Mohiniyattam — Which State's Classical Dance?

India has 8 officially recognised classical dance forms. Mohiniyattam is the graceful, lyrical classical dance from the southwestern state of Kerala.

Question (Click to Flip)

What are India's 8 classical dances?

Answer

Bharatanatyam (TN), Kathak (UP), Mohiniyattam (Kerala), Kuchipudi (AP), Odissi (Odisha), Manipuri (Manipur), Kathakali (Kerala), Sattriya (Assam).

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Key Facts

Mohiniyattam was revived in the 20th century by the poet Vallathol Narayana Menon, who founded the Kerala Kalamandalam institute dedicated to classical arts.

Which State?

Mohiniyattam is the classical dance of Kerala.

Meaning of the Name

Mohini = The enchantress (a female avatar of Lord Vishnu)
Attam = Dance

Mohiniyattam means 'Dance of the Enchantress' — it embodies the grace, beauty, and gentle swaying movements of Mohini.

Key Features

Performed exclusively by women.
Costume: White and golden (off-white Kasavu saree with golden border).
Movements are very gentle, swaying, and lyrical — resembling the movement of palm trees in a breeze (Lasya style).
Music: Kerala's Sopana Sangeetam style.
Language of lyrics: Manipravalam (a mix of Sanskrit and Malayalam).

Questions and Answers

What are India's 8 classical dances?+

Bharatanatyam (TN), Kathak (UP), Mohiniyattam (Kerala), Kuchipudi (AP), Odissi (Odisha), Manipuri (Manipur), Kathakali (Kerala), Sattriya (Assam).

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