75th R-Day: From Kathakali to Manipuri Raas Leela India witnesses 30 folk dance forms at Kartavya Path

India is known for its diversity, cultural and traditional beauty. The 75th Republic Day has witnessed the achievements marked in the year 2023 in the form of tableaus and 30 folk and traditional dance forms from Punjab, Rajasthan, Kashmir and various other states performed by more than 200 women performers.

We also witnessed Kathakali from Kerala, Manipuri Raas Leela, Bharatnatyam, Kathak and other traditional Indian dance forms creating a vibrant and colourful performance at the Kartavya path in the pressence of President of France, Emmanuel Macron, Prime Minister Narendra Modi and President Draupadi Murmu.

Classical dance forms we witnessed at the 75th Republic Day parade

Kathakali from Kerala: Kathakali is a traditional dance-drama form from Kerala, India, characterized by elaborate makeup, colorful costumes, and dramatic storytelling through intricate facial expressions and gestures. It combines elements of dance, music, and acting to convey stories from Hindu mythology and epics.

Odissi from Odisha: Odissi is a classical dance form originating from the Indian state of Odisha. It is known for its graceful movements, intricate footwork, and expressive storytelling through hand gestures, facial expressions, and body postures. Odissi often depicts mythological themes and celebrates the rich cultural heritage of Odisha.

Manipuri Raas Leela: Manipuri Raas Leela is a classical dance that celebrates the divine love story of Lord Krishna and the Gopis (milkmaids) of Vrindavan. Manipuri Raas Leela is characterized by its gentle, fluid movements, colorful costumes, and use of symbolic props like the Radha-Krishna idol and cymbals. The dance portrays the deep devotion, love, and playful interactions between Lord Krishna and the Gopis, making it an integral part of Manipuri culture and a significant art form in India.

Bharatnatyam from Tamil Nadu: Bharatanatyam is known for its rhythmic footwork, intricate hand gestures, facial expressions, and storytelling through dance and music. Bharatanatyam typically involves both nritta (pure dance) and abhinaya (expressive dance) elements, making it a complete and dynamic art form.

Kathak from Uttar Pradesh: Kathak is a classical dance form that originated in the northern Indian state of Uttar Pradesh, particularly in the region of Lucknow and Varanasi. Kathak is known for its expressive storytelling through intricate footwork, fast spins, rhythmic movements, and graceful hand gestures. It also places significant emphasis on facial expressions to convey various emotions and narratives.

Mohiniyattam from Kerala: Mohiniyattam is a classical dance form from the southern Indian state of Kerala. The name "Mohiniyattam" translates to "Dance of the Enchantress," and it is known for its graceful and fluid movements, as well as its emphasis on feminine grace and beauty.

The other folk dances that the country witnessed are Rajasthani, Gujarati, Jharkhand folk dance, The Dumhal dance from Kashmir, among few others.

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