Class 3 Art & Culture of India

Indian Classical Dance Overview

• Indian classical dance forms are deeply rooted in tradition, representing cultural stories and spiritual themes.
• Popularization of Indian classical dance internationally was significantly influenced by Uday Shankar.

Bharatnatyam

• Bharatnatyam is one of the oldest classical dance forms from South India.
• Key figures associated with Bharatnatyam include Rukmini Devi, Kanak Rele, and Sonal Mansingh.
• Padma Subramaniam and Yamini Krishnamurthy are notable recipients of all four Padma awards related to this dance.
• The dance form was revived in modern times and is characterized by intricate footwork and expressive gestures.

Distinguished Personalities

• Rukmini Devi is often referred to as the “Queen of Bharatnatyam”.
• "A Passion for Dance" is the autobiography of renowned dancer Sonal Mansingh.

Musical Accompaniment

• Instruments used in Bharatnatyam include Mridangam, Veena, and Manjira; Dhola is not part of this ensemble.

General Characteristics

• Bharatnatyam is described as “Poetry in Motion”, showcasing grace and rhythm.

Revitalization of Dance Forms

• The decline of the Devadasi system saw E. Krishna Iyer reviving Bharatnatyam.

Kathakali

• Originating from Kerala, Kathakali symbolizes the sky/ether and combines dance, music, and drama.
• It evolved from ancient theatrical forms influenced by Chakiarkoothu and Koodiyattam.
• Characters in Kathakali are categorized as hero (Pacha) and villain (Kathi); colors denote virtues or vices (Green for virtue, Red for sin).
• V.N. Menon played a crucial role in its revival during the 1930s under Mukunda Raja’s support.
• Manipravalam (a blend of Malayalam and Sanskrit) is the primary language used in Kathakali songs.

Prominent Figures in Kathakali

• Notable practitioners include Kalamandalam Raman Kutty Nair and Rita Ganguly.
• Milena Salvini and Louise Lightfoot are recognized as ambassadors promoting Kathakali globally.

Mohiniyattam

• Mohiniyattam represents a feminine dance style ("Lasya") and symbolizes air.
• The dance narrates the story of Vishnu and the enchantress Mohini, believed to have developed as a result.
• Maharaja Kartika Thirunal was instrumental in structuring Mohiniyattam into its classical form.
• The dance emphasizes graceful and natural expressions, with gentle footwork and a soft rhythm.

Instruments in Mohiniyattam

• Key instruments include Manjira, Veena, and Flute; Dhola is not used in this dance form.

Contributions and Recognition

• V.N. Menon and Kalyani Amma were significant in reviving Mohiniyattam, highlighting its cultural importance.

Quiz Preparation

• Key questions regarding characters and instruments in dance forms can aid in study. For example:
  • Kathakali is dubbed the "Ballad of the East".
  • Green face paint in Kathakali symbolizes virtue, while red reflects sin.
• Recognition of the contributions of key figures in each dance form is essential for comprehensive understanding.

Test your knowledge of Indian Classical Dance with this quiz tailored for Class 3 students preparing for WBPSC, SSC, and Railway exams. Explore the contributions of renowned dancers and their influence in promoting Indian dance forms globally.