About the Dance
Indian dance can be divided on to the following categories:
Classical Dance
Folk Dance
Tribal Dance
Film Dance
All forms of dance are based on detailed and systemised sequences of movements. Bollywood dance is a mixture of classical and folk dance which has evolved into semi classical form. It is danced for pleasure and is a vital element in most Hindi films.
KATHAK:
Kathak is the most prominent style of North India classical dance. The dancer represents all the characters of the story with help of a repertoire of gestures, facial, expression and graceful movements. It is characterized by vigorous and strong footwork of dancers wearing ghoongroos with fast spins, turns and sudden poses, representation of themes from Persian and Urdu poetry alongside those of Hindu Mythology.
Kathak arouse from the fusion of Hindu and Muslim cultures which took place during the Mughal period (1526-1761). The influence of kathak is also visible in the Spanish flamenco tradition
BHARATNATYAM:
Bharatnatyam originated in southern India in the state of Tamilnadu. It started as a temple dance 2000 years ago and is most advanced and evolved dance form of all the classical Indian dance forms.
The name Bharatnatyam comes from Sanskrit. Bha from Bhava meaning emotion, Ra from Raaga meaning music or melody, Ta from Taala meaning rhythm and exceptional dance and Natyam meaning dance. This dance style is characterized by a liner form of the body without any pronounced movement of the upper body and liner spatial patterns, which make the dance form extremely dynamic and powerful.
BHANGRA:
Bhangra is a folk dance originating from Punjab. Though Bhangra has changed over time, it has always kept it’s roots intact to the traditional forms of the dance.
With it’s energetic movements, lively dance style and pounding rhythmic beats, Bhangra has quickly became a popular music phenomenon. Bhangra’s influence can be found in new hip hop, R&B artist (i.e. Jay Z feat. Punjabi MC). Bhangra is a great way to get a great workout and have fun!
TRIBAL/FOLK :
Tribal and Folk dance has a great variety of forms which are the collective traditions of each of the sub-continent. They are dance for recreation and enjoyment as well as celebration of seasonal and social festival.
FUSION:
Fusion is a combination of Semi Classical/Traditional, Tribal and Folk dance.
Dancers “fuse” together dance to make one stronger element.
WEDDING/MEHNDI:
This dance is traditionally performed at Weddings, Mehndi functions and Engagement.
Wedding dance incorporated fusion of Bollywood, folk Bhangra and Classical/Traditional dance forms.
Wedding dance is performed by groups, individuals or duet.