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Why A — Bharatanatyam and Odissi is the correct answer Bharatanatyam and Odissi precisely matches the cultural association asked in the question. Why A (Bharatanatyam and Odissi) is Correct: Sonal Mansingh is a legendary classical dancer known for her mastery in both Bharatanatyam and Odissi dance forms. She received Padma Bhushan in 1992 and Padma Vibhushan in 2003. The decisive clue is the exact pairing between the prompt and Bharatanatyam and Odissi, not merely a broad connection with Indian dance. Manipuri and Kuchipudi: This is incorrect here because it does not match the specific association in the question. It belongs to a different dance tradition, performer, place, year, or cultural context and therefore acts as a distractor. Kuchipudi and Sattriya: This is incorrect here because it does not match the specific association in the question. Manipuri and Kathak: This is incorrect here because it does not match the specific association in the question. The verified match is Bharatanatyam and Odissi. This works well in SSC CGL, SSC CHSL, banking, railway, defence, and state examinations. Final answer: A — Bharatanatyam and Odissi.
FAQ
Common questions and clear answers for this topic.
India has 8 classical dance forms: Bharatanatyam (Tamil Nadu), Kathak (Uttar Pradesh), Kuchipudi (Andhra Pradesh), Odissi (Odisha), Kathakali (Kerala), Manipuri (Manipur), Mohiniyattam (Kerala), and Sattriya (Assam). These are based on Natya Shastra by Bharata Muni and are asked in UPSC and SSC exams.
Bharatanatyam originates from Tamil Nadu and is one of India's oldest classical dance forms. It was traditionally performed in Hindu temples by devadasis and later popularized by Rukmini Devi Arundale. It expresses devotion through nritta (pure dance), nritya (expressive dance), and natya (dramatic elements).
Kathak is a classical dance form of North India characterized by fast footwork, spins (chakkar), and expressive storytelling. The word Kathak comes from Katha meaning story. It has three main gharanas: Lucknow Gharana (grace), Jaipur Gharana (vigorous footwork), and Banaras Gharana. Famous dancer: Birju Maharaj.
Important folk dances: Bhangra and Giddha (Punjab), Garba and Dandiya (Gujarat), Lavani (Maharashtra), Bihu (Assam), Chhau (Jharkhand/Odisha/West Bengal), Kalbelia and Ghoomar (Rajasthan), Yakshagana (Karnataka), Cheraw Bamboo Dance (Mizoram), Mohiniyattam (Kerala).
Kathakali is a classical dance-drama from Kerala known for its elaborate makeup, colorful costumes, and headdresses. It depicts stories from Ramayana and Mahabharata. The elaborate facial makeup uses natural colors: green for noble heroes, red and white for evil characters. The training starts in childhood and takes many years to master.
