Classical Dances of India 2025, State-Wise List, Dance Forms

Classical Dances of India: India has many beautiful classical dances, each representing our rich cultural heritage. Bharatanatyam from Tamil Nadu is known for its intricate footwork, while Kathak from North India tells stories through rhythmic movements. Odissi from Odisha celebrates devotion, and Kuchipudi from Andhra Pradesh combines dance, drama, and music seamlessly. Kerala's Kathakali is a mesmerizing dance drama, and Mohiniyattam showcases grace in Kerala. Manipuri from Manipur and Assam's Sattriya reflect unique regional traditions, together representing India's diverse classical dance heritage.

Classical Dances of India 2025

Classical Dance of India List

Classical Dance in India State-Wise

9 Classical Dances in India

India is home to a rich heritage of classical dance forms, each representing the culture, traditions, and spiritual expressions of different regions. Recognized by the Sangeet Natak Akademi, these nine classical dances reflect centuries of evolution, discipline, and storytelling through rhythm, gesture, and music.

1. Bharatanatyam (Tamil Nadu)

• Originated as Sadir or Dasi Attam in temples.
• First traditional dance to become a theatre art.
• Follows principles from Bharata's Natyashastra.
• Rich repertoire in Telugu, Tamil, and Sanskrit.

2. Manipuri Dance (Manipur)

• Rooted in Vaishnava faith.
• Circular and continuous movements.
• Subdued facial expressions and gestures.
• Divided into Jagoi and Cholom styles.

3. Kathak (Northern India)

• Connected with Kathakaras or storytellers.
• Flourished under Mughal rule.
• Known for footwork and pirouettes.
• Features Thumri music genre.

4. Odissi Dance (Odisha)

• Originated as a temple dance by female servants.
• Revived as a theatre art in the 20th century.
• Vaishnava faith is intrinsic to its themes.
• Soft and graceful movements.

5. Kathakali (Kerala)

• "Story play" originates from Kerala.
• Based on Ramayana and Mahabharata.
• Characters portrayed with symbolic makeup.
• Facial expressions and hand gestures tell the story.

6. Mohiniattam (Kerala)

• Named after enchantress Mohini.
• Feminine and graceful dance.
• No heavy steps, gentle footwork.
• Rhythms from Kerala's music tradition.

7. Kuchipudi (Andhra Pradesh)

• Originated from Kuchelapuram village.
• Combines speech, mime, and dance.
• Features storytelling through mime changes.
• Often performed as a dance drama.

8. Sattriya Dance (Assam)

• Developed in Vaishnava monasteries.
• Evolved language of hand gestures and movement.
• Adapted as a modern theatre art.
• Themes centered around devotion to Krishna.

9. Chhau (Eastern India)

• Blend of martial traditions, temple rituals, and folk performance.
• Features episodes from epics, folklore, and abstract themes.
• Intimately connected with festivals and rituals.
• Music ensemble includes indigenous drums and reed pipes.

Other Dance Forms of India