Chhau Dance

<p style="color:#dbdbdb ;padding:20px; border-left:5px solid #f2fffa;">Most of the dances in India are based on mythological stories, traditions and beliefs. According to the Hindu mythology, Lord Brahma, in order to save humanity, created the fifth scripture in addition to the four vedas, which is the Natya Veda. This was created by taking certain elements from the other four Vedas such as speech from Rig Veda, Abhinaya (speech, body, dress and facial expressions) from Yajur Veda, music from Sama Veda and aesthetic experiences from the Atharva Veda. Very few Indian folk dances reflect these. One such dance is the Chhau Dance. The Chhau Dance is a dance prevalent in Eastern India. A tribal martial dance of the Indian states of Odisha, Jharkhand and West Bengal, Chhau is known for its vigour and vitality. Although there is not much difference between these dance forms at different geographic locations, some of the Chhau dances use stylized masks. The distinctive features of Chhau include the depiction of birds and animals, heroic dances with the sword, bow, or shield which demonstrates the dancer’s dexterity.</p>
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Bihu Dance

<p style="color:#dbdbdb ;padding:20px; border-left:5px solid #fff7a3;">Most of the dances in India are a reflection of the celebrations of their cultural traditions and livelihood. One such dance flourished in the land of the mighty Brahmaputra around lush green tea plantations and an extravagance of flora and fauna, in Assam. Indeed, the Bihu dance stands at the pinnacle among the repertoire of festivals celebrated in Assam. As the name suggests, the dance is related to the festival of Bihu. A joyous dance performed by men and women, the Bihu dance is well known for its brisk dance steps and rapid movements. The most awaited festival of the Assamese is Bihu. During a year, there are three Bihus namely Rongali Bihu, Bhogali Bihu and Kongali Bihu. The dance is a part of the Rongali Bihu as it depicts the season of merriment. Let us discuss the detailed aspects of the Bihu dance.</p>
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Bharatnatyam

<p style="color:#dbdbdb ;padding:20px; border-left:5px solid #969696;">With all its rich elements including ‘Namaste’ (hello) as well as ‘Atithi Devo Bhava’ (Be one for whom the guest is God), various classical dances have also contributed in enhancing the Indian culture across the globe. These classical dances seem to be a synthesis of philosophy, sculpture, music and literature. One of these dances is so old that it has become a distinct representation of Indian art and culture. Indeed, we are referring to Bharatnatyam. Over 2000 years old, Bharatnatyam is considered to be the oldest dance forms of India. Flourished in the Hindu temples of South India, the dance is a highly specialised science with a traditional background and rigid codes and conventions. The dance is very technical in nature and hence, the dancer transcends the technique entering into the spirit of the dance and then expresses it. Originated in Tamil Nadu, Bharatnatyam is also referred to as an artistic yoga and Natya yoga. Reflecting its real styles of Bhava, Raga, Tala and Natya, the dance has a mesmerizing effect as it uplifts the dancer and the beholder to a higher level of spiritual consciousness.</p>
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