Indian classical dance is a very beautiful and engaging form of art. It has been a part of ancient traditions and mythology. It is a form of dance where movements are delicate and gestures expressive, representing a specific region's unique cultural identity. The beauty of the storytelling in these dances enchants the viewer.
It has its origin in the Natya Shastra. Many performances are choreographed to retell stories of the gods and other historical accounts. All styles of Indian classical dance are vibrant, expressive, and spiritual.
Contemporary classical dance forms evolved from the musical play or sangeet-nataka performed from the 12th to the 19th century. The two basic aspects of Indian classical dances are Tandava (movement and rhythm) and Lasya (grace, bhava, and rasa).
The three major components include Natya, which is the dramatic element, Nritta, the simple dance movements, and Nritya, which is the expression component.
The Sangeet Natak Academy recognizes eight classical dance forms. Chhau has been included by the Ministry of Culture, Government of India, which brings the total number to nine classical dance forms.
| Dance | State of Origin | Description |
| Bharatanatyam | Tamil Nadu | Traces its origins back to the Natyashastra. It is characterized by bent legs, while feet keep rhythm. Hands may be used in a series of mudras, or symbolic hand gestures, to tell a story. It was originally a temple dance for women and often expresses Hindu religious stories and devotions. |
| Kathak | Northern India/Uttar Pradesh | Narrates tales through rhythmic gestures. There are four main Gharanas, or schools of Kathak dance: Jaipur, Lucknow, Raigarh, and Benares. The music of traditional Kathak consists of the Thumri and other lyrical song-forms, and the essential musical instruments are the Tabla, Pakhawaj, and Sarangi. |
| Kathakali | Kerala | A captivating dance drama. |
| Kuchipudi | Andhra Pradesh | Seamlessly blends dance, drama, and music. |
| Manipuri | Manipur | Also known as ‘Jogai’. It was traditionally performed as a dance – drama on devotional songs. It showcases the love between Radha- Krishna through Raaslila. It is a combination of two cultures: Indian and South-East Asian. While Ghunghroos (bells) glorify the classical dances of India, they are not worn in Manipuri. |
| Mohiniyattam | Kerala | Exhibits grace. |
| Odissi | Odisha | Celebrates devotion. |
| Sattriya | Assam | Reflects unique regional traditions. |
Classical dances typically take place at festivals, universities, and cultural events. Dancers are usually professionals who have devoted years of study and practice. They move to the beat of the music, and in some styles like Kathak, bells are worn around the ankles for added rhythmic effect. Dancers embody the character they are portraying and become emotionally connected with the story and the audience.
Dancers wear traditional clothes including sarees, lehengas, and kurtas. The costume for women usually consists of a long, colorful, handmade gown with embroidered patterns and beading. Accessories include ornate jewelry such as necklaces, rings, earrings, nose-rings, bracelets, and anklets. Women typically wear considerable facial makeup to be noticeable and to fully embody their character.
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