Kalamandalam opens doors for boys to learn Mohiniyattam

• Mohiniyattam, a captivating classical dance from Kerala, boasts an ancient heritage.
• Rooted in the Sanskrit text "Natya Shastra," this dance form likely originated between the 9th and 12th centuries CE, traditionally performed by temple dancers known as Devadasis during the Chera dynasty.

Mohiniyattam

• It is a solo dance characterized by its graceful femininity.
• It belongs to the Lasya style, emphasizing gentle movements and expressions of love and devotion to gods, particularly Lord Vishnu or his incarnation, Krishna.
• The performance combines dance, song, and storytelling.
• Songs are usually sung in Manipravalam, a blend of Sanskrit and Malayalam, while the music follows the Carnatic style. The dancer or a vocalist may perform the recitation.

Features

• Unlike many dances, Mohiniyattam focuses on elegant body sways rather than intricate footwork.
• Instead, it prioritizes expressive hand gestures (derived from the text "Hastha Lakshana Deepika") and subtle facial expressions to convey emotions.
• The dancers adorn themselves in traditional white or ivory cream saris, often embroidered with gold.
• The rhythmic accompaniment comes from instruments like the mridangam, madhalam, flute, veena, and cymbals.

Prelims Takeaway

• Mohiniyattam
• Classical dance