Beautiful Classical and Folk Dances of India

• 2021-06-03 11:03:14

1. Bharatanatyam- It is the most popular and extensively performed of all the classical Indian dance styles, having originated in Tamil Nadu temples. The movements of the Bharatanatyam dance, which is considered a fire dance, mimic a dancing flame. Bharatanatyam is the most ancient of all the classical Indian dance styles, and it is most popular in South India. The dance art is famed for its exquisite body motions and gestures, which are termed Mudras in the old language, and is performed to the celestial tones of Carnatic music. It centers on the dancer's hand gestures, leg movement, and facial expressions. This dance is traditionally a solo dance form that can be performed by either male or female dancers and is distinguished by two features: lasya for feminine motions and tandava for masculine moves. This dance has been performed by groups in more recent times.
2. Kathak- Its name comes from the word "katha," which means "tale in English." Kathak is thought to have started in North India at the royal houses of Uttar Pradesh, where Kathakars (storytellers) would travel to different locations to narrate stories from ancient texts such as the Ramayana, Mahabharat, and Lord Krishna stories using dance, music, and songs. The elements that describe the story—emotional facial movement with aspects of mime included in the movements—define this dance form. The movement of the feet is the main focus. This dance is performed with the dancer's ankle bells under control. Kathak is known as the "love dance" because it can be performed by both male and female dancers at the same time. Ankle bells, also known as ghungroos in the native language, are an integral aspect of this dance form's discipline. As it is done in different parts of the country, such as Jaipur, Benaras, and Lucknow, many distinctions may be seen in this dance form.
3. Kathakali- Kathakali is one of India's most well-known and holy dance styles, hailing from Kerala in the southern part of the country. Its origins can be traced back to the Ramayana and Shiva myths. Kerala, in southwest India, is the birthplace of this dancing form. Audiences are taken on a visual trip in this dance form, which is distinguished by theatrical makeup and lavish costumes. Colors are used to describe several elements. Men dress up as ladies in order to represent female characters. Kathakali is traditionally performed at night and lasts into the morning. To perform this dance genre, a kathakali dancer must have complete focus skills, and endurance. Captivating face expressions, massive costumes, classic face masks, and the dancer's body are all characteristics of this dance form. To contribute to the dramatic impression, angry and malevolent characters wear red makeup, women have yellow faces, and the dancers wear huge headdresses.
4. Kuchipudi- This classical dance genre originated in Andhra Pradesh's Krishna region. Its name comes from the hamlet of Kuchelapuram, and it resembles Bharatanatyam in appearance. Kuchipudi is undoubtedly the most difficult type of classical dance in India; the performer must sing as well as dance, which necessitates far more ability and dedication than any other Indian art form. Kuchipudi used to be a male-dominated dance, but now more women than men do it. The Kuchipudi dance technique communicates a storey through well-controlled, fluid, graceful, and rapid movements that bring the work to life. Lord Krishna, Rukmini, Satyabhama, and other Hindu gods and goddesses have inspired Kuchipudi themes. Kuchipudi is more than simply a dance; it is a religious procedure dedicated to God that includes rites such as sprinkling holy water, burning incense sticks, and praying to God.
5. Manipuri- Manipuri, also known as Jogai, is a major style of Indian classical dance that originates in the Indian state of Manipur. Because of its relative distance from other influences, Manipur has been able to preserve its distinctive indigenous customs. This dance form is associated with ceremonies and traditional practises, making it one of the most meaningful of the dances. This dance genre is strictly religious, and it is used to tell the storey of the Hindu gods Radha and Krishna's amorous romance, which is known as RaasLeela. Manipuri combines the tandava and lasya movements, just as Bharatanatyam. There are no abrupt, swift motions in this dance; it is smooth and fluid. In comparison to other dance forms, the dresses are highly distinctive. The male dancer wears a dhoti, also known as dhora or dhortra, that is vibrant and colourful. From the waist, it covers the lower torso. He also wears a crown with a peacock feather on it. Kumil, an adorned, barrel-shaped long skirt with a hard bottom, is a female dancer's most unusual dress. The visual presentation usually includes a dance-drama, cymbals, and drums.
6. Odissi- The ancient dance has its origins in Odisha's Hindu temples. This dance, which originated in the Indian state of Odisha, features distinct motions that set it apart from other classical Indian dance forms. The majority of the gestures and movements (Mudras) are influenced by sculptors and idols from India's ancient temples. Stamping of the foot and stunning sculptural positions characterise it, as does the importance of dynamic, more curved movement of the head, chest, and pelvis (Tribhangi). To some extent, Odissi is based on Natya Shastra and the Abhinaya Darparna. Facial expressions, hand and eye motions, and motions of other body parts are all used to portray feelings. The ancient tales of Hindu gods such as Surya and Shiva are intended to be expressed through this dancing genre.
7. Mohiniyattam- Mohiniyattam dates back to the 16th century CE. The Sangeet Natak Akademi has named Mohiniyattam as one of the eight Indian classical dances. Vaishnava devotees are thought to have given the dance the name "Mohiniattam," which was previously performed by Devadasis. Legend has it that Lord Vishnu, disguised as a Mohini, enchanted the people. Mohini means "maiden" and Yattam means "dance" in this traditional dance, which is performed by a single female dancer. Because it incorporates aspects of both Bharatanatyam and Kathakali, Mohiniyattam is a hybrid of the two dances. The delicate and beautiful motions, as well as the fascinating eye motions, make this dance particularly elegant.
8. Sattriya- Sankaradeva, a Vaishnava saint and reformer of Assam, established the Sattriya dance form in the 15th century A.D. as a means for spreading the Vaishnava faith. Later on, the dance form developed and spread into a distinct type of dance. Sattriya is the term given to this dance style because of its religious nature and link with the Sattras (Vaishnava mathematics or monasteries). This tradition includes two unique streams: Bhaona-related repertoire, which runs from Gayan-Bhayanar Nach to Kharmanar Nach, and independent dance pieces, such as Chali, Rajagharia Chali, Jhumura, Nadu Bhangi, and so on. In terms of hasta mudras, footworks, acharyas, and music, the Sattriya dance tradition is governed by a set of rules.

1. Rouf, Jammu & Kashmir- Rouf is a calming dance form primarily done by female dancers to traditional Kashmiri music, and it is done by the Kashmiri people to celebrate their festivals and important occasions. Its origins can be traced back to Kashmir's Muslim population. It was gradually adopted by all of the valley's communities. The dance is performed by women dressed in magnificent clothes and set to traditional music. Simple footwork is used in the dance, which is also known as Chakri in the local language. Rouf is usually performed to commemorate the spring harvesting season. Only a few singers are required to accompany the funny folk dance at such an informal event. Traditional instruments such as Rabab are played in the background during theatrical performances.
2. Chhanak Chham, Himachal Pradesh- The Lahaul-Spiti region is where this type began. This dance form is performed as a tribute to the Divine Lord Buddha or in his remembrance. Chham dance is a magnificent dance performed by Buddhist monks, known as Lamas, in the courtyards of monasteries as part of religious and other events. It is known for its colourful headdresses, costumes, and masks. Their costumes are golden, black, and gold in colour and are sleek and lustrous. The chanak is the name for the headpiece. In comparison to other dances that include slow circular moves, this Himachal dance is graceful. The villagers assemble to watch this amazing dance spectacle, popularly known as the ‘Devil Dance’.
3. Nati, Himachal Pradesh- Himachal Pradesh's most famous dance style is nati. It is also the world's largest folk dance, according to the Guinness Book of World Records. It originated in districts such as Kullu and Shimla and spread throughout the state. Dev Nati is another name for it. Among the folk dances of Himachal Pradesh, there are numerous variations of this dance that differ by location. It is traditionally performed to the beats of Dhol-Damau instruments. The most popular is Kullu Nati. It comes in thirteen different forms and is primarily performed during the Dussehra holiday. The dancers are dressed in bright tunics and swing to the beat of the music.
4. Bhangra, Punjab- Bhangra is the most well-known dance form in Punjab, as well as the rest of the globe. Bhangra is a traditional Punjabi dance genre that developed in the Majha district of Punjab. Bhangra was originally intended for harvesting, but it evolved throughout time as a result of modernisation, new musical instruments, and evolving dance forms. The intensity of Bhangra, which is accompanied by a traditional Punjabi Dhol and Jhanjhar, has progressively spread throughout all Indian states. Bhangra attire consists of a lungi and a buttonless jacket. The dancers also wear handkerchiefs of various colours. The Pug (turban) is a symbol of Punjabi pride. It is usually performed by women in traditional Salwar-Kameez and Chunni.
5. Giddha, Punjab- Punjabi young women perform Giddha. The dance has a bright ambiance and is a display of women's power and vitality. It's also not restricted to a specific period of time. Any social event can be used to perform the dance. This dance is a descendant of the ancient dance known as ring dance. It exemplifies Punjabi women's strength and liveliness. It is a vibrant dance genre in which a group of women dance together in traditional Punjabi clothes of various colours. While performing the Giddha, the song "Boli" or "Boliya" is sung to express feelings.
6. Ghoomar, Haryana- The Ghoomar dance is a traditional Haryana folk dance that is prevalent in the state's western regions. The performers' circular moves distinguish this dance from others. Ghoomar is a traditional dance performed by girls from the state's border region. This dance is performed by dancers who move in a circular pattern while clapping and singing. The females sing while dancing in a swirling motion, and as the music's tempo picks up, the girls form pairs and swirl faster and faster. While the dancers spin about in pairs, the accompanying songs are full of sarcasm, humour, and references to current events. During festivals such as Holi, Gangaur Puja, and Teej, this dance is performed.
7. Ras Leela, Haryana- Lord Krishna, an incarnation of Lord Vishnu, is honoured in this dance. The Gopis, or Braj's maids, are said to be the best examples of human beings, according to Krishna. In the Braja area of Faridabad district, the dance is highly prevalent and immensely popular. The maids dance in spiritual ecstasy around Lord Krishna's idol in a circular motion in this dance. The dance's pace is so flawless that the dancers' anklets, bangles, and bells generate a tinkling sound in perfect synchronisation. Around Lord Krishna, the dancer sways their body in total joy.
8. Pandav Nritya, Uttarakhand- Since the Pandavas travelled to this hill kingdom in pursuit of the staircase to heaven, Devbhoomi is also known as "the land of the Pandavas." The birth and death phases of the Pandavas kingdom are presented through numerous dance forms in this dance form, which is like a homage to these prominent Mahabharat characters. The folks here dress up portraying various Mahabharat scenarios and present them to the public. It's similar to Ram Lila in that it's managed to preserve local folklore alive among the locals. It is primarily performed in a vast area on the sacred eves of Diwali and Dussehra, with a big number of dancers performing in unison, and it is a sight to behold.
9. Choliya, Uttarakhand- The Choliya dance is mostly performed in Uttarakhand's Kumaon region. It is well-known in the Kumaon districts of Almora, Pithoragarh, and Champavat. The Sword Dance is another name for it. It refers to the Kumaoni tribe of Uttrakhand's traditional martial art practise. It's a 2,000-year-old dancing form that's mostly seen during Rajput weddings and festivals.
10. Charkula, Uttar Pradesh- One of Uttar Pradesh's most magnificent folk dances, particularly popular in the Braj district in western Uttar Pradesh. A veiled woman dancer performs with 108 oil lights on her head balanced on a wooden pyramid platform in a difficult act of balancing. The songs were written primarily to honour and worship Lord Krishna, who was born in this area.
11. Raslila, Uttar Pradesh- Many of us are familiar with Raslila, which was first introduced to us in the Bhagwat Gita through epic narratives. Lord Krishna danced and sang with the gopis on the banks of the Krishna River in the Vrindavan region during the Raslila. This art genre is particularly popular in western Uttar Pradesh, and it depicts Krishna's life stories from childhood through youth.
12. Kalbeliya, Rajasthan- Kalbeliya is a UNESCO-designated Intangible Cultural Heritage performed by the ladies of the namesake tribe. Women dress up in traditional garb, such as angrakha (a jacket-like garment), odhani (veil), and a black swirling ghagra (long skirt), and dance sensuously and sinuously to the music played by men on traditional instruments like the dholak (two-headed hand drum), khanjari (percussion instrument), and so on. Because the dancing moves resemble those of a serpent, it is also known as "Snake Charmer dance" or "Sapera dance."
13. Ghoomar, Rajasthan- Rajasthan's folk dance tradition has recently gained international recognition. The dance includes beautiful movements like clapping and waving the hands, as well as whirling. It began in the Bhil society and was first performed as a kind of entertainment for kings. It is now performed at festivals and social gatherings. Women dance to various traditional musical instruments while wearing colourful ghagra cholis and odhanis (veils). Ghoomar is one of the finest local folk dance forms in the world, and it keeps audiences captivated.
14. Dandiya, Gujarat- Gujarat's most popular dance is the colourful Dandiya. This dance form is so well-known that it is done not just in the state but all around India. It's also known as the "stick dance," and it's a type of dance that's one of the most popular festivals, Navratri. This dance form depicts a mock battle between the Goddess Durga and Mahishasura, the powerful demon. Traditional attire for women includes bright embroidered cholis and ghagras, while men wear turbans and kedias. Garba is traditionally performed before Aarti to worship the Goddess, while Dandiya is played after it as a celebration.
15. Matki Dance, Madhya Pradesh- Women from the Malwa region of the state perform the Matki Dance. It's a solo dance performed by a woman with her face hidden under her veil. While dancing, she balances a decorative pot on her head. Later in the dance, some of the other women join in the chorus to complete the show. Aada and Khada are two further versions of the Matki dance genre.
16. Pandavani, Chhattisgarh- Another distinct Chhattisgarh folk dance is the Pandavani. You might be astonished to learn that this folk dance is known as the Chhattisgarh folk dance's black horse. Another noteworthy feature of the Pandavani dance form that distinguishes it from others is that the dancers attempt to recreate the storey of the Pandavas, the key players in the epic battle of Mahabharat.
17. Lavani, Maharashtra- This is one of Maharashtra's most popular dances. Lavani is derived from the word "lavanya," which means "beautiful." This dance is performed by women in nauvari, or a nine-yard saree, which is their traditional costume. Women dance to the beats of the dholak, which is a drum-like instrument. It's wonderful to see women gracefully drape this nine-yard saree and dance to rhythmic tunes.
18. Andhra Natyam, Andhra Pradesh- The Andhra Natyam is one of the earliest traditional dance genres in Andhra Pradesh. This dance form was on the edge of extinction during the colonial and Mughal empire eras, but was thankfully restored in the twentieth century. This dance style is related to Tamil Nadu's Bharatanatyam, but it has a separate history, originating in Andhra Pradesh.
19. Theyyam, Kerala- Theyyam is a prominent dance form from Kerala's Malabar area. Theyyam and its ceremonies have been practised in this region for thousands of years. It is quite popular since it is available to those from lower castes. It is a sacred ritual dance and a Dravidian art form dedicated to Goddess Kali. The word 'Theyyam' is considered to be a distorted variant of the Malayalam word 'Daivam,' which means God.
20. Koothu, Tamil Nadu- It is a street celebration where people perform music and dance at festivals and weddings. It takes place on an open field at a crossroads of three to four streets. Men usually participate in it, and they also play women's parts. The event will involve storytelling, singing, dance, and theatre, among other things. Special attention is paid to the way you look and how you seem. The event starts in the late evening and lasts till the morning.
21. Perini Sivatandavam, Telangana- Perini Sivatandavam, also known as Perini Thandavam, is a mediaeval dance style. During the Kakatiya dynasty in the 12th century, it was discovered. Lord Shiva is associated with this dance form. This is a warrior dance done by men to the beat of bells, conches, and drums. As they danced tandava in front of Lord Shiva's idol before proceeding to the battlefield, it is thought that the dance instilled prerna (inspiration) in the soldiers. As a result, Perini Sivatandavam was born. It praises ‘Om' and incorporates five elements: fire, water, air, earth, and wind.
22. Ghumura, Odisha- The Ghumura folk dance is thought to have originated in the Indravati canal valley and spread to the surrounding areas from there. One of Odisha's folk dances is Kalahandi's Ghumura. It wasn't initially recognised as a separate dance style due to its many derivations from mainstream classical dance styles, but it has now developed its own identity as a result of its popularity.
23. Chhau, Jharkhand- This is a popular Jharkhand dance form that is mostly done at night in any open place, field, or ground. Because the dance form symbolises numerous Gods, the dancers only perform this dance after taking a bath. To lighten up the atmosphere, the dancers surround the dancing area with "mashaals." However, in certain areas, electric lights have since taken their place. The dancers also wear chhau masks, which are large colourful masks. A Nritya Natika, or dance drama, is the most common style of dance. Instruments such as Nagara drums, flutes, and other instruments are frequently used to illustrate myths and stories from the Ramayana and Mahabharata.
24. Jat Jatin, Bihar- Folk dancers from Koshi and Mithila commonly perform Jat Jatin. It is performed by a pair telling a narrative. It can also illustrate socioeconomic reasons such as floods and other natural disasters. Dancers may also use a mask to portray a realistic image. This dance form beautifully depicts the husband-wife connection.
25. Bihu, Assam- During the Bihu festival in Assam, the traditional Bihu dance is performed. Traditional and colourful clothing is worn by the locals. This dance features both male and female dancers. Drums, which are originally known as dhol and are played with a single stick, are an important part of this dance. The dancers dance in a circle or in a straight line to the beat of the dhol. The swaying and graceful motions of the arms and torso are highly coordinated in the dance.
26. Gambhira, West Bengal- It is a traditional and devotional type of dance that is one of West Bengal's folk dances. This dance is performed by Goddess Shakthi's fervent worshipers. This dance has experienced numerous alterations over time, resulting in the Muslim community becoming its custodian. The dancers' emotions are expressed through their conversations and signature lines, which are repeated by the chorus. Throughout the dance, the dancers wear masks. This dance is losing its lustre, yet it is still performed and organised by Rajshahi residents. This dance has its roots in the Malda community of West Bengal. This folk dance started out as an agricultural dance, but as time went on, it evolved into a religious dance.
27. Maruni, Sikkim- The Nepalese dance Maruni is one of the most popular and oldest. This holiday is also known as Diwali, which means "Festival of Lights." This lovely dance is also performed at weddings. Maruni dancers wear brightly coloured clothes with a lot of embellishment. A clown known as 'Dhatu Waray' usually attends Maruni dancers. 'Naumati Baja,' a nine-piece orchestra, has been known to perform at times.
28. Dances of Nagaland- Dance is the intense, elevated pleasure, enthusiasm, and delight for the Naga people. They take pleasure in every moment of the beautiful experience that dance provides. Several tribal dances from the state include Changsang, Monyu Asho, Kukuyipheto, Melo phita, Angushu kighilhe, Rukhyo Sharu, Khupielili, Akok-khi, and Langnyu- Khiamtsangshe.
29. Cheraw, Mizoram- The majority of Mizoram's dances are performed during the festival season. These folk dances are usually performed in groups. The most well-known name for Cheraw dance is "Bamboo dance." Bamboos are employed in the dance's performance, and the dance is named after them. The bamboo dance of Mizoram is performed by both men and women.
30. Dances of Meghalaya- The Khasi people, Meghalaya's main tribe, celebrate their indigenous festivals with traditional music and revelry. Some of their music includes sounds from nature, such as a waterfall, bird cries, bug sounds, buzzing bees, and more. Births, weddings, anniversary celebrations, and more are all celebrated with dancing in Meghalaya. The Meghalayan dances are shad sukmysiem, shad n?ngkrem, der?gata, d? Dru Sua, lah?, etc.
31. Dances of Tripura- Tripura's music and dances depict the people's outpouring of emotions associated with harvest, worship, and, in some cases, wars and marriages. Diverse cultures have various dances with different costumes, ornamentation, and so forth. Popular dances include Garia, Lebang Boomani, Bijhu, Hozagiri, Gajan, Dhamail, Cherawlam, and others.
32. Dances of Manipur- Manipuri dance has a long history that surpasses recorded history. Manipuri is not, however, the sole prominent dance genre in the Northeast state. Manipur's popular dances include Ras Leela, Pung Cholom or Drum Dance, Sim Lam, Luivat Pheizak Dance, and Thang Ta.
33. Dhalo, Goa- This is one of Goa's most well-known rural folk dances. After supper, a group of over a dozen ladies gather in the courtyard of a house to dance to folk songs with a variety of religious and social themes. Overall, this folk dance is full of joy and pleasure. Seeing a live show is a fantastic option.