Mohiniattam
Mohiniyattam is a dance form native to Kerala. This classical solo dance form combines the graceful elegance of Bharatanatyam with the vigour and dynamism of Kathakali, to create a mood that is predominantly Sringara (erotic). The dance is usually performed on specially put up stages in connection with temple festivals. The hair is gathered and put up at the side of the head and adorned with jasmine, in the traditional style.
Mohiniattam is derived from the words "Mohini" (meaning beautiful women) and "attam"(meaning dance). Thus, Mohiniattam dance form is a beautiful feminine style with surging flow of body movements. Mohiniattam dance in Kerala developed in the tradition of Devadasi system, which later grew and developed a classical status. Swathithirunal, the king of erstwhile Travancore helped a lot to encourage and standardise this art form. It was Vallathol, who revived it and gave it a status in modern times, through Kerala Kalamandalam. Kalamandalam Kalyaniyamma was instrumental in resuscitating this ancient art form, which is trying to acquire an identity and classical status of its own.
The performers of Mohiniattam dance usually wear an off-white colored sari with gold brocade borders. Hairs of the dancer are gathered in a bun and decorated with jasmine flowers. The Mohiniattam dancer is adorned with Gold Jewellery including necklaces, bangles, waistbands and anklets. The tinkling of the Jewellery produces music as the dancer performs the dance. Mohiniattam dance is accompanied by musical instruments like violin, Veena and Mridangam and the dancer narrates episodes from the epics and legends through elegant steps, rhythmic movements of her arms and amazing facial expressions. The Hastha Lakshandeepika is a classical text and forms the basis of hands and arms movement in Mohiniattam.
Other dance forms: