STYLES OF DANCE REPRESENTED AT OUR FESTIVAL
BHARATANATYAM
Bharatanatyam is a classical Indian dance form that has its roots in ancient temple dancing of southern India. It is one of the oldest art forms n the world, having an unbroken tradition that goes back 2000 years. It traces its origins back to the Natyashastra, an ancient treatise on theater written by the mythic priest Bharata. The dance movements are characterized by bent legs, while feet keep rhythm. Hands may be used in a series of mudras, or symbolic hand gestures, to tell a story.
KATHAK
A dance of northern India, Kathak is often characterized as thedance of love. It is performed by both men and women. Kathak focuses more on footwork as compared to the hasta mudras or hand movements in Bharatanatyam. The dances are performed straight-legged and the ankle bells (ghungaroos) worn by the dancers are adeptly controlled. It was originated by Kathakas, professional storytellers who used a mixture of dance, song, and drama. Like other Indian dances it began as a temple dance, but soon moved into the courts of ruling houses.
MOHINIATTAM
Mohiniattam is a distinctive classical dance form of Kerala. Wide swinging steps and movement of the torso from side to side are characteristics of Mohiniattam. Rhythmic variations based on patterns of beats are an integral part of the vocal accompaniment and this is gracefully rendered by the dancer with beautiful gestures and footwork Mohiniattam is a dance of sheer enchantment, its purpose being overtly sensual. This classical style was born out of a clever fusion of the highly stylized,male dominant Kathakali with the rigid Bharatanatyam. Though it shows deep affinities with both these styles, it has developed as a distinct danceform with its own personality. Mohiniattam is primarily intended as a solo dance to be performed by women.
KUCHIPUDI
Kuchipudi is an Indian classical dance that has its roots in the humble village of Kuchipudi, situated in the Krishna District of Andhra Pradesh, India. Kuchipudi is unique among the Indian classical dance styles. It uses fast rhythmic footwork and sculpturesque body movements. Stylized mime, hand gestures and subtle facial expressionis combined with more realistic acting, occasionally including dialogues spoken by the dancers. Kuchipudi was originally for male dancers.Traditionally the dance was performed by men, even the female roles, although now it is predominantly performed by women.
ODISSI
Odissi originated from Orissa, India. It is predominantly a dance for women, with meditative and worship postures that replicate those found in temple sculptures at Brahmeswara and Sun Temple at Konark. Based on archaeological findings, Odissi is believed to be the oldest of the surviving Indian classical dance forms. Highly stylized in nature, it utilizes powerful, energetic footwork, juxtaposed with sinuous, graceful feminine postures and movements. Handed down from teacher to disciple for thousands of years, Odissi emphasizes spirituality and devotion.
GARBA
Garba is a form of dance which originates from the state of Gujarat,India. The name is derived from the Sanskrit term Garbha "womb" and Deep "a small earthenware lamp". Many traditional garbas are performed around a lit lamp or statue of the Goddess Shakti It is a joyful style of dance, based on a circular pattern and characterized by a sweeping action from side to side. Garba performances often include singing and a musical accompaniment traditionally provided by dhol (double-headed drum) and the similar, smaller dholak; hand clapping; and assorted metallic idiophones, such as cymbals. Garba dancing also takes place during the nine-day Navratri festival, held annually during the Hindu month of Ashvina.
KAVADI
Kavadi is one of the offerings to Lord Muruga by his pious devotees. Kavadi in Tamil means “carrying weight on the shoulders.” This offering needs lots of will power and devotion. Not all can take a Kavadi to a Lord Muruga Temple. More than any other offering, Kavadi is considered to be the most auspicious and painstaking. There are many types of Kavadis- Pookavadi, Vel Kavadi, Parava Kavadi, and more. Kavadi is a bow-like structure adorned with peacock feathers, glass works, and many more ornamental things. Some Kavadis can weigh up to 35 kgs.
KUTHU
Kuthu is a form of Indian folk dance born in Tamil Nadu, India. This is common man’s, freestyle way of dancing. There are no exact rules of how to perform this piece of art. t is considered important to dance the way one feels during the performance, i.e.to improvise. Kuthu fosters creativity in its purest form. It is a dance that is used to express joy, relief, and boost self-esteem.
A few lines of Kuthu lyrics include the following:
Dance and Music are the best ways to not think of sadness for life! Dance is magic of soul. We make your dream of performing on the world stage come true! Yes, dreams work as we take action. The excitement of dreams coming true is beyond words.
