Question 1

The 'Angaharas' and 'Karanas' are the building blocks of dance as described in which ancient book?

Accepted Answer

Natya Shastra. Bharata Muni's Natya Shastra is the encyclopedic treatise on Indian performing arts. It describes 108 Karanas which are the fundamental units of movement. All recognized classical dances trace their theoretical origins to this text.

Question 2

Which classical dance form is uniquely characterized by its 'Gati' or gaits imitating animals like the swan or elephant?

Accepted Answer

Kuchipudi. Kuchipudi incorporates many folk elements including rhythmic gaits that depict different animals. This adds a playful and narrative layer to the classical technique. It is often performed to the accompaniment of Carnatic music.

Question 3

The 'Mridangam' and 'Ghatam' are part of the ensemble for which dance form?

Accepted Answer

Bharatanatyam. These percussion instruments are staple components of the South Indian or Carnatic music ensemble. They provide the complex rhythmic structure for the footwork of the dancer. The coordination between the drummer and dancer is a highlight of the performance.

Question 4

In Kathakali, the 'Minukku' makeup is used for which type of characters?

Accepted Answer

Women and Sages. Minukku is a simple, radiant makeup using yellow or orange tones. It represents poise, gentle nature, and spiritual wisdom. Unlike the heavy masks of heroes or demons, it highlights the natural facial features.

Question 5

Which classical dance form utilizes 'Chhau' elements in its contemporary versions?

Accepted Answer

Odissi. Both Odissi and Chhau originate from the Odisha-Bengal region and share historical aesthetic roots. Modern choreographers often blend the two to create more dynamic stage movements. Chhau itself is recognized as a semi-classical or tribal dance by Sangeet Natak Akademi.

Question 6

Which dance form is performed exclusively by women and is known for its 'Lasyam' (gentle) style?

Accepted Answer

Mohiniyattam. Mohiniyattam is the female counterpart to the male-dominated Kathakali. It focuses on beauty, grace, and subtle eroticism ('Shringara rasa'). The dance is a perfect example of the Lasya style mentioned in ancient texts.

Question 7

The 'Sankirtana' tradition, which is a UNESCO Intangible Heritage, is the musical base for which dance?

Accepted Answer

Manipuri. Sankirtana involves ritual singing, drumming, and dancing to celebrate the life of Krishna. It is practiced by the Meitei community in Manipur and is the soul of their classical dance. This recognition by UNESCO highlights its global cultural significance.

Question 8

Which classical dance form uses the 'Tabla' as its primary percussion instrument in North India?

Accepted Answer

Kathak. Kathak is deeply integrated with Hindustani classical music, where the Tabla provides the rhythmic cycle. The dancer and the tabla player often engage in a competitive dialogue called 'Jugalbandi'. This interaction is a unique feature of the North Indian tradition.

Question 9

The 'Devadasi' system was historically the custodian of which classical dance form in Odisha?

Accepted Answer

Odissi. In Odisha, the temple dancers were known as 'Maharis' who performed exclusively for Lord Jagannath. Their traditions were later codified into the modern Odissi classical form. This lineage provides the dance its deeply spiritual and ritualistic roots.

Question 10

The 'Tandava' and 'Lasya' are the two fundamental aspects of dance representing which deities?

Accepted Answer

Shiva and Parvati. Tandava is the vigorous and masculine dance of Shiva representing cosmic destruction and creation. Lasya is the graceful and feminine dance of Parvati representing love and beauty. All Indian classical dances contain elements of both these styles.

Classical Dances — Set 8