KATHAKALI

Kathakali is a theatre form of Kerala involving many artistes playing different roles.It is not a solo art form.In the yesterdays only men performed this form donning both male and female roles.Presently there are female performers too,thought not in large numbers.Kathakali is very elaborate , specific and well defined in its make-up technique and costume designing.

MOHINIYATTAM

The term literally means the " The dance of the enchantress". Mohini is the enchantress.There are two stories in our mythology which throw some light to the naming of this artform.In both Lord Vishnu is disguised as Mohini.In one Lord appears as Mohini to lure the asuras{Demons}away from the amrita{nectar of immortality} obtained during the churning of palazhi{Ocean of milk}.

MANIPURI

A classical dance form from the north eastern Indian state of Manipur.Even this belongs to the temple dance forms as the themes are devotional.It is often referred to as "Sankirtan"..meaning praising the lord.The term Manipuri actually covers a number of dance formsfrom the region.The most important being the "Ras Lila" and the "Pung Cholom".It originated in the 2nd century AD.

KATHAK

This is the most widely performed dance in North India.The name stems from the word Katha "the art of story telling".Modern day Kathak is a theater art which has the vigour of dynamic footwork and pinpoint spins, the subtle movement of the face and hands, telling stories of all kinds.This is the only classical dance form that has elements from both Muslim and Hindu culture.

ODISSI

Odissi is possibly the oldest classical dance form of India ,dating back to 2nd century BC.It is also a temple dance deeply rooted in Hindu devotion.This dance form is the offspring of Orissa ,in eastern India.This was also performed by the Devadasies in the temples.Dances were dedicated to Lord Krishna {known as Lord Jagannath in Orissa}.The crown or the coronet worn by the dancer is a unique feature of this dance form.The coronet is supposed to symbolise the gopuram of the Puri Jagannath temple.

KUCHIPUDI

A dance form belonging to the South again.The name depicts the village in Andhra Pradesh from where it originated-Kuchelapuram.This dance form grew largely as a product of bhakti movement beginning in the 7th century AD.It is characterised by fast rhythms and fluid movements ,creating a unique blend of control and abandon,strength and delicacy.