Indian Dance Forms: Classical Styles and Their Revival

Introduction

India's classical dance tradition represents one of the world's oldest continuous performing art forms, with origins traced to the Natya Shastra attributed to Sage Bharata (circa 200 BCE–200 CE). The Sangeet Natak Akademi currently recognizes eight classical dance forms, each with distinct repertoire, costumes, and regional roots.

The Eight Classical Dance Forms

1. Bharatanatyam (Tamil Nadu)

Originating from Tamil Nadu's temples, Bharatanatyam was traditionally performed by devadasis. Key features include:

• Margam repertoire: Alarippu (invocation), Jatiswaram (pure dance), Varnam (centerpiece), Padam (expression), Tillana (conclusion)
• Key postures: Araimandi (half-seated position), distinct hand gestures (mudras) from Abhinaya Darpana
• Revival figures: E. Krishna Iyer (rescued from social stigma), Rukmini Devi Arundale (founded Kalakshetra in 1936)
• Notable exponents: M. S. Subbulakshmi, Alarmel Valli, Malavika Sarukkai

2. Kathak (North India)

Evolving from Ras Leela and influenced by Mughal courts, Kathak emphasizes rhythmic footwork (tatkar) and spins (chakkar).

• Three gharanas: Lucknow (expression, nazaakat), Jaipur (rhythmic virtuosity), Banaras (charm, intricate footwork)
• Pioneers: Sitara Devi, Birju Maharaj, Shambhu Maharaj, Pandit Lachhu Maharaj
• Contemporary revival: Efforts by institutions like Kathak Kendra (Delhi) to preserve traditional compositions

3. Kathakali (Kerala)

Classical dance-drama from Kerala, known for elaborate costumes and makeup (aharya abhinaya).

• Character types: Pacha (noble heroes), Kathi (villainous nobles), Kari (demonic females), Minukku (female/ascetic)
• Training: Kalaripayattu (martial arts) integration, extensive eye exercises
• Revival: Kalamandalam institution (founded 1930 by poet Vallathol Narayana Menon)

4. Kuchipudi (Andhra Pradesh)

Originally performed by Brahmin men as dance-drama from Kuchipudi village.

• Key features: Speedy footwork, sculptural poses, dramatic narrative
• Notable items: Tarangam (dancing on brass plate), Krishna Shabdam
• Exponents: Vedantam Lakshminarayana, Raja & Radha Reddy, Swapnasundari

5. Odissi (Odisha)

Dedicated to Lord Jagannath, with sculpturesque poses inspired by temple carvings.

• Key features: Tribhangi (three-bend posture), Chauka (basic square stance), fluid upper body movements
• : Reconstructed from temple manuscripts and sculptures; efforts by Guru Mayadhar Raut, Kelucharan Mohapatra, Sanjukta Panigrahi