Indian Classical Dance

Culture, Tradition, and Dance

Indian culture is enriched with numerous forms of dance. They make an inseparable part of our festivals.
The most important 8 classical dances are introduced below.

Bharatanatyam (Tamil Nadu)

One of the oldest and most prominent classical dance forms from the land of Tamil Nadu. The form is ornate with Mudras (hand gestures), Padanyas (footwork), and Abhinaya (facial expressions). Through this, the Bharatanatyam dance paints wonderful mythological stories from our ancient culture.

Kathak (North India)

Evolves from templates, where Kathakars (storytellers) perform this most beautiful dance form – in which stories from Ramayana and Mahabharat are depicted. Expressive footwork and Chakkars (spins) are the main features of Kathak. The dance form has influences from Hindus and Mughals.

Kathakali (Kerala)

Known for its elaborate costumes, vibrant, colorful make-up, and communication through eyes. This decorative form is also used to narrate our mythological tales.

Kuchipudi (Andhra Pradesh)

Kuchipudi is an interesting blend of dance-drama from Andhra Pradesh. Traditionally, it was performed by male dancers, but today it is predominantly performed by females as well.

Manipuri (Manipur)

Having evolved from the little northeastern state of India, Manipuri dance is very graceful, with articulate expressions. Mostly performed as a solo dance, Manipuri has a different suave, delicate charm. You will witness stories of Radha-Krishna’s love in this form.

Mohiniyattam (Kerala)

Mohiniyattam, a unique kind from Kerala, is known as a dance of enchantress. Demonstrating divine love, the dance emphasizes beauty, sensuality, and devotion. The form has slow, graceful movements and soft footwork.

Odissi (Odisha)

Odissi is one of the oldest dance forms of India, which is seen to be performed in temples. It’s a representation of our mythology and devotion. Tribhangi (three bends of the body) is a unique highlight of this dance. The dance is decorated with intricate, fluid movements.

Sattriya (Assam)

A classical dance from the state of Assam, usually performed in Vaishnav Monastries (Sattras). It has a theme of religious and devotional emotions. Tales like Bhagvat Purana and other texts are found in this performance.

Hasta Mudra

Hastabhinay: All classical dance styles have their language. Hasta Mudra is an important element of these languages. They convey meaning and emotions. There are 3 main types of Hasta Mudras:

Asamyukta Hasta Mudra

Only one-hand Mudra is used in this form of Mudras, which expresses the beautiful gesture of a dance. This one-hand Mudra communicates the complete meaning as a part of a story or convey subtle feelings.

Samyukta Hasta Mudra

As name denotes, this Mudra uses both the hands together to complete the form. Using different formations with both the hands, wonderful stories are unfolded, as well as meaningful messages are expressed.


Nritta Mudra

Nritta means pure dance. While first 2 Mudras are used to convey meaningful messages, Nritta Murda, performed in pure dance, are used to draw beautiful designs. These are accompanied by rhythmic Padanyas.