New Delhi — By induspride on April 28, 2010 at 12:06 am
Filed under: Events, Performing Arts - Theater & Dance

New Delhi Celebrates World Dance Day with Indian Classical Dance

World Dance Day is on April 29^th. There have been a gala of performances all over New Delhi and suburban towns this month. The performances have been organized by SPICMACAY ( Society For Promotion Of Indian Classical Music & Culture Amongst Youth ).

Indian Classical Dance in New Delhi

Before you rush to see the Indian classical dance form, here’s a bit about them to help you identify from which part of India they are from and what to expect.

The following list will give you a brief idea about some of the Indian Classical dance forms:

BHARATA NATYAM: One of the most popular forms of Indian Classical dance originating from South India. You can even to a post graduate degree in this dance form.
KUCHIPUDI: Originated from present day Andhra Pradesh. This dance form uses fast rhythmic footwork and sculpture-like body movements.
CHHAU: Originated from Eastern India. This Indian classical dance form has evolved from martial arts and typically uses swords, bow, and shields.
KATHAK: Originated from a nomadic tribe in Northern India. This Indian classical dance has very fast footwork and sutle facial expressions. The dances usually move the beat of the Tabla.
KATHAKALI: Originated from the southern state of Kerala. It’s more a play than dance. The dancers wear heavy attires and masks. The make-up is wonderfully colourful.
KOODIYATTAM: Another dance form originating from Kerala. This dance form is over 2000 years old and similar to Kathakali, it has a theatre feel. The make-up and heavy attire can also be expected in this dance form.
MANIPURI: Originated from the North Eartern State of Manipur. One of the Indian classical dances in this form is called the Pung Cholam, also known as Drum Dance. It is very energetic with dancers leaping to great heights.
MOHINIATTAM: Another Indian classical dance from from Kerala. Mohiniattam literally means “Dance of the Temptress”.
ODISSI: A dance form from the eastern state of Orissa. The dancers do a lot of posing in this dance form.
SATTRIYA: A dance from the North Eastern state of Assam. This dance form originated from monasteries. Hence, initially only men performed. However, nowadays women also participate.

Now that you have a basic understanding of Indian Classical Dance shows, mentioned below are a few that you can catch over the next two days.

28^th April

Smt.Sonal Mansingh (Odissi) at National Law University, Sector 14, Dwarka, 6 p.m.
Smt. Sunayana Hazarilal (Kathak) at Mother Teresa Public School, C Block, Preet Vihar, 10 a.m.
Su.Mahua Shankar (Kathak) at Bal Bharati Public School, Sector – 14, Rohini, 10 a.m.

29^th April