India’s rich culture and history has produced a wide variety of dance styles. They are used as a medium to tell stories and convey social values. Indian dance is broadly divided into two categories: classical forms and folk styles, with each having its own unique techniques and meaning. This article examines both the classical and the folk dance forms of India. It includes specific examples, as well as their contemporary relevance.
Classical Dance Forms
The Natya Shastra is an ancient Indian dance text that contains strict guidelines. The dance forms are deeply rooted within religious and spiritual traditions, and they are performed often in temples during festivals and religious celebrations. The classical forms of dance are:
Bharatanatyam
- Tamil Nadu
- The main characteristics of this dance are its bent legs and fixed upper body, as well as the facial expressions, gesture-based sign language (mudras) and intricate footwork.
- Example: Famous Bharatanatyam dancers include Rukmini Devi Arundale and Yamini Krishnamurthy.
Kathak
- Origin: Northern India
- It is known for the storytelling aspect, which involves complex footwork and facial expressions. Both Hindu and Muslim elements are present.
- Pandit Birju Maharaj has been a Kathak Dancer for many years.
Kathakali
- Kerala
- Characteristics include vivid make-up, elaborate costume, well-defined movements and detailed gestures. Based primarily on the Mahabharata, and Ramayana.
- Kalamandalam gopi, for example, is a prominent Kathakali musician.
Kuchipudi
- Andhra Pradesh
- Characteristics : Combination of fast rhythms with fluid movements. Often incorporates a dramatic or narrative element. Acrobatics is required.
- Examples: Yamini Reddy (left) and Raja Reddy (right) are both notable performers.
Odissi
- Odisha
- Characteristics include grace, fluidity, sensuality, and elegance. The dance is characterized by intricate footwork as well as compelling facial expressions.
- Kelucharan mohapatra, for example, is a prominent figure in Odissi.
Classical Other Forms
- ManipuriThe music is a lyrical, gentle style that originates from Manipur. Guru Bipin Singh is an example.
- MohiniyattamThe dance of Kerala is graceful and feminine. It’s usually performed in a calm manner. Example: Sunanda Nair.
- SattriyaAssam is the origin of this dance, which can be seen in many monasteries. Example: Nrityanjali Dance Academy in Assam.
The Folk Dances
Folk dances tend to be community performances that are rooted in the local tradition. They can often be seen at festivals, weddings and other communal events. In India, there are several popular forms of folk dancing.
Bhangra
- Origin: Punjab
- Dances performed at harvest festivals such as Baisakhi are full of energy and celebration.
- Bhangra groups such as the “Vibrance Bhangra group” are known worldwide.
Garba
- Origin: Gujarat
- Characteristics : There is a lot of clapping in a round, as well as rhythmic stomping and swirling. This happens mainly during the Navratri festival.
- Garba night in Vadodara or Ahmedabad is legendary.
Bihu
- Assam
- Characteristics Celebrates Assamese Year with brisk dancing, rapid hand movements and vibrant traditional dress.
- Bihu performance at the Rongali Bihu festivals is a big attraction.
Lavani
- Maharashtra
- Characteristics of this dance: It is known for its strong rhythm, rapid tempo and humorous earthy lyrics, which are often performed by female dancers to the beats of the Dholki.
- Lavani is a common performance in Marathi theatre.
Ghoomar
- Original: Rajasthan
- Characteristics: Women in swirling gowns perform this dance at festivals and weddings.
- Traditional Ghoomar dancing can be observed during Teej Festival.
The Other Folk Dances
- ChhauIt is a dance that originated in Odisha. Jharkhand and West Bengal. The dance is a combination of martial arts and storytelling. Seraikela Chhau Dance Festival is an example.
- Pung CholomThis dance is performed in Manipur and involves fast, acrobatic moves that match the rhythm of a percussion. Exemple: Performed at the Yaoshang Festival.
- Kaalbelia“From Rajasthan performed by the Kaalbelia Community, which is known for its serpent-like dancing movements. Examples: Displayed at different cultural festivals throughout Rajasthan.
Modern Relevance and Importance
The classical dances and the folk forms are both important in maintaining and promoting India’s rich cultural heritage. As globalization takes hold, many initiatives are taken to preserve these dance forms, while encouraging young generations to learn them and perform them. Institutions like the Sangeet Natak Akademi offer a platform for such performances. Bollywood, meanwhile, has integrated many folk and classical elements in mainstream films.
Indian Dance Forms: FAQ
1. What are the differences between folk and classical Indian dances?
Answer: Traditional dances are based on ancient scriptures, and they’re often linked to temple rituals. Folk dances on the otherhand are more celebratory. They can also vary from one area to another.
2. Does formal training in classical Indian dance forms require formal education?
Answer: Most classical Indian dances require formal instruction under an experienced guru. They involve complex techniques, narratives and expressions.
3. Anyone can perform folk dances
Answer: Generally, yes. In general, yes. It is more important to celebrate and participate than perfect technique.
4. Is Indian classical dancing performed outside India
Answer: Absolutely. Indian classical forms of dance are a part of the global scene. International artists and dancers perform these forms at cultural festivals around the globe.
5. How are modern influences changing traditional Indian dance forms?
Answer: Traditional dances are incorporating modern influences, such as contemporary music, dance movements and themes. This helps to keep the dance forms relevant for contemporary audiences but also presents a challenge in maintaining the tradition.
6. The classical dance that uses intricate spinning and footwork is called what?
Answer: Kathak’s intricate spins and footwork are well-known. This classical Indian dance is highly rhythmic and expressive.
7. What are the differences between makeup and costumes in Kathakali?
Answer: Kathakali’s makeup and costumes are essential to its performance. These help portray characters, stories, and emotions vividly. Costumes and face paints communicate character natures and moods.
8. What makes Bharatanatyam sacred?
Answer: Bharatanatyam was originally a dance that devadasis performed in temples as a form of worship. Movements, themes and expressions have deep roots in spiritual tradition, which makes Bharatanatyam a sacred arts form.
9. Is there a government program to promote Indian Dance Forms?
Answer: Through the Sangeet Natak Akademi and the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), which are part of the Ministry of Culture and the Indian Council for Cultural Relations respectively, India organizes cultural festivals and awards scholarships to encourage and support the preservation of both traditional and folk dance forms.
10. What is the impact of globalization on Indian folk dances?
Answer: Indian folk dances face both challenges and possibilities as a result of globalization. Globalization can lead to the loss of authentic dances, but it also gives them a chance to be appreciated by a wider audience.
