Traditional Indian Dances

Traditional Indian Dances
India is a land of great mix of cultures, with a wide variety of dances that can range from folk to the classical. The Indian dances all vary as per the region it originates from and each have a distinct style from the steps to the kind of costumes worn. Besides, these also represent a particular culture. The steps are based around a strict style that is followed by the people who know them well. Improvisations come in later. The also makes the use of 'Natya' or acting to portray stories, often of folklore and myth.

Kathak:

kathak

Kathak is characterized with fast footwork and numerous 'chakkars' or spins used in the compositions. This originated from the northern part of India. The name is actually a Sanskrit word which means katha - to tell a story. Kathak, like all other traditional dances of India follow the pattern where the guru passes on the knowledge to the student, also known as the 'shishya'. Kathak is also performed in various styles or Gharanas, such as the Lucknow Gharana, Jaipur Gharana, Rajgarh Gharana and the Banaras Gharana. Today, with the popularity of fusion, Kathak is used combined with newly incorporated steps to keep up with modern times, while still remaining traditional.

Kathakali: 

Kathakali

 The main feature about Kathakali is the striking costumes and makeup. This is a form of dance drama that originated in the Southern state of Kerala. The makeup used is one of the most interesting features of this dance. This is an elaborate procedure, which is combined with a large decorative headgear.


Mohiniattam: 

mohiniattam

This has its origins in Kerala. A very graceful dance, the performance in this case are generally solo and mainly performed by women. This includes very rhythmic movements with elaborate mudras. Mudras are hand gestures used to express a particular meaning.


Bharatnatyam:

Bharatnatyam

One of the popular dances in India along with Kathak, is Bharatnatyam, where it originates from a place in the south known as Tamil Nadu. This uses the base of storytelling combined with pure dance movements. The dance is also distinctive due to the particular styles of dressing and makeup. The origins of this dance go back to the Natya Shastra. In the ancient days, this was performed only by the Devdasis. However, in recent times, this dance is not only popular in India, it has traveled across the globe as well.

Odissi: 

odissi

This classical dance has its origins in Orissa, India and can be distinguished from other styles of Indian dance due to the specific movements of the body. Like all other forms, the knowledge is passed on from the teacher to the student (guru to shishya).

Kuchipudi:

kuchipudi

This classical Indian dance has its roots in Andhra Pradesh. Danced on the accompaniment of Carnatic music, this dance is also gaining popularity outside India. The style may be a little similar to Bharatnatyam, however, there are many unique steps that belong purely to this dance.

Manipuri: 

Manipuri

 Manipuri is quite different from other forms of Indian dance in terms of the costume as well as the steps. The dancer uses subtle movements, basically, using many rhythmic movements that qualify as gentle and simple, without pomp. The costume can be distinguished easily due to the stiff cylindrical skirt.

Sattriya: 

Sattriya

 This style originates from Assam. This was the creation of Sankardeva. As per the records, it's observed that only males perform this dance style. Initially, there was a delay in the inclusion of this style of dance as a traditional Indian dance. However, since 2000, it received the recognition by the Sangeet Natak Academy.


Bhangra:

Bhangra:

 A very lively dance, the Bhangra has its origins in Punjab. The energetic movements, particularly of the men, accompanied by the beating of the drums are a sight to behold. The costumes are colorful and add to the liveliness of the atmosphere. Bhangra music and dance is now incorporated even in pop music and has spread to many areas around the world.

Lavani:

Lavani:

 This folk dance is very popular and was first seen during the Peshwa rule. This dance is accompanied by typical music where the lead dancer is accompanied by a group of other dancers in the background. This has its origins in Maharashtra.

Garba: 

Garba:

This is often compared to the social dances that are seen in the West. Garba is danced in a circular format amongst groups and has its origins in Gujarat. Like other Indian dances, this is performed also for religious purposes. Today, Garba also sees influences from Raas - another traditional dance. The dandiya raas is very popular and is performed with sticks.

Dekhni:

Dekhni:

 Dekhni is one of the popular folk dances of Goa. This dance has an interesting combination of Western as well as Indian music, and is always centered around a girl. The theme is based on a girl who wants to cross the river and needs to persuade the boatman to help her cross the same. The other dancers carry small lit clay lamps.


Bollywood Dance: 

Bollywood Dance:

The Indian film industry (Bollywood) is known for its inclusion of the song and dance routine in most of its movies. Form the olden days till date; there has been a massive change in the styles that are presented. The dances in the olden days were subtle and often incorporated folk dances, or western dancing (as seen in Indian black and white films). However, in recent times, women especially have been given a bold look and there is the merging of discotheque sequences and steps that are very typical of Bollywood. The craze for this song and dance routine is such that there are special shows designed for the fans abroad so that they can get a glimpse of their favorite stars dancing to Bollywood tracks.

This was a glimpse of all the types of dance styles that are performed all across the world. It's interesting to note the different variations and styles that dancers use. The talent has grown exponentially in the past couple of years, with even kids taking the limelight. There is no limit when it comes to dancing, since change and improvisation is at its peak, with dance taking a whole new platform in today's world.