SSC CGL - Detailed Guide 2025
Self-Paced Course
Dance Forms of India
Reference: Lucent GK, NCERT Class 6–12
1. Classical Dance Forms of India
Recognized by the Sangeet Natak Akademi. These dance forms follow codified traditions, rich with expressions (bhava), rhythm (tala), and storytelling (narrative or spiritual).
| Dance Form | State/ Region | Key Features |
|---|---|---|
| Bharata- natyam | Tamil Nadu | Oldest classical dance; temple origins; sculpturesque poses; based on Natyashastra |
| Kathak | North India (UP, Rajasthan) | Emphasis on spins (chakkars), footwork, expressions; evolved in Mughal courts |
| Kathakali | Kerala | Dramatic, colorful makeup; mythological themes; performed by male dancers; facial expressions (navarasa) are key |
| Kuchipudi | Andhra Pradesh | Blend of dance + drama; quick footwork; uses dialogues and vocal performance |
| Odissi | Odisha | Graceful, lyrical; tribhangi posture (three bends); based on Jagannath worship |
| Manipuri | Manipur | Devotional (especially Vaishnavism); soft, rounded movements; Ras Leela themes |
| Mohini- yattam | Kerala | Female solo dance; gentle, graceful; story of enchantress Mohini; lasya style |
| Sattriya | Assam | Based on Bhakti movement (Vaishnavite); introduced by Srimanta Sankardev; performed in Sattra monasteries |
Note: All classical dances integrate three main components: Nritta (pure dance), Nritya (expressive dance), and Natya (dramatic performance).
2. Folk Dances of India
Folk dances reflect local culture, festivals, and communities. These are performed in groups, are energetic, and vary across regions.
| Dance Form | State/ Region | Occasion / Features |
|---|---|---|
| Bihu | Assam | Spring festival (Bohag Bihu); performed by youth; energetic movements |
| Garba | Gujarat | Navratri celebration; performed in circular form around a lamp or deity |
| Lavani | Maharashtra | Performed to dholki beats; bold expressions; often themed on social awareness |
| Ghoomar | Rajasthan | Performed by Rajput women; graceful twirls and colorful attire |
| Rouf | Jammu & Kashmir | Performed by women during Eid/Ramzan; slow footwork; serene rhythm |
| Chhau | Jharkhand, Odisha, West Bengal | Martial-style dance; uses elaborate masks; themes from epics |
Chhau has three main styles: Purulia (WB), Seraikella (Jharkhand), and Mayurbhanj (Odisha).
Lavani is part of Tamasha (folk theatre) in Maharashtra.
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