Indian Classical Dance Forms

Choose the Correct Answer

Correct Answer : Option d

Explanation
Option (d) is correct: Yakshagana is a theatre form developed in Kannada districts of Karnataka. A sage named Narahari Thirtha started Dashavatara performance in Udupi which we now know as Yakshagana of today. Yakshagana means the songs of the Demi-Gods (yaksh 'meaning Demi-God, and 'gana' meaning song). Its stories are influenced by Vaishnava Bhakti movement. The performers wear interesting and colourful costumes, elaborate headgears and look like unique artists. It is a kind of poetic drama or play.

Other incorrect options:

Option (a): The name Kathak is derived from the Sanskrit word - Katha (Story). Kathak is a storytelling dance. The story is narrated through expressions and body movements. It is also a sufi form of dance. This dance belongs to specific schools called Gharanas. Lucknow Gharana, Banaras Gharana and Jaipur Gharana are popular and have their unique style, composition and instruments. Its beauty lies in the foot work wearing ghungroos and chakkar (swirling rounds by the body).

Option (b): Mohiniyattam dance is another attractive (mantramugdh) dance performed by women of kerala. It is also done in carnatic music. It is another dance which is considered relative to Bharatnatyam. Mohiniyattam demonstrates the actions or leela of Vishnu in his Mohini (enchantress) avatar. It is a very charming classical dance form. Rhythmic dance steps called advat in Mohiniyattam.

Option (c): Odissi is also known as Orissi. It was an old dance form that originated from Hindu temples of eastern coastal states of India such as Odisha. It expresses the devotion to Lord Vishnu as jagannath, Shiva, Surya and Shakti. It is usually done by female dancers solo or in groups. Today young girls also participate in stage performances of Odissi dance.