List of Classical Dances of India
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| list of classical dance |
India is a land of culture and tradition. Dance is one of the oldest forms of art in India. Every state in India has its own dance style. These dances are full of beauty, music, and storytelling. In this article, we will learn about the list of classical dances of India state wise. You can also get a free PDF at the end. 📖✨
What Are Classical Dances?
Classical dances are special dance forms that follow rules, history, and traditions. These dances are not only about fun but also about learning and discipline. They tell stories from history, epics, and nature. 💃
Why Learn About Classical Dances?
- They show the rich culture of India.
- They connect us to history and mythology.
- They keep our traditions alive.
- They are performed all around the world.
List of 8 Classical Dances of India
India officially has 8 classical dance forms. Let’s look at them state wise. 🌏
1. Bharatanatyam – Tamil Nadu
Bharatanatyam is one of the oldest dances. It started in Tamil Nadu. It shows stories from the Hindu gods. The dancers wear colorful clothes and move their hands and eyes to show feelings.
2. Kathak – Uttar Pradesh
Kathak is famous in North India, mainly Uttar Pradesh. It is known for fast footwork, spins, and storytelling. It often tells stories from Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Krishna’s life. 🎶
3. Kathakali – Kerala
Kathakali is from Kerala. Dancers wear big costumes, heavy makeup, and headgear. It is like drama with dance. The eyes and hand signs show deep emotions. 🎭
4. Kuchipudi – Andhra Pradesh
Kuchipudi is from Andhra Pradesh. It mixes dance, acting, and songs. Dancers often perform on a brass plate while balancing a pot on the head. 🎤
5. Manipuri – Manipur
Manipuri is from Manipur in the northeast. It is soft and graceful. The dance is mostly about Lord Krishna and Radha’s stories. 🌸
6. Odissi – Odisha
Odissi is from Odisha. It is one of the oldest dances. The dance shows stories of Lord Jagannath and Radha-Krishna. Dancers make poses like temple sculptures. 🛕
7. Mohiniyattam – Kerala
Mohiniyattam is another dance from Kerala. The word “Mohini” means a beautiful woman. The dance is slow and graceful, full of soft movements. 🌺
8. Sattriya – Assam
Sattriya is from Assam. It was first performed in monasteries. It is linked to bhakti songs and stories of Lord Vishnu. 🙏
State Wise Classical Dance List of India
Here is a simple list of classical dances and their states:
| State | Classical Dance |
|---|---|
| Tamil Nadu | Bharatanatyam |
| Uttar Pradesh | Kathak |
| Kerala | Kathakali, Mohiniyattam |
| Andhra Pradesh | Kuchipudi |
| Odisha | Odissi |
| Manipur | Manipuri |
| Assam | Sattriya |
Download Free PDF
Want to save this list? You can download the “Classical Dances of India State Wise PDF” for free. This will help students, teachers, and anyone interested in Indian culture. 📚
Benefits of Learning Classical Dance
- Keeps the body fit and healthy 💪
- Improves balance and flexibility
- Makes the mind calm and focused 🧘
- Connects us to culture and history
- Improves confidence and stage presence 🎤
Fun Facts About Classical Dances
- Bharatanatyam is more than 2000 years old.
- Kathak dancers wear ankle bells called ghungroos.
- Odissi poses look like temple sculptures.
- Kathakali makeup can take 3-4 hours. ⏳
- Sattriya was once performed only by monks.
Conclusion
India is full of rich dance traditions. Each state has something unique. From Bharatanatyam in Tamil Nadu to Sattriya in Assam, every dance tells a story. These dances are not just art but also a way of life. 💃🕺
Call to Action
If you love Indian culture, learn more about these dances. Share this article with your friends. Don’t forget to download the free PDF of the List of Classical Dances of India State Wise. ✅
FAQs
Q1: How many classical dances are there in India?
India has 8 official classical dances.
Q2: Which is the oldest classical dance?
Bharatanatyam from Tamil Nadu is the oldest.
Q3: Which states have two classical dances?
Kerala has Kathakali and Mohiniyattam.
Resources / Citations
- Ministry of Culture, Government of India
- India Tourism Board
- NCERT Culture and Heritage Books