BHARATA NATYAM

Without giving an introductiion to "Natyashastra" it may look very incomplete to move forward into the various aspects of this beautiful artform.Bharata Natyashastra is a detailed treatise and handbook on dramatic artform that deals with all aspects of classical sanskrit theatre or Bharatanatyam.It is believed to have been written by the mythic Brahamn sage and priest Bharata sometime between{1st century BCE-3rd century CE.Its many chapters contain detailed summary about all the diverse arts that encompass other Indian classical genres like drama,dance,music ,poetics and general aesthetics.The book exhorts that the indian classical drama is a vehicle for religious enlightenment.

KATHAKALI

Kathakali is performed to a live musical accompaniment.The accompanists stand on the stage a little away from the performing artists.The make is elaborate and much stylised along with colourful costumes that it is almost impossible to recognise the artist in normal clothes even if you have watched him perform one whole night.Kathakali's means of communication are very structured.So,one certainly needs to have a clear idea of the form to understand or follow a performance.

MOHINIYATTAM

As we look back to the origin of MOHINIYATTAM , it can also be adjudged as a temple dance performed by the devadasies.I t also has elements of Koothu and Kootiyattam in it.Mohiniyattam is a drama in dance and verse.It also has influence of Bharatanatyam and Kathakali in it.This artform was formulated in the court of Swathithirunal by Vadivelu ,one of the Tanjavur quartet.

KATHAK

Kathak is a dance of communication reflecting the total philosophy of life.It adheres to tradition yet,at the same time it develops in new directions.Kathak is a vehicle for all emotions.It is universal in concept,unlike other Indian classical dances,it absorbs other cultures.It was when the dance reached the Mughal courts after the 16th century that Kathak began to acquire its distinctive shape and features.