid spins, intricate footwork, and expressive storytelling, which evolved in the courts of North India. The term ‘kathak’ is derived from the word ‘katha,’ meaning story. Over time, it transitioned from temple rituals to a more courtly performance during the Mughal era, where it acquired its distinct Mughal influence, including intricate footwork and elaborate costumes. Kathak dancers wear lehengas or churidars, and ghungroos (ankle bells) are a crucial part of the performance, amplifying the rhythmic footwork. Instruments like the tabla, harmonium, and sarangi are commonly used in Kathak performances.
Hailing from Kerala, Kathakali is one of the most visually striking classical dance forms of India, known for its dramatic makeup, large costumes, and facial expressions. Kathakali performances are intense, often depicting mythological stories from the epics Ramayana and Mahabharata. It is unique in its use of elaborate masks and painted faces, transforming the dancers into larger-than-life characters. Dancers in kathakali undergo rigorous training to perfect their highly stylized movements and facial expressions, which are crucial for conveying emotions. The costumes are elaborate, featuring layers of colorful fabric, headgear, and heavy jewelry. The primary instruments used are the chenda (drum), maddalam, and cymbals.
Mohiniyattam is another classical dance form of India from Kerala, distinguished by its graceful, feminine movements. The dance form is related to the mythological story of Lord Vishnu taking the form of Mohini to enchant and defeat demons. Female dancers perform Mohiniyattam solo, showcasing swaying movements and fluid grace. The costume consists of a white saree with a golden border, and the dancers typically wear minimal jewelry to maintain the dance’s elegant aesthetic. The instruments used in Mohiniyattam include the mridangam, veena, and flute, and the performance focuses on the emotions of love, devotion, and spirituality.
Kuchipudi, from Andhra Pradesh, blends classical dance, music, and drama. Unlike other dance forms, Kuchipudi performances often involve dialogues and singing by the performers. Kuchipudi has dynamic and graceful movements, with a significant emphasis on footwork and expressions. Kuchipudi dancers wear colorful costumes, often similar to those worn in Bharatanatyam, but with a slightly different draping style. The makeup is less elaborate than Kathakali, and the music for Kuchipudi is based on Carnatic classical music. Instruments like the mridangam, violin, and tambura accompany Kuchipudi performances, which often narrate stories from Hindu mythology.
Odissi is the classical dance form of India from Odisha. Its fluid and lyrical movements make it one of the most graceful dance forms. The performances often focus on expressing devotion to Lord Jagannath. The tribhanga posture characterizes the dance style, dividing the body into three parts. The costumes are colorful, and the dancers wear intricate silver jewelry. Musicians use instruments such as the pakhawaj, sitar, and flute to create a melodious background for Odissi. The expressive facial expressions and hand gestures in Odissi are a major aspect of the storytelling.
Manipuri, originating from the northeastern state of Manipur, is deeply spiritual and connected to the worship of Lord Krishna. The dance form has delicate, soft, and graceful movements. Manipuri performances are based on the themes of the life of Krishna and the Raas Leela, making it a devotional dance. The costumes are intricate, with vibrant skirts and veils, and the music is soft and spiritual, often featuring instruments like the pung (drum) and flute.
Sattriya is one of the lesser-known classical dance forms of India, originating in Assam. Srimanta Sankardev, a Vaishnavite saint, introduced the dance form in the 15th century. People primarily performed it in the monasteries (sattras) as a form of worship. People often perform sattriya performances during festivals and spiritual gatherings. They are deeply rooted in religious rituals. People wear traditional Assamese attire as costumes and use instruments like the khol, cymbals, and flute to accompany the dance.
Indian classical dance is a combination of various elements, each playing a vital role in the overall performance:
The classical dances of India are an embodiment of the country’s cultural heritage. From the spiritual expressions of Bharatanatyam to the dramatic performances of kathakali, these dance forms continue to inspire and enthrall audiences. The rich history, deep symbolism, and intricate movements make these dances a vital part of India’s identity. Whether it’s the classical dance of North India or the graceful movements of Odissi, these art forms are a celebration of tradition, creativity, and devotion.
| Classical Dances of India UPSC Notes |
| 1. Classical dances of India are deeply rooted in cultural and spiritual traditions, emphasizing storytelling through dance and expressions. 2. India has eight officially recognized classical dance forms, each with unique regional and cultural significance. 3. Bharatanatyam is one of the oldest and most respected classical dance forms, originating from Tamil Nadu. 4. Kathak is a classical dance form from North India, known for its intricate footwork and storytelling elements. 5. The Natya Shastra, an ancient text, serves as the foundation for the techniques and emotions in classical dance. 6. Rasas, or emotions, are an essential part of classical dance, helping to convey feelings like love, anger, and peace. |
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