Question 1

Which classical dance form is known as the 'Dance of the Enchantress'?

Accepted Answer

Mohiniyattam. Mohiniyattam comes from the word 'Mohini', the mythical avatar of Lord Vishnu who enchanted the demons. It is a solo feminine dance from Kerala characterized by flowing, graceful movements. The dancers typically wear a white saree with a gold border.

Question 2

Which of the following colors in Kathakali makeup symbolizes evil or demonic characters?

Accepted Answer

Black. Kathakali uses a color-coded makeup system where 'Kari' (black) represents wicked and base characters. 'Pacha' (green) represents noble and virtuous heroes, while 'Chuvanna Thadi' (red beard) signifies powerful evil characters. This helps the audience immediately identify the character's nature.

Question 3

The 'Alarippu' is traditionally the first item in the performance sequence of which dance?

Accepted Answer

Bharatanatyam. Alarippu is a rhythmic invocatory piece that seeks blessings for the performance. It serves as a warm-up for the dancer to showcase basic body movements and postures. The full performance sequence of Bharatanatyam is called 'Margam'.

Question 4

Which classical dance form is uniquely associated with the Vaishnavite religion and the 'Ras Lila' theme?

Accepted Answer

Manipuri. Manipuri dance is deeply rooted in the worship of Radha and Krishna through the 'Ras Lila' tradition. It is famous for its slow, delicate movements and the stiff cylindrical skirt worn by female dancers. The dance form reflects the peaceful and devotional spirit of Manipur.

Question 5

The 'Sutradhara' or the narrator is a key figure in which classical dance tradition?

Accepted Answer

Sattriya. In Sattriya performances, the Sutradhara introduces the story and the characters to the audience. This role is crucial in the dance-dramas known as 'Ankiya Nats' created by Sankardev. It maintains the storytelling and educational purpose of the monastery tradition.

Question 6

Which classical dance form uses the 'Tabla' and 'Pakhawaj' as its primary rhythmic accompaniment?

Accepted Answer

Kathak. Kathak is the only classical dance from North India and follows the Hindustani music system. The 'Tatkar' (footwork) of the dancer is often performed in a rhythmic dialogue with the Tabla. The Pakhawaj is used for more vigorous temple-style pieces.

Question 7

The 'Gotipua' dancers were the precursors to which modern classical dance form?

Accepted Answer

Odissi. Gotipuas were young boys dressed as girls who performed Odissi in the streets and temple courtyards. This tradition helped preserve the dance during the decline of the Mahari (female) dancers. Modern Odissi has incorporated many of their athletic and acrobatic movements.

Question 8

Which dance form features 'Mudras' (hand gestures) based on the text 'Abhinaya Darpana'?

Accepted Answer

Bharatanatyam. The Abhinaya Darpana by Nandikeshvara is a fundamental text used to study the hand gestures in Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi. These mudras are a silent language used to communicate complex stories and emotions. There are separate gestures for one hand (Asamyuta) and both hands (Samyuta).

Question 9

The 'Gharana' system of lineage is a defining feature of which classical dance?

Accepted Answer

Kathak. Kathak is divided into major gharanas like Lucknow, Jaipur, and Benaras, each with its stylistic differences. The Lucknow Gharana is known for grace and expressions, while the Jaipur Gharana is famous for powerful footwork. This system ensures the oral transmission of the art from teacher to student.

Question 10

Which of the following classical dances is traditionally performed solo by women in Kerala?

Accepted Answer

Mohiniyattam. Mohiniyattam is a graceful solo dance form that emphasizes 'Lasya', the feminine aspect of dance. It is distinct from the theatrical and vigorous group performances of Kathakali. The music is based on the Sopanam style, native to Kerala's temples.

Classical Dances — Set 10