classical – Indian Classic Dance

Mohiniyattam is a classical dance form from Kerala, India. Believed to have originated in 16th century CE. It is one of the eight Indian classical dance forms recognized by the Sangeet Natak Akademi. It is considered a very graceful form of dance meant to be performed as solo recitals by women. The word “Mohiniyattam” literally means “dance of the enchantress”.

The dance involves the swaying of broad hips and the gentle movements of erect posture from side to side. In this dance there are approximately 40 basic movements, known as atavukal. The lyrics are in Manipravalam, a mixture of Sanskrit and Malayalam. The performer uses the eyes in a very coy, sensual manner to enchant the mind without enticing the senses.

Manipuri dance is one of the major Indian classical dance forms. It originates from Manipur, a state in north-eastern India. The traditional Manipuri dance style embodies delicate, lyrical and graceful movements. The aim is to make rounded movements and avoid any jerks, sharp edges or straight lines. Manipuri dance is purely religious and its aim is a spiritual experience.

Movements of the body and feet and facial expressions in Manipuri dance are subtle and aim at devotion and grace. The musical instrument used in Manipuri dance like the Pung, a singer, small cymbals, pena and a flute. The lyrics used in Manipuri are usually from the classical poetry of Jayadeva, Vidyapati, Chandidas, Govindadas or Gyandas and may be in Sanskrit, Maithili, Brij Bhasha or others.