General Studies (Paper - 1) : Model Question & Answers

Question: Discuss the important dance forms of south India and specify the different characteristics of Bharatanatyam  and Kathakali dances.

Answer: Indian dances evolved primarily as a part of religious rituals at the temples and involved story telling mainly about gods and goddess, drawn on epics and purana. Expression is the key note of every dance form.

Candidate is expected write about 30-35 words on each of the important dance forms of south India, viz. Bharatanatyam , Kathakali, Mohiniattam, Kuchipudi and Yaksagana (last one is not included in list of 8 classical dances of India, but is an important dance. Difference between Kathakali and Bharatanatyam  In Bharatanatyam , a solo female dancer presents a number of items based on Bhakti Sringar (Divine love) in particular pattern from Alarippu (invocation) to thillana (fast dance).

Kathakali on the other hand, is a dance-cum-drama, having predominantly a male dancer. Costumes of two dance forms also differ. Bharatanatyam  dancer’s costume is both grand and elegant will radiant jewellery. Heavy hair make up gives special appearance to the dancer. Whereas the Kathakali dancer’s dress is noted for towering head gear and wide skirt. Finally, while Bharatanatyam  is characterised more by hip movements and bent knee postures along with different mudras/gestures, Kathakali is marked by brisk and swift movements.