9 Classical Dance Forms of India: Complete Details

Classical Dance forms of India are an important part of Indian art and culture. This is a significant topic for UPSC, SSC, RRB, NTPC, and all other competitive exams. Often, 2-3 questions are asked in different competitive exams, and the form of the dance and the name of the person concerned are often asked in the exam.

🏆 Ace Competitive Exams! – Access complete Static GK topics.

Introduction

Different dance styles have developed in different regions of India, each with its own unique characteristics. However, all these dance forms follow fundamental rules and guidelines outlined in the Natyashastra.

The primary rule is that the transfer of knowledge can only occur through a guru. The guru passes on the knowledge of different traditions and communities to disciples. This ‘guru-disciple tradition’ (guru-shishya parampara) forms the core of India’s classical art forms.

Aspects of Dance

• As per Natya Shastra, there are two basic aspects of Indian classical dance.

1. Lasya – It refers to grace, bhava, rasa and abhinaya (acting). It symbolizes the feminine nature of dance as an art form.
   
2. Tandava – It is symbolic of the male aspects of the dance and emphasizes rhythm and movement

Three basic elements of Abhinaya

According to Abhinaya Darpana, a famous treatise on dance written by Nandikeshwar, Abhinaya has been divided into three basic elements:

1. Nritta – It refers to the basic dance steps, performed rhythmically but without any expression or mood.

2. Natya – It means dramatic representations and refers to the story elaborated through the dance recital.

3. Nritya – Nritya refers to the sentiment and emotions evoked through dance.

9 Rasa of Classical Dance

Sl.No	9 Rasas Classical Dance	Attributes
1	Shringaara	Love
2	Roudra	Anger
3	Bibhatsa	Disgust
4	Veera	Heroism
5	Shaant	Peace and Tranquility
6	Hasya	Laughter and Comedy
7	Karuna	Tragedy
8	Bhayanak	Horror
9	Adbhuta	Wonder

Key Points about the dance forms of India

• Natya is an amalgamation of dance, drama, and music.

🔸Natya included:

• Pathya (words) from Rig Veda
• Abhinaya (gestures) from Yajur Veda
• Geet (music) from Sam Veda
• and Rasa (emotions) from Atharva Veda.

• The first formal mention of dance is in Bharata Muni’s famous work Natya Shastra.
• Abhinaya Darpana’s famous treatise on dance, written by Nandikeshwara.

• Indian classical dance forms are based on the instructions in the book Natya Shastra.

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Know about the Classical dance forms of India.

Presently, as per Sangeet Natak Akademi, there are eight classical dance forms in India, namely___

• 1. Bharatnatyam
• 2. Kuchipudi
• 3. Kathakali
• 4. Mohiniattam
• 5. Odissi
• 6. Manipuri
• 7. Kathak
• 8. Sattriya

9 Classical dance forms of India with respective states

Sl.No	Classical Dance Forms	Place of Classical Dance
1	Bharatnatyam	Tamil Nadu
2	Kuchipudi	Andhra Pradesh
3	Kathakali	Kerala
4	Mohiniattam	Kerala
5	Odissi	Odisha
6	Manipuri	Manipur
7	Kathak	North India (Uttar Pradesh)
8	Sattriya	Assam
9	Chhau	Eastern India-Bengal, Jharkhand, and Odisha.

Chhau from West Bengal, Bihar, and Jharkhand is recognized as a semi-classical dance form by the Ministry of Culture. However, it is not listed as the 9th classical dance form. The Sangeet Natak Akademi recognizes 8 classical dance forms, and Chhau is considered a semi-classical dance by the Ministry of Culture.

8 Classical Dance forms of India Map (Recognized by Sangeet Natak Akademi.)

Current Status of the Indian Classical Dances

• Indian classical dances are a treasured cultural legacy, attracting learners from both India and abroad.

• These dances have evolved subtly over time, adapting to changes while maintaining their essence.

• Challenges faced include:
  • Limited time and attention from audiences, possibly due to modern lifestyles.
  • Technological advancements may have overshadowed the significance of traditional elements like mudras (hand gestures).
  • Financial constraints make it difficult to sustain and promote these art forms.

• On the positive side, there’s a growing interest among the youth, which could ensure the continuity of these dances.

• There are eight recognized classical dance forms in India, each with its own regional roots and unique storytelling methods.

• The guru-shishya tradition (teacher-student lineage) is central to learning these dances, ensuring the transfer of knowledge from one generation to the next.

• The pandemic shifted performances to online platforms, affecting the livelihood of dancers but also opening up new avenues for global audiences.

• Youth engagement is crucial for the future of these dances, with many young people showing a renewed interest in learning and preserving these art forms.

These points encapsulate the resilience and ongoing evolution of Indian classical dances in the face of modern challenges and opportunities.

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Facts about the 8 classical dance forms of India

Bharatnatyam Dance

• Oldest among all classical dance forms.
• Bharatanatyam, previously called Sadhir Attam.

• In Bharatnatyam ‘Natyam’ means dance in Tamil.

• This dance form is often called ‘Fire Dance’. Because most of the movements in Bharatanatyam look like dancing flames.

• It expresses South Indian religious themes and spiritual ideas, particularly Shaivism, Vaishnavism, and Shaktism.

• Bharatanatyam traces its origins back over 2000 years, primarily rooted in Tamil Nadu. Initially, this dance form was predominantly practiced by female temple dancers.

Bharatanatyam Costume for women

Two prevalent styles are commonly used in Bharatanatyam costumes for women:

• Skirt (saree) style
• Pyjama Style

Mudras associated with Bharatanatyam

• Pataaka (Flag).
• Tripataaka (three colors)
• Arth pataaka (Half of a flag)
• Kartari Mukha (Scissors)
• Mayurakhyo (A peacock)
• Ardhachandra ( Half Moon)
• Araala (Bent)
• Shukatunda (Parrots head)
• Mushti (Fist)
• Shikara ( A peak)
• Kapittha (Elephant Apple)
• Kataka Mukha (Opening of girl, bird)
• Suchi (Needle)

Important features of Bharatanatyam

• Bharatanatyam, known as the “dance of the flame,” mirrors the dynamism of fire through vibrant and energetic movements.

• It blends the vigor of Tandava and the grace of Lasya, emphasizing intricate hand gestures called mudras.

• Mudras convey narrative and emotions, with the “Kataka Mukha Hasta” symbolizing the sacred syllable “Om.”

• Rooted in the Natya Shastra, Bharatanatyam enlightens audiences with mythological tales and spiritual concepts.

• Accompanied by classical music, Bharatanatyam tells stories while entertaining.

• Dancers wear vibrant costumes and elaborate jewelry to enhance visual appeal and aid storytelling.

• Bharatanatyam is a living tradition, evolving while preserving its classical roots, performed worldwide by dedicated artists.

Instruments used in Bharatanatyam

• Mridangam, which is a double-sided drum,
• Nadaswaram, a long type of oboe made from black wood,
• Nattuvangam, cymbals
• Flute
• Veena
• Violin
• Manjira
• Kanjira
• Surpet

Famous Bharatnatyam Dancers

• Yamini Krishnamurthy
• Lakshmi Viswanathan
• Padma Subramaniam
• Mrinalini Sarabhai
• Mallika Sarabhai

Kuchipudi Dance form

• Originally performed by a group of actors going from village to village, known as Kusselavas.

• Kuchipudi derives its name from the village of Kusselavapuri or Kuchelapuram in Andhra Pradesh.

• Siddhendra Yogi systematizes the tradition of Kuchipudi.

• Most of the Kuchipudi themes are based on the stories of the Bhagavat Purana.

• The Kuchipudi dancers came to be known as Bhagavathalus.

• Kuchipudi dance is generally accompanied by Carnatic music.

• The principal instruments used in this dance are the Violin and Mridangam.

• A unique feature of Kuchipudi is the tarangam, where the performer dances on the edge of a brass plate, skillfully performing intricate rhythmic patterns, sometimes balancing a water pot on his head.

Kuchipudi Costumes

• The male costumes in Bharatanatyam are known as Bagalbandi.

• Women typically wear colorful and vibrant sarees similar to those in Bharatanatyam.

• To enhance the beauty of the attire during movement, a fan-shaped pleated fabric is often incorporated in the front.

• The belt worn around the waist is also an integral part of the women’s dress.

Mudras associated with Kuchipudi

• Pathakam
• Tripathakam
• Ardhapathakam
• Kartarimukham
• Mayuram
• Alapadmam
• Bramharam
• Mukulam
• Hamsasya
• Sandamsham

Musical instruments used in the Kuchipudi

• Mridangam,
• Cymbals,
• Veena,
• Flute
• Tambura

Important features of Kuchipudi

• Kuchipudi is a vibrant dance form from Andhra Pradesh, known for its dance-drama performances.

• It mirrors earthly elements through the human body and features complex and rapid footwork.

• The dance blends Tandava and Lasya, creating a dynamic and expressive narrative.

• Dancers often perform on brass plates, executing intricate movements while balancing.

• Kuchipudi’s repertoire includes dramatic characterization and expressive eye movements to convey story and emotions.

• Elaborate costumes and jewelry enhance the visual spectacle of the dance.

• Rooted in the ancient Hindu Sanskrit text ‘Natya Shastra,’ Kuchipudi is traditionally connected with temples and spiritual beliefs.

• It continues to evolve as a cherished cultural treasure, captivating audiences with its poetic and spirited moves.

Famous personalities related to Kuchipudi

• Radha Reddy
• Raja Reddy
• Yamini Krishnamurthy
• Indrani Rahman

Kathakali Dance form

• Kathakali traces its origins to Kerala, India.

• ‘Katha’ means Story and ‘Kali’ means drama.

• It is closely related to Koodiyattam (Sanskrit drama tradition).

• Its roots can be found in two earlier dance dramas: Ramanattam and Krishnattam.

• Ramanattam and Krishnattam emerged in Kerala temples with the support of feudal lords.

• They are considered precursors to the development of Kathakali.

• An all-male group usually performs Kathakali.

• The language used for Kathakali songs is Manipravalam.

• Manipravalam language is a mixture of Malayalam and Sanskrit.

• These dramas depicted scenes from the Hindu epics Ramayana and Mahabharata.

Navarasam associated with kathakali

• Sringaram (Love)
• Hasyam (Comedy)
• Karunyam (Pity)
• Raudhram (Ferocity)
• Veeryam (Heroism)
• Bhayanakam (Fearfulness)
• Bheebatsam (Disgust)
• Albhutham ( Wonder)
• Shantham (Peace)

Musical instruments used in Kathakali dance

• Chenda,
• Maddalam and
• Edakka

Features

• Kathakali is a male-dominated dance-drama originating from Kerala.

• Performers undergo rigorous training to master the intricate art form.

• Storytelling in Kathakali is primarily conveyed through subtle yet powerful facial expressions, particularly through dynamic eyebrow movements.

• Traditional performances take place in natural, open spaces like temple precincts or simple mats, often against the backdrop of Kerala’s lush landscape.

• Ambient lighting from traditional brass lamps adds to the mystical aura of the performance.

• Kathakali incorporates elements of ancient martial arts, reflecting Kerala’s athletic traditions.

• Elaborate costumes and makeup are integral, transforming dancers into characters ranging from divine beings to demonic creatures.

• The dance form is a synthesis of music, vocal performance, and choreography, harmonizing to narrate timeless stories.

Famous personalities related to Kathakali

• Guru Kunchu Kurup
• Gopi Nath
• Kottakal Sivaraman
• Rita Ganguly

Mohiniyattam Dance form

• Mohiniyattam derives its name from “Mohini,” meaning beautiful woman, and “attam,” meaning dance.

• Mohiniattam narrates the story of the feminine dance of Vishnu.

• Also known as the Dance of an Enchantress, Mohiniyattam is a solo dance performed by women.

• It was further developed by Vadivelu in the 19th century.

• Mohiniyattam gained prominence under the rulers of Travancore in present-day Kerala.

Features

• Mohiniyattam is a classical dance form from Kerala, often called the dance of the enchantress.

• It symbolizes the element of air and is characterized by gentle, flowing movements.

• The foundational steps, called Atavukal or Atavus, consist of a set of 40 basic movements.

• Mohiniyattam features graceful, swaying body movements without abrupt jerks or sudden leaps.

• It adheres to the Lasya style, capturing feminine, tender, and graceful qualities.

• Traditionally performed solo by female artists, Mohiniyattam is known for emotive eye and hand gestures.

• Songs accompanying performances are typically in Manipravala, a mixture of Sanskrit and Malayalam, with Carnatic-style music.

• Dancers wear white or off-white saris embroidered with gold brocade, complementing the ethereal nature of the dance.

• Jewelry worn by Mohiniyattam dancers is classical and understated, enhancing expressions and movements.

• Mohiniyattam serves as a storytelling medium, narrating tales from mythology and folklore through movement, expression, and music.

Famous personalities related to Mohiniattam

• Sunanda Nair
• Kalamandalam Kshemavathy
• Madhuri Amma
• Jayaprabha Menon

Odissi Dance form

• It was primarily practised by the ‘maharis’ and patronized by the Jain King Kheravela.

• The earliest evidence of the Odissi dance form was provided by the caves of Udayagiri-Khandagiri.

• The dance form derives its name from the ‘Odra nritya’ mentioned in Natya Shastra.

• Similar to Bharatnatyam in using Mudras and postures to express emotions.

• Odissi dance is accompanied by Hindustani classical music.

• The main instruments used are Pakhawaj (Drums), Manjira, Sitar, Flute, etc.

• The dance form symbolizes the element of water.

Features

• Odissi is a classical dance form from the eastern coast of India, known for its grace, sensuality, and beauty.

• Dancers skillfully form intricate geometrical shapes and patterns, embodying qualities of water with fluid movements.
• Deeply intertwined with spiritual themes, Odissi portrays stories and mythologies through expressive gestures and emotive facial expressions.

• The repertoire includes nritta (pure dance), nritya (expressive dance), and natya (dance drama), symbolizing the soul’s journey towards liberation.

• Traditional music accompanying Odissi is based on the ragas and talas of Odissi music, complementing lyrical and rhythmic nuances.

• The costume consists of brightly colored silk fabrics, intricate silver jewelry, and special makeup to accentuate expressions.

• Odissi is a celebration of life and elements, connecting dancers with the divine and conveying profound emotions to the audience.

• It stands as a testament to India’s rich cultural heritage, enchanting and inspiring generations of dance enthusiasts globally.

Famous personalities related to Odissi

• Guru Pankaj Charan Das
• Guru Kelu Charan Mohapatra
• Sonal Mansingh

Manipuri Dance form

• Manipuri classical dance belongs to the state of Manipur. Krishna became the central theme of this dance form. Females generally perform it.

• Rabindranath Tagore brought back the dance form into the limelight when he introduced it in Shantiniketan (Birbhum, West Bengal).

• Manipuri dance includes both classical and folk dance forms. Manipuri Ras Leela is one of the main forms of Indian classical dance. Hence, the Manipuri dance, also known as Manipuri Ras Leela.

• Folk dance forms are mainly attributed to regional deities such as Umang Lai, and they are performed during Lai Haraoba.

Costumes of Manipuri Dance

• Female dancers wear “patloi” dresses.

• The lehenga, termed “Kumin,” is intricately woven with mirrors and zari work, forming beautiful designs.

• The lehenga is layered with transparent silk, also known as “Pasuan.”

• The choli (blouse) is embroidered with zari, silk, or gota.

• Female dancers wear a transparent odhni on their heads, covering their faces while allowing their expressions and emotions to be seen.

• Gopis typically dress in red, while Radha is dressed in green.

• Krishna, the male dancer, wears saffron attire.

• Male performers wear a white dhoti, kurta, and turban, with a shawl folded over the left shoulder.

Musical instruments

• Drums
• Cymbals
• String instruments

Mudras associated

• Potaka,
• tripitaka,
• ordopotaka,
• kotokamukh,
• Sondongsa,
• mrigashirsha,
• hongsashya,
• olopollob,
• bhruksa,
• angush,
• ardhachandra,
• kurak,
• Mushti.

Features

• Manipuri dance, originating from Manipur in northeastern India, is known for depicting the Ras Leela, the divine love dance of Radha and Krishna.

• It embodies the Lasya element, characterized by grace, poise, and tenderness, expressed through fluid and rounded movements.

• Unlike other classical Indian dances, Manipuri dancers do not wear anklet bells, and the footwork is subdued and gentle.

• Costumes are unique, with female dancers wearing barrel-shaped long skirts that enhance the visual effect of circular movements.

• Manipuri dance is a spiritual experience conveying devotion and the celebration of life through delicate steps and expressive storytelling.

• It remains a cherished cultural tradition, preserving the rich heritage of Manipur and sharing its beauty with the world.

Famous personalities related to Manipur

• Nayana
• Suverna
• Ranjana
• Darshana
• Guru Bipin Singha
• N Madhabi Devi

Kathak Dance form

• Kathak is the classical dance of Uttar Pradesh.

• It originated in Uttar Pradesh and is considered an important dance form of the 8th classical dance.

• Lady Leela Sokhey revived the classical style of Kathak.

• Kathak is generally accompanied by dhrupad music.

• This dance form narrates the epic stories of Ramayana and Mahabharata.

• Kathak Training Institute Kathak Academy is located in Lucknow

Costumes of Kathak Dance

• Kathak dancers wear a variety of costumes ranging from sarees to Anarkali suits.
• Earrings, necklaces, and bindi hold unique significance in Kathak performances.

Instruments used in Kathak dance

• Flute
• Sarangi
• Sitar
• Tabla
• Pankhwaj

Mudras associated with the Kathak dance

• Tripataka
• Ardhapataka
• Aral
• Padmakosh
• Sarpheesh among others

Features

• Kathak is a classical dance form with roots in Northern India, characterized by its division into Nritya (expressive) and Nritta (technical) aspects.

• Traditionally a solo performance, Kathak has also embraced group performances in recent times.

• It is renowned for its intricate footwork, which serves as both a technical display of talent and rhythmic accompaniment to the music.

• Elements such as Amad (dramatic entrance), Thaat (starting pose), and Tatkar (complex footwork patterns) highlight the significance of footwork in Kathak.

• Dancers wear ankle bells, enhancing the rhythmic patterns of the dance.

• Kathak’s repertoire blends storytelling with technical prowess, conveying narratives through movements, expressive eyes, and nuanced facial expressions.

• Influenced by Hindu and Muslim cultures, Kathak continues to evolve as a dynamic form of artistic expression.

Famous Personalities related to Kathak

• Pandit Birju Maharaj
• Lacchu Maharaj
• Sitara Devi
• Damayanti Joshi
• Ravi Shankar Mishra
• Pandit Jai Kishan Maharaj

Sattriya Dance form

• Introduced by the Vaishnava Saint Sankaradeva in the 15th century AD in Assam.

• The art form derives its name from the Vaishnava monasteries known as ‘Sattras.

• The dance form is based on the mythological story of Vishnu.

• The dance is generally performed by a group of male monks known as ‘Bhokots.

• Main musical instruments used: Khol, Manjira, and Flute.

Costumes in Sattriya dance

• Costumes in Sattriya dance are categorized by gender:
• Male costumes include dhoti, chadar, and paguri (turban).
• Female costumes consist of ghuri, chadar, and kanchi (waist cloth).
• Traditional costumes are typically made of white or raw silk.
• Specific dance numbers may incorporate accents in red, blue, and yellow.

Mudras associated with Sattriya

• Pataka
• Tripataka
• Ardhapataka
• Kartarimukha
•  Mayur

Musical instruments Used

• Khol
• Cymbals
• Flute

Features of the Dance form

• Sattriya is a classical dance form from Assam, traditionally performed by male monks known as ‘Bhokots’.

• It is deeply embedded in the daily rituals and festival celebrations within monastic communities, serving as a medium of devotion.

• Sattriya narrates mythological stories centered around Lord Vishnu and his avatars.

• Characterized by strict adherence to hastamudras (hand gestures), footwork, aharyas (costumes), and distinctive khol drum music.

• It integrates Nritta (pure dance), Nritya (expressive dance), and Natya (dance drama) to create a mesmerizing performance.

• The dance features two styles: Paurashik Bhangi (masculine) and Stri Bhangi (feminine), each with its own characteristics.

• The basic dance unit is the Mati Akhara, with foundational sets subdivided into various sequences.

• Initially performed exclusively by male monks, Sattriya is now performed on stage by both men and women.

• It has two distinct streams: the Bhaona-related repertoire and independent dance numbers.

Famous Personalities related to Sattriya

• Moniram Dutta
• Muktiyar Barbayan
• Dr. Maheswar Neog
• Dr. Bhupen Hazarika
• Ananda Mohan Bhagawati

Chhau Dance 

Chhau is a distinctive Indian dance form that blends elements of martial arts, tribal rituals, and folk traditions. This dynamic dance style, sometimes spelled as Chau or Chhaau, originates from the eastern states of India, particularly West Bengal, Jharkhand, and Odisha.

Three Styles of Chhau Dance

Chhau is performed in three distinct regional styles, each named after its place of origin:

1. Purulia Chhau (West Bengal)
2. Seraikella Chhau (Jharkhand)
3. Mayurbhanj Chhau (Odisha)

Themes and Performance Style

Chhau dance incorporates a range of themes, from celebratory folk traditions to martial art displays, acrobatics, and spiritual narratives. Many performances depict stories inspired by Hindu mythology, particularly from Shaivism, Shaktism, and Vaishnavism.

Costumes and Masks

Each style of Chhau dance has a unique approach to costumes and presentation:

• Purulia and Seraikella Chhau use elaborate masks to represent different characters.
• Mayurbhanj Chhau does not use masks, focusing instead on expressive movements.

Origin and Etymology

The term Chhau is believed to have multiple linguistic roots:

• Some scholars trace it to the Sanskrit word Chāya (meaning shadow, image, or mask).
• Others suggest a connection to Chadma (meaning disguise).
• Renowned scholar Sitakant Mahapatra associates the word with Chhauni (meaning military camp, shield, or stealth in Odia).

Music and Instruments

Chhau dance is accompanied by vibrant folk music, played on traditional instruments like:
🎵 Mohuri, Shehnai, Dhol, Dhumsa, Kharka, and Shadhadi.

Recognition and Preservation

• In 2010, UNESCO recognized Chhau as part of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity.
• The Indian government has established institutions to preserve and promote this art form, including:
  • Government Chhau Center (Seraikella, 1960)
  • Mayurbhanj Chhau Nritya Pratishthan (Baripada, 1962)
  • National Centre for Chhau Dance (Baripada, Odisha) under the Sangeet Natak Akademi.

Chhau remains an important cultural treasure of India, blending storytelling, tradition, and artistic expression into a mesmerizing dance form. 💃🔥

Importance of Classical Dances

• Cultural Preservation: Indian classical dance forms a vibrant tapestry of traditions, with each style reflecting a specific region’s music, language (local or Sanskrit), and attire. This artistic expression keeps India’s rich cultural heritage alive for generations to come.

• Holistic Development: Learning Indian classical dance is a transformative experience. It instills discipline and patience in young learners – essential qualities for success in all aspects of life.

• Physical Fitness: The intricate movements of these dances enhance a child’s physical wellbeing, promoting flexibility, strength, coordination, and posture control.

• Emotional Expression: Dance becomes a powerful tool for self-expression. Young dancers learn to translate their emotions into graceful movements, building self-confidence in the process.

• Mythological Connection: Many Indian classical dances are deeply rooted in mythology. By learning these art forms, children gain valuable insights into India’s literary heritage and the stories that have shaped its culture.

• Social Commentary: Beyond aesthetics, Indian classical dance has the power to address social issues. Through evocative costumes, facial expressions, and rhythmic patterns, dancers can highlight societal challenges and inspire positive change.

About Sangeet Natak Akademi

• Sangeet Natak Akademi or The National Academy of Music, Dance and Drama is the national-level academy for performing arts set up by the Government of India.

• The Indian education ministry set it up on 31 May 1952.
• First chairman: Dr. P. V. Rajamannar. Dr. Rajendra Prasad
• Current Vice-Chairman: Aruna Sairam

• Headquarters of Sangeet Natak Akademi: Rabindra Bhawan, Ferozeshah Road, New Delhi, India

FAQs about classical dance forms in India

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