General Knowledge
MediumQ. No. which-is-not-a-classical-dance-of-india
Which is NOT a classical dance of India?
Last Updated:
ABhangda
BManipuri
CBharatanatyam
DKathak
Correct Answer: BhangdaYour Answer: A
Bhangda is a folk dance of Punjab, not a classical dance. The 8 classical dances of India (as per Sangeet Natak Akademi) are: Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Mohiniyattam, Kathakali, Odissi, Manipuri, Kathak, Sattriya.
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.
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