Classical Dances — Set 3
Arts & Culture · शास्त्रीय नृत्य · Questions 21–30 of 100
The 'Tillana' of Bharatanatyam is equivalent to the 'Moksha' item in which other dance form?
Correct Answer: D. Odissi
Moksha is the final item in an Odissi recital, signifying spiritual liberation through art. It involves fast-paced movements that culminate in a state of bliss. Both items represent the technical peak of their respective traditions.
Which classical dance uses the 'Kalaripayattu' martial art techniques in its training and choreography?
Correct Answer: B. Kathakali
Kathakali dancers undergo rigorous physical training to handle the weight of their costumes. Elements of Kerala's martial art are used to improve flexibility and leg strength. This contributes to the dynamic and powerful nature of the dance.
The 'Gungun' or small bells are a vital part of the costume in which North Indian dance?
Correct Answer: A. Kathak
In Kathak, the sound of bells is integrated into the music to create rhythmic echoes. Dancers can control the sound of individual bells to show their mastery. This dance form evolved in the courts of the Mughal emperors.
Which classical dance form is historically associated with the 'Vilasini Natyam' tradition?
Correct Answer: C. Kuchipudi
Kuchipudi shares its roots with Vilasini Natyam, which was performed by female temple dancers. It evolved into a distinct style with a greater emphasis on dramatic storytelling. Modern Kuchipudi allows both men and women to perform the art.
Which classical dance form is strictly characterized by its 'Vibhava', 'Anubhava', and 'Vyabhichari' bhava as per Natya Shastra?
Correct Answer: A. All classical dances
All eight recognized Indian classical dances are based on the theory of 'Rasa' and 'Bhava'. These terms describe the causes, physical indicators, and transitory states of emotions. This shared theoretical foundation unites the diverse regional styles.
The 'Sattra' system, where Sattriya dance was preserved, was established during which century?
Correct Answer: C. 15th Century
Srimanta Sankardev founded these religious centers in the 15th-16th century in Assam. They served as hubs for literature, music, and the arts during the medieval period. The dance remained confined to these monasteries for centuries.
Which classical dance uses the 'Mridangam' as the primary percussion instrument?
Correct Answer: D. Bharatanatyam
The Mridangam is a double-sided drum central to Carnatic music and Bharatanatyam. It provides the complex rhythmic cycles or 'Talas' for the dancer. Kathak, by contrast, primarily uses the Tabla or Pakhawaj.
The 'Kari' makeup in Kathakali, consisting of an all-black face, represents which type of characters?
Correct Answer: C. Evil forest dwellers
The correct answer is 'Evil forest dwellers'. Kari characters represent base and primitive instincts in the mythological stories. They are often hunters or demonesses like Surpanakha. Kathakali makeup is a highly specialized craft that takes hours to apply.
Which classical dance form has its music based on the 'Odissi music' system, distinct from Hindustani and Carnatic?
Correct Answer: D. Odissi
Odissi music is an independent system of Indian classical music with its own ragas and lakshanas. It shares some traits with both major systems but retains a unique regional identity. The primary percussion instrument used is the 'Mardala'.
The 'Gharana' system of teaching and lineage is most prominently associated with which dance?
Correct Answer: D. Kathak
Kathak has several prominent gharanas like Lucknow, Jaipur, and Benaras. Each gharana has its own stylistic nuances, such as speed or emphasis on storytelling. This system preserved the art form through generations of hereditary dancers.