The 8 Shades of Indian Dance- From Traditional to Trendy

Dance styles in India are like colourful threads weaving stories of culture and tradition through every graceful movement.

Dance is a means to express your emotions through movement and music. Since the beginning of human history, it has undergone several changes. People often see dancing as a celebration and an expression of joy. Some people do it as a form of art, some because they enjoy it, and others simply for fun. Indian dance has many various genres, reflecting India’s unique culture. So, book your cheap flight tickets from USA to India because every Indian region has its dances that are a reflection of its culture, history, and beliefs. Despite their antiquity, these dances are still popular around the globe. Choose Tripbeam to book your affordable flight tickets.

In this section, we will provide you with a brief list of dance titles that describe the various forms of Indian dances, ranging from Bollywood-style dances to classical dances.

8 Popular Indian Dance Styles

The Indian dance forms generally fall into two categories: Classical dance and Folk dance. Here are some of the various styles of dances in India:

1. Bharatanatyam

Bharatanatyam, one of the oldest classical dance styles, is famous in Tamil Nadu and has grown from a dance form into a theatre art. The dance primarily portrays love and devotion. The 19th-century “Tanjore Quartet” is associated with inspiring modern Bharatanatyam performances. Additionally, you can book direct flights to Chennai from USA with us for affordable deals.

2. Kathak

Kathak is a classical dance form that originated in northern India, primarily performed in Uttar Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, Rajasthan, etc.

The performance draws heavy influence from episodes found in epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata. The exquisite and rhythmic footwork and beautiful pirouettes are what give this dance form its unique appeal.

3. Odissi

The ‘Maharis’ began performing Odissi dance in Odisha temples. The divine love story of Radha and Krishna and motifs from Vaishnava traditions enhanced the theatrical performance. The hand and foot gestures are gentle and beautiful, capturing the sculptural magnificence of Odisha via dance.

4. Manipuri

Manipuri, a traditional dance recognized for its beautiful movements and expressions, originated in the gorgeous valleys of Manipur. Dancers avoid making direct eye contact with the audience. Two styles divide the dance: Jagoi, characterized by delicate movements, and Cholom, incorporating livelier steps. It includes local customs and frequently has legends about the god Krishna. Women exhibit beautiful arm and hand movements, whilst men demonstrate powerful ones. Singing or chanting may be used to recount stories throughout the performance.

5. Kuchipudi

The Bhakti Movement in the 7th century AD in modern-day Andhra Pradesh gave rise to this dancing style. It combines all three categories described in the Natyashastras: Nritta, Nritya, and Natya. The dance form is a highly expressive type of theatre in which the artist portrays several personas on stage. Meanwhile, if you are searching for cheap tickets to Canada from India head to Tripbeam.ca for a heavy discount on flight booking.

6. Chhau

Chhau dance, primarily performed in eastern India, synthesizes many art forms such as martial arts, temple traditions, and folk and vernacular performance arts. This dance form draws inspiration from incidents in the epics Ramayana and Mahabharata and from local and folk customs in the region. Traditional drums and folk music provide the rhythm for the artists’ performances.

7. Mohiniattam

The Keralan dance form derives its name from the goddess Mohini. Mohiniattam has a feminine aesthetic and delicate movement. During her performance, the artist appears to glide across the stage with subtle foot movements. The dance form is associated with the temples of Kerala.

8. Indian Bollywood Dance Style

Over 500 years have passed since the beginning of Indian dance. In its original form, the Bollywood dance style combines several diverse dances. It is vibrant and colourful. Two popular varieties are Bhangra and Garba, both from Gujarat, India. They combined other dances from various areas to create the Bollywood style. Bollywood dance combines many different genres, including Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Bhangra, Jazz, Hip-hop, Arabic, and Western dance. It incorporates both dance moves and expressions.

Bollywood dance incorporates elements of Indian classical dance and other dance styles. Bollywood dance Style currently outperforms all other dance genres in the world.

Conclusion:

So, what are you guys waiting for? Book your last minute flights to India from USA through Tripbeam for additional discounts. Wear your dancing shoes and dance your heart out! Make the most of your Indian tourism experience by exploring India’s traditional dances.

Also Read: From Folk to Fine: Exploring India’s Rich Traditional Art Forms