DANCES

A solo dance, originating from the temples of South India, it is a based on Natya Shastra, written by Bharat Muni in around 4000 BC. It is a highly traditional dance form comprising items such as alarippu, varnam, padam, thillana, etc.

OdissiIt is a dance form that originated in Orissa during the second century BC. It is also based on the principles of Natya Shastra.

ManipuriManipuri is a dance form popular in the north-east. It is a highly lyrical and ritualistic dance but lacks dramatic facial and gestural expressions.

KUCHIPUDIKuchipudi is a solo dance popular in Andhra Pradesh. It is also based on the principles of Natya Shastri. Traditionally it was performed by men attired like women.

KathakIt is a popular dance of North India which originated in temples in North India in the form of Radha and  Krishna Lilas. With the advent of Muslim rule, it came out of the temples to Mughal courts. Lucknow, Jaipur, and Varanasi became its centers.

KathakaliIt is a popular dance from Kerala, Which is more dramatic than narrative in form. It is considered to be the most scientific dance form. The body gestures, hand movement, and eye/eyeball movements comprise its language.

MohiniattamIt is a solo dance form Kerala. It is also the heir to Devdasi dance heritage similar to Bharatanatyam, Odissi, and Kuchipudi.

Uttam ThullalAlso known as poor man’s Kathakali; it is a solo dance which originated in Kerala