Indian dance styles based on legends, mythologies and devotional themes are divergent in their technique. At the same time there is a central motif running through them : the theme of devotion expressed though the heroine that is the dancer to the hero who is none other than God himself.

» Bharat Natyam

Bharata Natyam is believed to be one of the oldest dance forms of India, because it is the form which is based on a large extent, on ancient texts written on this form of dance. For centuries it was danced by 'devadasis' in the temples of South India. Movement, mime and music contribute in equal measure to this beautiful dance from Tamil Nadu. It is a solo dance which is devotional in spirit. Highly stylised and sophisticated in its technique, Bharata Natyam is evenly divided between nritta, pure dance, and nritya, expressional compositions. The songs pertain mostly to the theme of love but not sensual love. These are given an elevated and somewhat spiritual flavour.

'Mohiniattam' is one of the major graceful classical dance styles of India.This art form is native of Kerala,a state in the southern part of the country. The word 'Mohini' means a maiden who charms the onlooker and 'attam' means dance.Usually the legends in India links the name of Mohini to that of God Vishnu who had assumed the beautiful form of Mohini to entice Demon Bhamasura and finally destroyed him.

Another dance form from this part of India is Kuchipudi. Ancient temple sculptures of the state of Andhra Pradesh bear witness to dance, drama and music being a part of life in the state. The dance form derived its name from the village Kuchipudi in Krishna district of the state. The village was gifted to the Brahmin community who were practising this art as their family profession for generations. The dance draws from ancient literary works .An attractive ingredient of Kuchipudi dance dramas is the special dancing on a brass pitcher full of water balanced on the dancer's head without spilling a drop.

The Kathak dance form originated in the North and at first was very similar to the Bharatanatyam. Persian and Muslim influences later altered the dance from a temple ritual to a courtly entertainment. The influence of the Mughal tradition is evident in this dance form, and it has a distinct Hindu-Muslim texture. Kathak has an exciting and entertaining quality with intricate footwork and rapid pirouettes being the dominant and most endearing features of this style. The costumes and themes of these dances are often similar to those in Mughal miniature paintings. The Lucknow Gharana and Jaipur Gharana are the two main styles of Kathak dance.

Odissi, is the traditional dance form of Orissa and owes its origin to the temple dances of the 'devadasis' (temple dancers). Possibly, the oldest classical dance form in the country, Odissi has been mentioned in inscriptions, depicted on scupltures, in temples like the Sun Temple at Konark. It is a soft, lyrical classical dance which depicts the ambience of Orissa and the philosophy of its most popular deity, Lord Jagannath. Odissi is based on the popular devotion to Lord Krishna and the verses of the Sanskrit play Geet Govinda are used to depict the love and devotion to God.

Situated in the far north eastern corner of India is a secluded and picturesque valley enclosed by mountain ranges. In this almost complete isolation was born one of India's richest classical dance forms: Manipuri. Performed in temples and religious occasions, inextricably woven into the lives of the people of Manipur, this dance form is very much a living tradition. Dignified grace is to be found in every aspect and the range it offers in technique, rhythmics and tempo makes a Manipuri recital an absorbing and exhilarating experience.

Another famous classical dance form that owes its origin to the southern state of Kerala is 'Kathakali'. The dance form is known for its elaborate style, makeup, grand costumes and intricate hand and eye movements. The form is unique as it is the complete domain of men. Even the female parts in a recital are enacted by men dressed up as women.

Last but not the least this land of exotica has a array of folk dances as diverse as its topography and as rich as its culture. From 'Bhangra' and 'Giddha' originating in the state of Punjab to the desert state of Rajasthan which sees its snake dancers perform at the various dance festivals across the world. The east has Assam's 'Bihu', performed during the time of harvest. Not far behind are the 'Garba' from Gujarat which is performed during 'navratras' and 'Lavni' from Maharastra.

Note: The best time to see all these forms of Dances together in India, is during the Republic Day celebration in Delhi which starts from 20th & continues till 26th. You can choose a specialize Dance Festival.

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