Mohiniyattam is a dance form said to have originated in Kerala. It is closely related to Bharathanatyam of Tamil Nadu, which was originally called 'Dasiyattam'. Originated as the temple dance performed by Devadasis, it portrays feminine love in its myriad forms - carnal, devotional and maternal- with accent more on Lasya and Bhava. In the main items Cholkettu, Padavarnam and Padam, Mudras and facial expressions are more important than the rhythmic steps. Costumes and ornaments of ... Mohiniyattam is the classical dance form of Kerala and has rich bonds with Indian folklore. Mohiniyattam performers follow the lasya style of dance. This points to a more feminine and gentler set of movements. Mohiniyattam is one of the most popular Indian classical dance forms. Mohiniyattam dance evolved in the state of Kerala, India. Read in detail. Mohiniyattam is one of the two classical dance forms that originated in Kerala, the other one being Kathakali. Mohiniyattam gets its name from the word ‘Mohini’, the feminine form of Lord Vishnu; the word means ‘dance of Mohini’. In the art and culture section of the UPSC syllabus, various dance forms including the classical forms are important. Questions can be asked in the IAS prelims on the Indian dance forms, their histories, and other particulars. In this article, you can read ...
