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Indian classical dance is performed in different styles. Its theory can be traced back to the Natya Shastra of Bharata Muni (400 BC). Its various currents forms are: Note that Manipuri is clearly distinct from the above. Some also include the classical dances of Assam:
Indian dance, at its best, has the most powerful means to lead its worshippers – the artist – to the Divine. It is a sincere depiction of the Divine. It is a sincere depiction of the realities in life, an embodiment of the imagination and gracefulness, the very soul which thereby creates as it were the “Idol of the Beautiful”. Indian dance has four main styles namely - : Bharata Natyum, Kathak, Kathakali and Manipuri. The Kathak dance derives its name from the community of Kathaks, who are custodians of the art. It is from this house (ghar) or family that this form has taken its origin. The words Kathak and Kathakali are derived from katha meaning storytelling and kali meaning play. Kathak – storytelling and Kathakali – story play. The Kathak dance style was founded by the master Maharaj Binda Din. Kathak dancing performed by a dancer who stands and moves about and lasya (the aspect) in which the dancer kneels or remains immobile the whole time except for the (gat) a descriptive passage, performed in a gentle rhythm and tells stories with his expressive powers only, with his face and hands. It is astonishing what enchantment such a dancer can weave. Then we get the tremendous melodrama Kathakali. On the physical side the dancer must have perfect control of his body and limbs, which is achieved at least 12 years of study. Special massage is given to the feet. The Kathakali technique of using the face expression is a pure marvel of accomplishment. Some ancient masters of this dance have such control of their facial muscles that they can laugh with one side and cry with the other. Every Kathakali must be master of both tandava (vigorous masculine style at changing from one style to another). Lasya is divided into two categories; one suitable for men (for presenting love scenes, displays of sympathy and sentimed and so on) and the other for women who take female roles. Therefore women may study Kathakali but not take part in the pure dance drama which is too vigorous and difficult for them. It is therefore understood that Indian dancing is not just physical movements of hands and legs. It is a form of physical art with body and mind for both men and women alike as well as a form of worship to the Almighty Divine Gods. EXTERNAL LINKS
Indian classical dance – Kathak and Kathakali References: Auntrose, K., Classical Dances and costumes of India Banerji, P., Kathak Dance through the ages |