Know About the Classical Dance Forms of South India

Not only the pristine backwaters, stunning temples, fascinating beaches, rejuvenating ayurvedic spa, and natural ambiance makes South India a major tourist delight but the different dance forms are completely demonstrations of inner devotion as well that attracts the attention of tourists during South India Tour. Various dances honor the centuries-old-traditions of places where religious doctrines are a way of life. Below are enlisted South India dance forms that you will experience while on a trip to this culturally enriched southernmost region of India. So, let’s take a look -

Bharatanatyam -

It is the synonymous dance form with South India arts and culture. This dance is practiced and performed religiously with utmost devotion and diligence. Being regarded as one of the oldest dance forms in the world, Bharatnatyam is a combination of decorative hand gestures, meticulous facial expressions, and complex footwork. It adheres to a compendium called Natya Shastra that put forth by its most celebrated patron, Bharata Muni.

Kathakali –

Kathakali is an operatic style of dance hailing from the Malayalam-speaking locations of the south-west part of India, chiefly the state of Kerala. It is mainly exemplified by idiosyncratic paraphernalia and accessories, a Kathakali dance shows stories from Indian mythology or folklore. Vigorous art moves and eerie eye movements give Kathakali dance a distinctive flavor that you might have never seen before. Being the complex dance form it takes years for becoming a master in Kathakali.

Kuchipudi –

From the dance forms that have a definitive origin, Kuchipudi is the prime one. This dance form can be traced back to its namesake village in Krishna district of Andhra Pradesh. However, Kuchipudi shares some common elements with Bharatanatyam, the interpretation and accompaniment is truly different. Kuchipudi needs complex facial expressions and agility and also incorporates some props like clay pots and brass plates. It commands devotion and respect with different themes of spiritual advancement.

Yakshagana –

Yaksha literally means a demigod or a guardian spirit while Gana means a song. Yakshagana is peculiar and features ornate costumes, powerful narration, periodic percussion and serious method of acting. It’s not unusual to come across all-night Yakshagana performances in the coastal districts of Karnataka.

Mohiniattam –

The graceful Mohiniattam dance form South India gets its name from an Indian mythical character call Mohini – who is an enchantress with divine status. Mohiniattam is widely performed by women dancers. Being the most sensual dance, it is usually accompanied by mellifluous music that is feminine and subtle. This dance finds a niche in the temples of Kerala during the late middle-ages, albeit with some stigma but is now gaining popularity all over the world.

Bhuta Kola / Theyyam –

Bhuta Kola or Theyyam are native ritualistic dance forms found in the Tullu region of Karnataka and the Kolathunadu region of Kerala. They both are similar in respect of style and delivery and both symbolize the idea of divine advancement. Bhuta Kola is a gesture to the Bhutas (spirits) which enjoy a cult status like demigods. Bhutas are mostly the guardians of natural elements of the world and the interpreters of these exist in limited areas between forests and villages.  Theyyam, on the other hand, is similar in performance but differs in the number of deities portrayed and the disposition of these deities.

These are the most popular dance forms of South India which you will experience during your South India Holidays. Witnessing these dances will let you experience the cultural richness of this region. It is one of those things which you can’t miss when on a trip to South India. So, while enjoying your vacations in South India include an experience to witness these famous dance forms of South India to get mesmerized.