Indian Classical Dance forms and its history of origination

by Pooja Chauhan Freelance Professional

India is a country of varied cultures. Performing arts such as Indian classical dance is a major element of Indian heritage. India boasts several dance forms originating from various Indian states. The origin point of various Indian classical dance styles is temples. Though each dance sprouted from different states the roots of the art remain the same. The roots of Indian classical dance are traced in the historical text 'Natya Shastra'. Over a period of time, the artists improvised and the classical dance forms of today evolved. Today the Indian classical dance forms are famous across the globe.

BHARATANATYAM

Bharatanatyam is a dance form that is famous for its basic Bharatanatyam steps i.e. fixed upper torso, bending legs, blended with artistic foot patterns and body gestures denoting sign language in elegant connecting facial expressions, It is a well-known classical dance form that is surrounded by Bhav, Rag, Ras and Taal. Also known as 'Sadir' this dance was performed in ancient times by Devadasis in South Indian Hindu temples. In fact, it is also called 'Dasiattam'. Originally, Bharatanatyam took birth in Tanjore and other places of South India, majorly in Tamil Nadu. Perhaps, this is the oldest dance form in India with about 2,000 years of history.

India has treasured this dance form alive till the present time and has given it a respectable place in classical art form especially in the Southern part of the country.

KATHAK

Kathak dance is an art that is framed by spectacular foot patterns and sharp rhythmic components that the dancer keeps revolving within 100 ankle bells.

This elegant dance originated from North India which is also known as 'Kathaa' 'Kahe' therefore anyone who tells stories is known as 'Kathakaar' or 'Kathak'. Famously known as 'Natwari Nrutya'. Kathak is one of the most graceful dances in India. The basic theme of this dance surrounds popular epics such as Ramayan, Mahabharat and Krishna. May it be a solo performance or a group dance, the rightly synchronized dance wins viewers’ hearts.

The significant part of Kathak is ankle moves which are complemented by ankle bells to blend with the music. Therefore it is also popularly known as 'ghungroos' which is the focus of this dance form.

ODISSI

The classical aspect of this art form is focused on the deflection of the hip, posture with body curves and the arching pattern of the hand moves. One of the longest established dances, Odissi is usually performed around the serene atmosphere of Shri Jagannath Temple in Orissa. Therefore you can witness different sculptures in the Odissi poses on the premises of Jagannath temple. This dance depicts a blend of Lasya and Tandav. It is also well-known for being featured in poet Jayadev's admirable creations. The 2 classical styles of Odissi dance are-

i) Maharis (Devadasis or temple girls usually perform this style)

ii) Gotipua ( group of boys perform this form)

Therefore, Odissi dance is widely performed by female dancers and it comprises about 50 fascinating mudras.

KUCHIPUDI

Another classical blockbuster from South India, the Kuchipudi dance is popular for its synchronized foot patterns, extraordinary eye movements and mesmerizing narrative. It is a perfect combination of Lasya and Tandava.

The Kuchipudi initially originated in a palace called 'Kuchipudi' located in Krishna district of Andhra Pradesh in the 3rd century BCE. The Kuchipudi dance evolved as a solo performing art form. This dance revolves around Vaishnavism, Rukmini, Lord Krishna, Satyabhama and other epical folklores. Kuchipudi also has the influence of Bharatanatyam and Odissi dance forms.

It is an art form with a combination of singing and dancing, which is why it demands more dedication than other classical dance forms in India.

SATTRIYA

Sattriya developed in Sattra monastery, as an aspect of the neo-Vaishnavite movement in Assam led by Srimanta Sankardev around the 15th century.

i) Radha-Krishna and related mythological characters.

ii) Famous Sankardev dramas under the mythological genre.

In recent days Sattriya dance is performed by women on stage too.

VILASINI NATYAM

Vilasini Natyam Originated from Andhra Pradesh and is considered as the oldest dance form performed by temple dancers to awaken gods and goddesses. These dancers were known as Devadasis.

There are two types in this dance form, one performed by men is called Purusha Sampradaaya, and one by women stree Sampradaya. This dance is usually performed in public theatres, courts and temples and is also known as Bhogam Aata and Saani Aata. Vilasini Natyam is the oldest dance form that gave birth to many dance forms.

Recently when dancers researched and revived this dance, all the negativity surrounding the art was forgotten and this dance form claimed new respect as the oldest classical dance of India.

These top 6 Indian classical dance forms are not just famous in India but also across the globe. Furthermore, Indian classical dance is one of the finest art forms to learn in an online hobby class. It helps in creating a bond between emotion, mind and body which is quite necessary for a healthy body. Studies have proven that when we learn these classical dance forms in online dancing class it improves concentration as we focus on the postures of the art.

At koachme, we offer exclusive Online Bharatanatyam Classes, Kuchipudi, Odissi, Kathak and other Online dance classes for kids. The best part is kids can begin their learning journey with experienced tutors who have rich classical dance expertise. For more details on online dancing classes, call koachme on +91 99016 78665 today!