Classical Dance in Hinduism

Hindu Classical Dance has many forms all stemming from the Natyasastra. The Natyasastra was written around the 1st century BCE by Sage Bharata. It is considered one of the most highly regarded pieces of literature for dance, and is even considered the fifth Vedas. It’s detailed description of dance, what it means, what it should evoke, and how it should be used is what makes it stand out as one of the most informative pieces of Hindu literature.

The Devadasis were the original dancers of India. They served God through dance and were considered married to God. They held a very high social status, much to the same regard as priests. However, with the influence of outside forces, mainly British influence, the status of a Devadasi was lowered to that of a prostitute. It took many years before classical dance was revived.

With the aid of Rukmini Devi in the 1920s, a resurgence of classical dance was seen. It was transformed from the prostitute social status to that of a worship based artform. Though it never regained it’s status as a Devadasi, and equivalent to that of a priest, it still regained some of it’s footing.

The many forms of dance include: Bharatnatyam, Kuchipudi, Manipuri, Odissi, Mohinniattyam, Sattriya, Kathak, and Kathakali. These are only a few of the many in India. Though very different in structure and composition, all these dance forms have similar underlying principles. The elements of natya- dramatic element, nritta-rhythmic footwork, and nritya- the interpretation are what tie all these art forms together.

Finally, it is evident that classical dance has often been interpreted as Bollywood in media. So You Think You Can Dance is one such example. By taking classical dance elements, and fusing them with Bollywood beats and music has been seen more recently. Is this appropriate?

Yatho Hasta Thatho Drishti,

Yatho Drishti Thatho Manah

Yatho Manah Thatho Bhaava,

Yatho Bhaava Thatho Rasa

-Natyasastra

Do you think that the societal shift of dance from Devadasi to prostitution affected its religiosity spiritual value?

Is it important to know the meaning of the dance you are watching? Do you think this is necessary? Does this help us spiritually? Why or why not?

Traditional Indian Dance has found it’s way into Bollywood, Hollywood, and other media outlets. Is this a good or bad thing? Why or why not?