Heritage - Dance Forms of India

Indian classical dance is characterized by its age-old tradition, framework and rules for its technique and more significantly the language of gestures. The Sahitya or words of the song used in dance is only an aid, the main vehicle of communication used by the dancer being hand gestures and facial expressions. The various Indian classical dances - Kathak, Bharata Natyam, Mohiniattam, Kuchipudi, etc., - all use gestures to suggest emotions and ideas. The variations exist because of the differences in the technique of each dance style. But every classical dancer is fully aware of the rich potential that these gestures have in them and uses them to the best of her talent and ability. These suggestive gestures constantly remind the dancer and the audience that these art forms transcend the physical level to reach the sublime and spiritual level.

Some of the popular dance forms of India are as follows : 
(click below for details with pictures)