India, a land of plenty; rich in resources and vibrant in cultures. Through the ages, tribes and communities have thrived and added colour of their own to music and dance which have become an integral part of Indian culture. Variuos forms of classical and folk dance, originated fron different backgrounds and they have their own speciality and grace.

Some forms of the Indian Dance :

BHARATANATYAM: This is a highly traditional and stylized dance form, originating from the dances of devadasis in temples of South India. It has three major elements, Bharata(facial expression), Raga(melody) and Tala(rhythm). Bharatha Natyam is known for its rhythmic, vigorous footwork, crisp movements, sculpturesque poses. Rich and colourful, the traditional costume is gold bordered and pleated front unfold into a fan of rich colour lending beauty and grace to every step of the dance.

KUCHIPUDI: The indigenous dance style of Andhrs Pradesh. Associated with religion, Kuchipudi was originally performed only at temples by men of Brahmin origin. This dance-drama form of Nitta(jatis), Nritya(sabdams) and Natya(mudras). This dance form is marked by the Bead and Gold jewellery and red and gold costumes contrasted against snow white flowers adorning the dancers.

ODISSI: This dance form is soft and lyrical. It depicts the ambience of Orissa and the philosophy of its most popular deity, Lord Jagannath. The head and the body move in soft flowing movements expressing specific moods and emotions. The Odissi jewellery is uniquely in Silver. The dancers have elaborate hair-do in a knot with the "Tahiya" which represents the temple tower.

MOHINIATTAM: This is a feminine dance of Kerala,performed in temples. This form is gentle and enchanting. It is delicate and lyrical in quality. Wide swinging steps and the swinging movement of the torso from side to side are traits of Mohiniattam.

KATHAKALI: This is a spectacular dance drama form of Kerala. Through graceful mimetic emotions and expressions and highly stylized colourful make-up that resembles masks. The dance relates to stories of Heroes, Villans, Gods and Demons. The use of colour is very vivd and characteristic - the good have green faces with ridges of white and the bad have beards and white mustaches silver fingernails and red eyes are common with all dances.

MANIPURI: This dance style from the North-Eastern part of India is delicate and graceful. The dancer creates rich and exotic patterns. This dance form is intricate and complex calling for high levels of discipline and patience. It is highly decorative in its steps marked by gliding movements.

The rich cultural diversity of India is personified by the various forms of dance that flourish here adding colour to life.