Indian Dance

Indian Dance, specifically, the classical dance of India, one of the most highly developed arts of Indian culture. It was an integral part of Sanskrit dramas, a mode of worship performed in the inner shrines of every temple, and a courtly pastime. Over the last few centuries, colonization and urbanization contributed to a decline in the art, until a program for its revival was launched early in the 20th century. Although bharata natyam, kathakali, kathak, and manipuri are considered the principal schools of Indian dance, some argue that Odissi and other forms should also be included. Of these schools of dance, bharata natyam, which originated in southern India, is the most significant. It is based on the principles set down in the Natya Shastra, a handbook on dramaturgy that was supposedly written about AD 200 by a Hindu sage, Bharata Muni, according to instructions from the god Brahma. One of the most complete dance sciences in existence, bharata natyam incorporates a rich variety of movements. These movements include hand gestures, for which Indian dance is noted; facial expressions; head movements; and foot rhythms. The gestures have a variety of meanings, ranging from depictions of concrete objects to those of abstract concepts. Some of the most beloved dances of this style are the padams, slow dances that accompany lyrical poems about love. In modern times bharata natyam is usually performed by women as a solo.

Kathakali, the dance dramas of the Kerala region of India, are virile, masculine performances. The movements are explosive, accompanied by an incessant drumming that begins before the performance and lasts throughout the drama. The makeup is grotesque, requiring several hours to apply, and the costumes are elaborate. During the drama the dancers do not speak, but hand movements and mime are so varied as to constitute a complete sign language. Kathakali performances usually begin with a peaceful love scene. The dance takes all night and builds to a violent climax by dawn.

Kathak, a dance style of the north of India, where the powerful Mughal dynasty ruled in the 16th and 17th centuries, is a subtle dance that emphasizes footwork and speed. Kathak is decorative rather than interpretive; the themes of the kathak style are often erotic.

Manipuri, the fourth major school of Indian dance, originated in the northeastern state of Manipur, where Hindus fled from Muslim persecution. The dancing, which has remained remarkably free of outside influence, is noted for its graceful turning and swaying. The most notable dances of this school are the Rasa lila dance operas, which are centered on the heavenly dance of Lord Krishna amusing himself with his milkmaids.