India dance

India, a culturally reverberating land of music, dance and drama has always stood out for its distinctiveness. Here, the music and dance are not mere activities but revered art forms, which are breathed and lived.

Natyashastra is India’s earliest treatise on dramatics, dance and music. As per Natyashastra; Natyadhrama and Lokdharma are the principal codes of dance drama. Natyadhrama places emphasis on the imaginativeness while Lokdharma underlines on realism on part of dancers. The text also mentions that Brahma created this form to give joy to the gods who were engrossed in their cosmic functions

The other works on India dance are Bharatarmada, Abhinaya Darpan, Malavikagnimitra, Sangita Ratnakara and several others.

The Sangeet Academy of India, the premier body of performing arts in India set up by Government of India recognizes eight classical dance forms:

• Bharatanatyam
• Kathak
• Kathakali
• Kuchipudi
• Manipuri
• Mohiniaattam
• Odissi
• Sattriya

It is important to note that Indian classical dance forms are guided by certain set of codes, rhythm and expressions. Each of these dance forms from the different states of India carry with them the inherent soul and spirit of the state.

Besides these India has a rich heritage of folk dances such as Bhiu, Bhangara, Dhumal, Garba, Jhoomar etc, which are the expressions of the rural populace. These dances are performed on occasions such as harvesting, childbirth, marriages etc. The graceful movements and rhythm of the folk dances are the major attractions for tourists. It should be remembered that our folk theatres have a direct link with the folk dances.