About Indian Dance

In dance, India has one of the largest repertoires in the world. There are eight main classical forms: Bharata Natyam (Tamilnadu), Kuchipudi (Andhra Pradesh), Odissi(Orissa), Kathak(Bihar), Manipuri(Assam and Manipur) Mohini attam, Kathakali (Kerala) and Yakshaganam (Karnataka).

There are four minor classical forms, Chakiarkoothu, Konishattam, Kudiyattam and Ottamthullal ,all originating in Kerala. Distinct styles of folk dances are provided by a staggering multiplicity of races, linguistic and ethnic groups and religious and social organizations. They have an unharnessed progressive growth because they are representative of the regional cultures. Folk art is identified with the common man's life, distinct from the classical form, which is clearly for the elite.

Indian folk dance is simple, yet it is not naïve. Rhythm and tune- simple and often repetitive, combined with minimum use of words, and with the least number of complex musical instruments are the underscore of the folk dances of India.

Indian dance scene can be categorised as:
Tribal dances
Religious dances
Classical dances