India has a very old and rich tradition of dance. In India Dance has always been an important part of Indian culture, religion, and social life. Even in ancient times, people expressed their emotions and stories through dance. Dance is an art form consisting of sequences of body movements, either improvised or purposefully chosen, with aesthetic and often symbolic value.

How do we know this?

We find proof of dance in:

• Paintings and stories
• Temples and sculptures
• Old books and Vedas

Even from bronze statues found in places like Mohenjodaro and Harappa (2500–1500 BCE), which show dance poses.

One famous example is the bronze statue of a dancing girl from Mohenjodaro, and a broken figure from Harappa that looks like Lord Shiva in Nataraja pose (Lord of Dance).

Dance in Ancient Literature

Dance and music are mentioned in Vedas.where The first ever written records of dance come from the Vedas, in between 2nd century BCE to 2nd century CE a very old Sanskrit book called the Natyashastra, written by Bharat Muni in which we find the real detailed description of dance.

The Natyashastra is known as the 5th Veda.
Why? Because:

• Words from Rigveda
• Music from Samaveda
• Gestures from Yajurveda
• Emotions from Atharvaveda

This book is like a complete guide to Indian dance, drama, and music.

Types of Classical Dance Aspects 

There are two main styles of dance:

• Tandava –  It is linked to masculine energy. This is strong, powerful, bold. 
• Lasya – It shows feminine energy. This is soft, graceful, and gentle. 

Main Elements of Dance

According to Natyashastra, Indian classical dance has three important parts:

• Nritta – Pure dance. Only body movements. No emotion or meaning.
• Nritya – Expressive dance. It shows emotions and tells a story through facial expressions and hand movements.
• Natya – Dance drama. It includes acting, dialogues, and storytelling, like in Kathakali.

What is Abhinaya?

Abhinaya means expression. A dancer uses different tools to express emotions:

• Angika – Body and hand movements
• Vachika – Voice, singing, or speaking
• Aharya – Costume and makeup
• Satvika – Inner feelings, emotions

Navarasas The 9 Emotions a Dancer 

To become a good dancer, it’s important to express these 9 basic emotions (called Navarasa):

• Shringara – Love
• Hasya – Laughter
• Karuna – Compassion
• Veera – Courage
• Raudra – Anger
• Bhayanaka – Fear
• Bibhatsa – Disgust
• Adbhuta – Wonder
• Shanta – Peace

Indian Classical Dance Forms

At this time eight Indian dance forms have been considered as classical dance forms. 

they are:

• Bharatnatyam
• Kathakali
• Odissi
• Manipuri
• Kuchipudi
• Mohiniyattam
• Kathak
• Sattriya

Bharatnatyam 

Bharatnatyam is one of the oldest classical dance forms of India. It started in Tamil Nadu and is believed to be over 2000 years old. Bharatnatyam is the dance that shows emotion, melody, and rhythm together.This dance is not just about movements.it is a beautiful mix of expressions (bhava), music (raga), and rhythm (tala). These three elements are the soul of Bharatnatyam.

The name Bharatnatyam comes from two words:

• Bharata – made from bha (bhava), ra (raga), ta (tala)
• Natyam – means dance in Sanskrit.

Origin and History

In the old period Bharatnatyam was basically performed in temples by Devadasis. the women who dedicated their lives to the temple and dance. They used to perform this dance as an offering to the gods.

Later, Bharatnatyam also reached the royal courts. Kings of the Chola and Pallava dynasties supported and promoted this art.

Important Texts and Sources

The first most popular book that talks about Bharatnatyam is Natya Shastra, written by Bharata Muni around 200 BCE to 200 CE. Another one key text is the Abhinaya Darpana by Nandikesvara, which explains the grammar and body movements in dance.

Theme and Style

Bharatnatyam was earlier known as a feminine solo dance, but today both men and groups perform it. The main theme is love and devotion towards god, a child, or a beloved. It is also known as a fire dance, because it symbolises energy and transformation through body movements.

Development of Bharatnatyam

The Tanjore Quartet, composed of the four Pillai brothers – Chinnayya, Ponnayya, Sivanandam, and Vadivelu  were instrumental in formalizing and developing Bharatanatyam in the 19th century. They introduced different parts of the performance like:

• Alarippu
• Jatiswaram
• Shabdam
• Varnam
• Tillana

These formats are still followed today.Their students formed the Nattuvanars. dance teachers who preserved and passed on the art form.

Role of Music and Costume

Music is a key part of Bharatnatyam. Common instruments used are:

• Manjira
• Kanjira
• flute
• Surpeti
• Tanpura
• Mridangam
• Violin
• Veena

The dancer wears a rich silk costume, usually a dhoti-style dress with pleats in front that open beautifully during movements. Jewelry and expressive makeup are also important.

Parts of a Bharatnatyam Performance

A full performance follows a specific order, mostly as per the Tanjore Quartet:

Alarippu

• This is the opening item, an invocation.
• It has no meaning, but shows the dancer’s control through pure movements.

Jatiswaram

• A pure nritta or dance item with no words, only rhythm and steps.

Shabdam

• This includes expressions (abhinaya) and words. It tells a small story or devotional piece.

Varnam

• The central and longest piece.
• It combines pure dance and expressions.
• Shows complex rhythms, moods, and devotion.

Padams / Javalis / Keertanams / Kritis

• These explore different moods and emotions, especially themes of love—both spiritual and romantic.

Tillana

• A fast and joyful conclusion.
• Based on Tarana in Hindustani music.

Mangalam

• The final item, where the dancer seeks blessings from the gods, gurus, and audience.

Famous Bharatnatyam Artists

Bharatnatyam survived many ups and downs. In the early 20th century, it was seen as immoral by some, but E. Krishna Iyer, a freedom fighter, worked hard to revive it.

Other famous dancers include:

• Rukmini Devi Arundale 
• Yamini Krishnamurthy
• Padma Subrahmanyam
• Mrinalini Sarabhai
• Mallika Sarabhai

Kuchipudi 

Kuchipudi is a beautiful classical dance form from the state of Andhra Pradesh in South India. The name comes from the small village Kuchelapuram in the Krishna district, where this dance first began.

Kuchipudi is deeply connected to the Bhakti movement, which started around the 7th century CE. This dance was not just entertainment.it was a way to express devotion to God, especially through stories from Hindu mythology.

Origin 

Kuchipudi started as a dance-drama tradition, where performers used to act out religious stories in temples and village squares. Over time, this group performance style also became a solo performance on stage.

Style-wise, Kuchipudi falls between Bharatnatyam and Odissi, as it has both the grace of Odissi and the sharp movements of Bharatnatyam.

Style and Technique

Kuchipudi blends three main elements:

• Nritta – Pure dance (no meaning, just steps and rhythm)
• Nritya – Expressive dance (showing emotions through gestures)
• Natya – Dramatic performance (includes dialogue, acting, storytelling)

What makes Kuchipudi different is its use of speech, mime, music, and movements, all mixed together. It often feels like watching a play with dance.

Even though it is now commonly performed solo, Kuchipudi still retains its theatrical roots. Earlier, male Brahmins performed all the roles, including female ones.

Music and Instruments in Kuchipudi

The music used in Kuchipudi comes from Carnatic classical music, the traditional music style of South India.

Common musical instruments used in Kuchipudi are:

• Mridangam (drum)
• Veena and Violin (string instruments)
• Manjira/Thalam (small cymbals)
• Kanjira (hand drum)
• Venu (bamboo flute)
• Tanpura (drone instrument)
• Surpeti (mouth organ for drone)

Structure of a Kuchipudi Recital

A solo Kuchipudi performance follows a fixed order. Let’s look at the main parts of a Kuchipudi recital:

Ganesha Vandana

• A prayer to Lord Ganesha, to start the performance with good luck.

Nritta (Pure Dance)

• Usually, a Jatiswaram is performed here—pure rhythm and movements without any story.

Shabdam (Narrative Dance)

• This is where the storytelling begins.
• Popular examples:
  • Dashaavataram Shabdam – tells the 10 incarnations of Lord Vishnu
  • Manduk Shabdam – the tale of a frog, shown with fun movements and expressions

Kalapam (Dance-Drama Part)

• A full dramatic item with roles, emotions, dialogues, and deep expressions.

Tarangam

• This is the highlight of the performance.
• The dancer balances on a brass plate, locking the feet and gliding it on the stage to rhythmic beats—showing high-level skill and control.

Jala Chitra Nrityam

• A rare piece where the dancer draws pictures on the stage floor with their toes while dancing.

Special Features of Kuchipudi

• Combines Lasya (grace) and Tandava (energy)
• Strong theatrical expression
• Equal focus on rhythm, facial expressions, and storytelling
• Use of brass plate dance (Tarangam) makes it visually unique

Famous Kuchipudi Exponents

Many artists have taken Kuchipudi to national and international stages. Some of the most respected names include:

• Raja Reddy & Radha Reddy – famous couple who helped globalize Kuchipudi
• Yamini Krishnamurthy – known for her grace and expressions
• Indrani Rahman – one of the first Indian women to bring classical dance abroad
• Vedaantam Satyanarayana Sharma – known for preserving traditional Kuchipudi in its original form

Kathakali 

Kathakali is a traditional classical dance-drama of Kerala, known for its powerful expressions, colorful costumes, and mythological themes. The name comes from two Malayalam words:

• Katha meaning story
• Kali meaning dance or performance

This art form beautifully combines literature, music, acting, dance, costume, and makeup. It represents a unique blend of Aryan and Dravidian cultures and is deeply rooted in Kerala’s religious and artistic traditions.

Historical Origin

The roots of Kathakali go back more than 1500 years. It developed from older Kerala traditions like:

• Koodiyattam
• Chakiayarkoothu
• Krishnanattom
• Ramanattom
• Mudiyettu
• Theyyattom
• Sastrakali

Over time, Kathakali evolved into a well-structured and sophisticated dance-drama style.

Main Features of Kathakali

• It is Focuses on mythological stories, mostly from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Puranas
• It is Usually performed by men only, even for female roles
• It is Known for its rich facial expressions, eye movements, and mudras (hand gestures)
• It has No spoken words – everything is conveyed through dance, music, expressions, and signs
• It is Combines nritta (pure dance), nritya (expressive dance), and natya (drama)
• It is Symbolizes the element of sky or ether (Akasha) in nature

Costume and Makeup

The makeup in Kathakali is one of its most striking features. Different colors represent different character types:

Color	Meaning
Green	Nobility, divinity, heroic (good characters like Krishna, Rama)
Red	Royalty, aggressive nature
Black	Wickedness, evil characters (demons, villains)

Characters also wear large headgear, elaborate jewelry, and layered costumes. The makeup and costume transform the dancer into a god, demon, or legendary hero.

Structure of a Kathakali Performance

Kathakali performance follows a specific order. Traditionally, Kathakali performed in open-air temples or courtyards, and the show goes on throughout the night.

Kelikottu

• This is a musical announcement of the performance.
• Drums and cymbals are played in the evening to signal the start.

Todayam

• A devotional number where artists invoke the gods before starting the story.

Purappadu

• A pure dance (nritta) item that introduces the main characters.

Melappadam

• Musicians and drummers perform to showcase their skills and set the mood.

Kalasam

• Fast-paced dance sequences where dancers get a chance to show off their physical talent and control.

The performance of Kathakali proceeds into dramatic storytelling, it shows the fight between good and evil. When it ends at dawn, symbolizing the victory of light over darkness.

Character Types in Kathakali

Characters are broadly classified into three types, based on Gunas (qualities) from Indian philosophy:

• Sattvika – Noble, virtuous, godly characters
• Rajasika – Proud, selfish, royal characters
• Tamasika – Evil, cruel, demonic characters

Music in Kathakali

• Songs used in Kathakali are called Kathakali Padam
• These are poetic verses written in Malayalam or Sanskrit
• Sung in Carnatic ragas by vocalists during the performance
• Accompanied by instruments like:
  • Chenda (cylindrical drum)
  • Maddalam (barrel drum)
  • Chengila (gong)
  • Ilathalam (cymbals)

Training and Skill

To become a Kathakali artist, one needs years of training in:

• Facial expressions (Navarasas)
• Eye and eyebrow movements
• Body control and stamina
• Mudras (hand gestures)
• Kalari Payattu, the ancient martial art of Kerala, is part of Kathakali training

The training is rigorous and begins at a young age. Physical fitness is very important due to the energy-demanding nature of the performance.

Famous Kathakali Artists

Several artists have dedicated their lives to preserving and promoting Kathakali:

• Guru Kunchu Kurup – One of the greatest masters of Kathakali
• Kavungal Chathunni Panicker – Known for blending traditional and modern techniques
• Gopinath – A respected dancer and teacher
• Rita Ganguly – A notable promoter of Indian classical arts

Mohiniyattam 

Mohiniyattam is the classical solo dance form of Kerala, known for its grace, beauty, and soft expressions. The word Mohiniyattam comes from:

• Mohini – the mythical celestial enchantress (female form of Lord Vishnu)
• Attam – meaning dance or graceful movement

Mohiniyattam literally means the dance of the enchantress.

This dance form is performed only by women and is deeply connected to themes of love and devotion.

Origin and Evolution

Mohiniyattam has its roots in temple traditions and mythological stories. It was influenced by two older dance forms:

• Kathakali (also from Kerala) – known for drama and expressions
• Bharatnatyam (from Tamil Nadu) – known for graceful steps and devotional themes

It started as a blend, Mohiniyattam developed its own unique identity as a feminine and gentle dance style.

It reflects Kerala’s natural beauty, with soft movements resembling swaying palm trees, flowing rivers, and calm breezes.

Themes and Meaning

• Mohiniyattam mostly tells stories from Hindu epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
• It also expresses the transformation of Lord Vishnu into Mohini, the female form.
• Another deeper theme is the idea of Ardhanarishwara, a divine combination of male and female energy in one being.

Main themes:

• Love and longing for God
• Victory of good over evil
• Feminine beauty and spiritual power

Style and Features of Mohiniyattam

• Belongs to the Lasya style – meaning soft, feminine, and graceful
• Has no fast or jerky movements
• Movements are smooth, flowing, and wave-like, just like Kerala’s nature
• Focus on mudras (hand gestures) and mukhabhinaya (facial expressions)
• Dancers move in glides and soft toe patterns, not jumps or spins
• Performed solo, by female dancers only

Hand Gestures and Expressions

Mohiniyattam uses around 24 hand gestures (mudras) to tell stories. Most gestures come from:

• Hastalakshana Deepika – followed in Kathakali
• Also draws from Natya Shastra, Abhinaya Darpana, and Balarambharatam

The facial expressions (bhavas) are subtle and soft, focusing on:

• Shringara (love)
• Bhakti (devotion)
• Karuna (compassion)

Music and Costume

• Music is in Carnatic style, but with a unique Kerala touch known as Sopanam.
• Sopanam music is melodious, devotional, and emotional, focusing more on bhava (expression) than on technical swaras (notes).
• Songs are usually in Manipravalam, a mix of Malayalam and Sanskrit.

Costume:

• White or off-white saree with golden border (kasavu)
• Simple, elegant jewelry
• Hair is tied in a bun with jasmine flowers

Symbolism

• Mohiniyattam represents the element of Air (Vayu) in nature.
• Movements feel like a gentle breeze, showing the calm and spiritual side of dance.

Famous Mohiniyattam Artists

Some of the legendary dancers who kept this art alive are:

• Kalyanikutty Amma – known as the first modern Mohiniyattam dancer; she also taught at Shantiniketan
• Krishna Panicker – another great teacher and performer
• Madhavi Amma – respected for her deep knowledge and elegant performances

These artists revived Mohiniyattam and made it popular all over India and the world.

Odissi 

Odissi is one of India’s oldest and most graceful classical dance forms, developed in the state of Odisha. It is often described as sensuous and spiritual, expressing love, devotion, and divine stories through dance.

Odissi beautifully blends emotion, rhythm, and storytelling, and is known for its sculpture-like poses, which mirror temple carvings found in Odisha.

The name ‘Odissi’ comes from the ancient term ‘Odhra Magadha’, a style mentioned in the Natya Shastra, the oldest text on performing arts in India.

Origin and History

• The roots of Odissi go back over 2,000 years.
• Archaeological proof of this dance form can be seen in the Udayagiri and Khandagiri caves near Bhubaneshwar, dating to the 2nd century BCE.
• In ancient times, Maharis (female temple dancers) performed Odissi in temples, especially at the Jagannath Temple in Puri.
• Over time, the dance moved from temples to royal courts. As it declined in spiritual form, Gotipuas (young boys dressed as girls) began performing it in public spaces, keeping the tradition alive.

Themes and Philosophy

• Most Odissi performances are devotional, centered on Lord Krishna.
• Dancers often perform the Ashtapadis (poems) from the Geeta Govinda by Jayadeva.
• Themes include love, separation, surrender, and divine union, shown with deep emotion and grace.

Structure and Elements of Odissi Performance

Mangalacharan

• Opening prayer
• Dancer offers flowers to Mother Earth and seeks blessings from the gods

Batu Nritya

• Pure dance (nritta)
• Shows both masculine (Chowk) and feminine (Tribhangi) movements

Pallavi

• Musical and movement elaboration
• Slow movements that gradually build into complex rhythm patterns

Tharijham

• Similar to Tillana (Bharatnatyam) or Tarana (Kathak)
• A lively and fast-paced dance item focusing on rhythm

Moksha 

• The final item – represents spiritual liberation and joy
• Movements are free-flowing and celebratory

Dance Techniques and Postures

Odissi is famous for its two iconic postures:

Chowk (Square posture)

• A strong, symmetrical pose representing masculine energy
• Body is grounded and balanced

Tribhangi (Three bends posture)

• A feminine pose with the body bent at the neck, waist, and knee
• Symbolizes grace, fluidity, and elegance

Odissi creates a perfect blend of Lasya (grace) and Tandava (power). The dancer smoothly switches between the two, depending on the mood of the story.

Hand Gestures and Expressions

• Odissi uses hand gestures (mudras) to decorate the dance (nritta) and to communicate meanings (nritya).
• These are used to express the nine emotions (navarasa) like love, anger, fear, and wonder.
• Facial expressions play a major role in abhinaya (expression-based dance).

Costume and Makeup

• Costume: A stitched pyjama-style dress made from traditional Odisha silk sarees, usually in bright colors like red, orange, or maroon, with silver embroidery.
• Jewelry: Only silver ornaments are used (unlike gold in other dance forms).
• Hair is styled in a bun and decorated with flowers and a headpiece.

Music in Odissi

• Odissi uses both Hindustani and Carnatic music styles, but the overall sound leans towards Odissi classical music, which is melodious, emotional, and soft.
• Instruments used include:
  • Mardala (drum)
  • Violin
  • Flute (Bansuri)
  • Tanpura

The lyrics are often in Sanskrit or Odia language.

Symbolism

• Odissi represents the element of water (Apas)
• Just like water, the movements are fluid, soft, and flowing
• The dance symbolizes the journey from the human world to the divine through love and surrender

Famous Odissi Dancers 

• Guru Kelucharan Mahapatra – The revivalist of Odissi in the modern era
• Guru Pankaj Charan Das – One of the earliest gurus
• Madhavi Mudgal – Internationally known dancer and teacher
• Rekha Tandon, Sreyashi Dey, and others have also contributed deeply to this art

Manipuri 

Manipuri is one of the most graceful and devotional classical dance forms of India. It originated in the beautiful, green valleys of Manipur, a northeastern state of India. The dance is closely linked to mythology, nature, and devotion to Lord Krishna.

It is deeply spiritual, soft, and expressive. Manipuri is not just a dance—it’s a way of worship and storytelling.

Mythological and Historical Background

• According to legends, Manipuri dance began with the celestial dance of Lord Shiva and Parvati, performed in the Manipur valley.
• It also includes local traditions of Gandharvas—divine musicians of Indian mythology.
• The dance got a new life during the 15th century CE with the rise of Vaishnavism in Manipur.
• Devotional stories of Radha and Krishna became central themes of this art.

Themes 

• Manipuri is a devotional dance form focused mainly on Bhakti (devotion).
• Most dances show the love stories of Radha and Krishna, especially the Raslila – a divine dance of Krishna with Radha and the gopis.
• The dance expresses spiritual emotions like love, longing, separation, and joy.

Main Dance Forms in Manipuri

Raslila

• Most popular form
• Performed in temples or on religious occasions
• Tells the story of Radha, Krishna, and the gopis
• Themes often show the pangs of separation or the joy of reunion

Sankirtana

• A mix of music, dance, and devotion
• Mainly performed by male dancers
• The dancers sing and play instruments like Pung (drum) and Kartal (cymbals) while dancing

Thang-Ta

• A martial art-based dance
• Shows vigorous, masculine movements
• Includes use of swords (Thang) and spears (Ta)

Style and Features of Manipuri Dance

• Combines Lasya (feminine grace) and Tandava (masculine energy)
• Movements are soft, flowing, rounded, and circular—no sharp or jerky actions
• The dancer often uses the Nagabandha posture, where the body forms the shape of the number 8
• Expresses emotions mainly through body language and rhythm, not exaggerated facial expressions
• The footwork is gentle and smooth, unlike other Indian classical dances

Music and Instruments

• Music plays a big role in Manipuri. It uses short but rhythmic compositions like:
  • Swarmala
  • Chaturang
  • Keertiprabandha
• Major Instruments:
  • Pung (double-headed drum)
  • Kartal or Manjira (cymbals)
  • Flute, Violin, and traditional Manipur instruments
• The music style is very rhythmic and devotional, matching the spiritual mood of the dance.

Costume and Makeup

Female Dancers:

• Wear a traditional dress called Patloi
• It is beautifully designed with bright colours, mirror work, and embroidery
• Hair is decorated with flowers and the face is kept natural and soft-looking

Male Dancers:

• Wear dhoti, turbans, and ornaments
• Especially in Sankirtana, they carry Pung or Kartal while dancing

Important Characteristics

• The dance is pure, spiritual, and artistic
• No bold expressions or aggressive movements
• Ideal for religious festivals and temple performances
• Often performed as group dance, especially by women

Element Represented

Manipuri dance represents the element of Earth (Prithvi), signifying stability, devotion, and grace.

Famous Exponents of Manipuri

• Jhaveri Sisters – Nayana, Suverna, Darshana, and Ranjana – helped promote Manipuri across India
• Sohini Ray – A famous modern performer and scholar
• Poushali Chatterjee – Known for her graceful performances and teaching

These artists have kept Manipuri alive and respected on the world stage.

Kathak 

Kathak is one of the most elegant and popular classical dance forms of India. It comes from Uttar Pradesh and is known for telling stories through music, movement, and expression.

The word Kathak comes from the Sanskrit word ‘Katha’, meaning story. So, Kathak literally means storytelling. In ancient times, Kathakars or storytellers would travel from village to village, narrating stories from epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata through music and dance.

History and Development

• Ancient Origins: Started as devotional storytelling in temples by wandering Kathakars.
• Bhakti Movement (15th century): Gave a new spiritual energy to Kathak with stories of Radha-Krishna, based on the poetry of Surdas, Mirabai, Nanddas, and Krishnadas.
• Mughal Period: Kathak entered royal courts and became more refined, stylish, and entertaining. The style blended Hindu themes with Persian influence in music and costume.
• Modern Kathak: Today, Kathak is performed on national and international stages and is loved for its grace, expressions, footwork, and spins.

Gharanas of Kathak (Main Schools/Styles)

Lucknow Gharana

• Origin: Court of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah
• Focus on grace, expression (abhinaya), and poetic storytelling
• Includes thumri, dadra, hori and elegant gestures
• Famous exponent: Pandit Birju Maharaj

Jaipur Gharana

• Origin: Royal courts of Kachhwaha kings in Rajasthan
• Known for strong footwork, complex spins, and powerful rhythm
• Uses pakhawaj compositions (parans)

Banaras Gharana

• Founded by Janaki Prasad
• Special dance syllables called natwari bols
• Less use of spins; more floor movement and unique style

Raigarh Gharana

• Origin: Under the patronage of Raja Chakradhar Singh
• Focus on tabla and percussion music
• Known for innovations and rhythmic creativity

Structure and Elements of Kathak

A typical Kathak performance follows this pattern:

Ananda

• Entry of the dancer; invokes divine energy

Thaat

• Soft, graceful movements of neck, wrists, and eyebrows

Tora, Tukda, Paran

• Small rhythmic dance sequences, each with different styles

Padhant

• Dancer recites the bols (rhythmic syllables) before performing them

Tarana

• Fast-paced pure dance with only rhythmic syllables – like Tillana in Bharatnatyam

Kramalaya

• Grand finale with intricate footwork and rhythm patterns

Jugalbandi

• A fun and competitive musical interaction between the dancer and the tabla player

Salient Features of Kathak Dance

• Intricate and rapid footwork using ghungroos
• Equal balance of the body – no sharp curves like in other classical forms
• Smooth, circular spins (chakkars)
• Powerful rhythmic control and grace
• Great scope for improvisation – dancers can create variations on the spot
• Strong link with Hindustani classical music – uses both Dhrupad and Khayal forms

Costumes and Adornments

For Women:

• Long flared Ghaghra, Choli, and Dupatta
• Hair tied neatly makeup is simple and elegant
• Wears gold or silver jewellery, including earrings, bangles, and waist belts

For Men:

• Dhoti-Kurta or Churidar-Kameez-Vest
• Minimal jewellery, focus on clean look and graceful movements

Essentials:

• Ghungroos (ankle bells) – to highlight footwork
• Tabla or Pakhawaj – main percussion instruments
• Sarangi, Harmonium, and Sitar often accompany the vocals

Themes in Kathak

• Based on Bhakti and Srinagar (romantic and devotional love)
• Tells mythological stories (especially Radha-Krishna leelas)
• Also includes courtly romance, poetry, and seasonal themes

Element 

• Kathak represents the element of Sky (Aakash)
• Its circular spins and uplifting movements show freedom, openness, and vastness

Famous Kathak Dancers (Proponents)

• Birju Maharaj – Iconic figure, modern face of Kathak
• Lacchu Maharaj – Renowned for choreography in films
• Sitara Devi – Known as the Queen of Kathak
• Damayanti Joshi – A leading name in Kathak promotion post-independence

Sattriya Dance 

Sattriya is one of the nine recognized classical dance forms of India. It comes from Assam and was created in the 15th century CE by the great Vaishnava saint and reformer, Srimanta Sankardeva.

He used this dance form as a powerful tool to spread Vaishnavism (worship of Lord Vishnu) in Assam. Originally performed inside monasteries called ‘Sattras’, this dance was part of daily rituals and spiritual storytelling.

Today, Sattriya has come out of the monastery walls and is performed on stage by both men and women across India.

Historical Background

• Founder: Srimanta Sankardeva (1449–1568), a poet, saint, social reformer and cultural icon of Assam.
• Purpose: To narrate stories of Lord Krishna and preach the Bhakti movement using music, dance, and drama.
• Used in: Religious plays known as Ankiya Naat (Assamese one-act plays).
• Performed in: Sattras, the monastic institutions of Assam.

Key Features of Sattriya Dance

Sattriya dance  blends bhakti and grace to share Lord Krishna’s stories, morals, and devotional teachings.

Feature	Description
Origin	Assam
Founder	Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardeva
Purpose	Devotional storytelling, Bhakti message
Traditional performers	Monks (Bhokots)
Modern performers	Men and women on stage
Dance	Blend of bhakti, grace, and discipline
Theme	Stories of Lord Krishna, mythology, and moral teachings

Structure & Elements

Sattriya follows classical rules based on Natya Shastra, but also includes many local influences.

Influences:

• Ojapali – A traditional dance-drama style of Assam
• Devadasi traditions – Temple dances
• Folk dances of Assam – Especially those practiced in local festivals

Performance Types (Nritya Bheda):

Some important sub-forms of Sattriya include:

• Rasa Nritya – Describes the divine dance of Krishna and Radha with the Gopis
• Chali Nritya – Graceful movements based on devotional stories
• Dasavatara Nritya – Depiction of the ten incarnations of Vishnu
• Behar Nritya, Natua Nritya, Jhumura, Sutradhara, etc. – Various storytelling or symbolic dances

Music:

• Uses Borgeets – Devotional songs composed by Sankardeva and Madhavdeva
• Based on classical ragas and have a slow, spiritual rhythm
• Instruments: Khol (drum), Taal (cymbals), flute, and Violin

Dance Costumes and Makeup

• Traditional attire: Made from Assam’s silk fabrics, mainly Muga and Pat silk
• Designs: Simple, graceful, and dignified, reflecting monastic values
• Male performers wear Dhoti, Chadar and Paguri (headgear)
• Female dancers wear a traditional Mekhela-Chadar styled costume
• The makeup is light; focus is more on the bhava (expression) than on glamour

Two Main Dance Traditions in Sattriya

• Gayan-Bhayanar Nach – A musical ensemble with singing and rhythmic dance, often performed during temple prayers
• Kharmanar Nach – Solo or group performance based on dramatic storytelling (more expressive)

Theme

• Based on Vaishnavite Bhakti, focusing on devotion, love, and humility
• Popular themes include:
  • Krishna Leela
  • Ramayana & Mahabharata episodes
  • Moral teachings and spiritual messages

Sattriya and the Classical Dance Status

• Recognized as a classical dance by the Sangeet Natak Akademi in 2000
• It is now one of the nine classical dances officially recognized by India’s Ministry of Culture (the ninth being Chhau)

Indian dance is not just a performance or a form of entertainment. It presents our culture to the world in a new form. There are many different variations in our Indian dance but all of them mean the same thing – to express our emotions. We are connected with our Culture through our dance forms. But in today’s technological world, this art of ours is getting extinct, this needs to be understood.