Classical Dances — Set 5

Correct Answer: B. Bharatanatyam

• **Bharatanatyam** = The 'Abhinaya Darpana' by Nandikeshvara is a key text used for the technique of this dance, providing detailed instructions on gestures and movements. • **Nandikeshvara** — His 'Abhinaya Darpana' is considered a fundamental handbook for classical dancers in **South India**, with most Bharatanatyam schools strictly following its mudra system. • 💡 Wrong-option analysis: Kathak: relies on the 'Natya Shastra' and oral traditions, not specifically 'Abhinaya Darpana'; Odissi: primarily influenced by 'Natya Shastra' and local sculptural traditions; Manipuri: influenced by 'Natya Shastra' but has its own unique treatises and oral traditions.

Correct Answer: C. Kathakali

• **Kathakali** = This classical dance form features a 'Tala-maddalam' version, where performers sit and act through gestures and facial expressions without costumes or dance. • **'Tala-maddalam'** — This interior version of Kathakali focuses purely on the narrative and vocal music, serving as a highly specialized form of dramatic debate. • 💡 Wrong-option analysis: Manipuri: involves gentle movements and group formations, not a seated narrative form; Sattriya: performed in 'Sattras' (monasteries) with specific dramatic elements, but not 'Tala-maddalam'; Kuchipudi: known for its dramatic solo and group performances, including 'Vachika Abhinaya', but not a seated-only gestural performance called 'Tala-maddalam'.

Correct Answer: B. Sattriya

• **Sattriya** = This classical dance is associated with the 'Chali' and 'Jhumura' rhythmic patterns found in its music, which govern the tempo and gait of the monk-dancers. • **'Chali' and 'Jhumura'** — These are distinct rhythmic structures integral to Sattriya music, known as 'Borgeet', which has a specific classical structure. • 💡 Wrong-option analysis: Manipuri: uses 'Ukharm' and 'Nomtom' syllables; Odissi: features 'Pakhawaj' rhythms and specific 'taal' structures; Kathak: known for its complex 'taal' patterns and intricate footwork ('tatkar').

Correct Answer: D. Bharatanatyam

• **Bharatanatyam** = 'Bani' is a term used to describe different regional styles in this classical dance, similar to Kathak's Gharanas. • **Kalakshetra, Pandanallur, and Vazhuvoor** — These are examples of **Banis** in Bharatanatyam, each having unique ways of executing steps and presenting the repertoire. • 💡 Wrong-option analysis: Kathak: uses the term 'Gharana' (e.g., Lucknow, Jaipur) for its stylistic differences; Kuchipudi: has variations but doesn't typically use the 'Bani' terminology for regional styles; Odissi: has evolved with gurus from different regions but doesn't formally categorize styles as 'Bani'.

Correct Answer: D. Odissi

• **Odissi** = This classical dance form is the most sculpturesque, with a strong connection to temple architecture, imitating the poses of temple idols. • **'frozen music'** — This distinct visual quality is achieved as Odissi dancers often pause in positions that resemble **stone carvings**, reflecting its deep connection to temple idols. • 💡 Wrong-option analysis: Sattriya: focuses on theatrical storytelling and spiritual narratives; Mohiniyattam: known for its graceful, fluid, and circular movements; Manipuri: characterized by gentle, undulating movements and restrained expressions, not overtly sculpturesque poses.

Correct Answer: A. Jaipur Gharana

• **Jaipur Gharana** = This school of Kathak dance is famous for its emphasis on power, complex rhythms, and multiple lightning-fast spins. • **100** — Dancers often perform up to 100 spins in a single sequence, highlighting the Gharana's technical virtuosity. • 💡 Wrong-option analysis: [Lucknow Gharana]: Known for its emphasis on delicate emotions and expressive mime (Abhinaya), not rapid spins; [Raigarh Gharana]: A newer Gharana blending elements from Jaipur and Lucknow, but not the primary school for Chakkar; [Benaras Gharana]: Characterized by its unique floor work and rhythmic patterns, less known for the rapid spins.

Correct Answer: A. Mohiniyattam

• **Mohiniyattam** = This classical dance form frequently uses the 'Veena' as a melodic accompaniment, specifically the Saraswati Veena. • **Sopanam** — The music in Mohiniyattam follows the Sopanam style of Kerala, which complements the feminine 'Lasya' style of the dance. • 💡 Wrong-option analysis: [Odissi]: Primarily uses the Pakhawaj (percussion) and melodic instruments like the flute and violin; [Manipuri]: Uses the Pung (drum), cymbals (kartals), and harmonium as key accompaniments; [Sattriya]: Uses the Khol (drum) and cymbals (Manjira), with vocal music being central.

Correct Answer: D. Kathakali

• **Kathakali** = This dance form traditionally begins with a 'Purappadu', meaning the start of the performance. • **Night-long** — Purappadu involves basic dance steps accompanied by heavy drumming and sets the rhythmic tone for the entire night-long performance. • 💡 Wrong-option analysis: [Bharatanatyam]: Its opening is usually 'Alarippu'; [Manipuri]: Often begins with 'Tala Vadya' or 'Sankirtana'; [Kuchipudi]: Features an introductory sequence where the dancer establishes the character, but not specifically called 'Purappadu'.

Correct Answer: D. Kuchipudi

• **Kuchipudi** = The 'Bhaama Kalapam' is the most famous dance drama of this classical form. • **Siddhendra Yogi** — Bhaama Kalapam was composed by Siddhendra Yogi, who is considered the father of Kuchipudi. • 💡 Wrong-option analysis: [Bharatanatyam]: Has a vast repertoire including 'Varnam' and 'Padam', but Bhaama Kalapam is not central; [Odissi]: Known for 'Mangalacharan', 'Pallavi', and 'Moksha' sequences, often based on Jayadeva's Gita Govinda; [Sattriya]: Features 'Ankiya Nat', a form of drama, but Bhaama Kalapam is not part of its tradition.

Correct Answer: C. Manipuri

• **Manipuri** = This classical dance form utilizes 'Patra-rachana' or delicate decorative painting on the dancer's forehead and cheeks. • **Sandalwood paste** — Manipuri dancers often have delicate designs painted on their faces using sandalwood paste to enhance the ethereal and spiritual look required for Ras Lila. • 💡 Wrong-option analysis: [Kathak]: Dancers typically use minimal makeup, focusing on expressive eyes; [Mohiniyattam]: Uses simple, naturalistic makeup, emphasizing the eyes and lips; [Odissi]: Features specific traditional makeup like 'Alta' on hands and feet, but not 'Patra-rachana' on the face.