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Mohiniattam Dance

If you have ever been associated to India or the Indian culture then you would be a great fan and lover of the classical dances of India. Mohiniattam is the dance form a South Western state of Kerala. It is quite evident from its name that is a Feminine based dance form, that is the reason why it is considered to be a most sensual and exquisite dance form in the classical category.

Mohiniattam can be defined as “Dance of Enchantress”. If you have ever happened to come across this form of dance, you will certainly agree to the fact that it can enchant you in a big way. The enchanting sense of the dance has been derived from a whole legend story behind it as how an Apsara assisted the Gods to save the Amrit from the Demons by distracting them using her charm.

The costumes are the basic thing as they help to strengthen the mesmerizing feel that is the main objective of this form of dance. The costumes may be White or close to white, i.e. off-white, along with the gold coloring that create that typical south feel. Hairstyles are also something which is done with great care; all in all, it is basically the appearance that helps dancers to grip the imagination of the audience.

Talking specifically about the dance steps and movements, you will find them dancing in a swaying or kind of oscillating movement. Tanpura, Vina, Venu, Manjira, Mirdangam are some of the instruments which are the integral part of the dance.

Mohiniattam has gathered a lot of applause and the appreciation, recently and now claiming to be one of the most popular dance forms of India. That is the reason why you can easily experience this dance form in other parts of India, as well. However, the scholars and legend of this form of dance are reluctant to call it a classical dancer and persisting to rate it more of a traditional dance form.