- Bharatanatyam: It is a classical dance form originating from Tamil Nadu. It involves intricate footwork, expressive hand gestures, and rhythmic movements.
- Kathak: This dance form evolved in northern India and is characterized by fast footwork, spins, and storytelling through dance.
- Odissi: Originating from the state of Odisha, Odissi is a classical dance form known for its fluid movements, graceful poses, and expressive facial expressions.
- Mohiniyattam: Hailing from Kerala, Mohiniyattam is a graceful dance form performed by women. It combines subtle movements, facial expressions, and hand gestures to depict various emotions and stories.
- Kathakali: This dance-drama form from Kerala is known for its elaborate makeup, colorful costumes, and exaggerated expressions. It incorporates elements of dance, acting, and music.


- Hindustani Classical Music: It is the classical music tradition of North India, characterized by raga (melody) and tala (rhythm). It includes genres like dhrupad, khayal, and thumri.
- Carnatic Music: This classical music tradition of South India focuses on intricate melodies, rhythmic patterns, and improvisation. It includes compositions in various languages like Tamil, Telugu, and Sanskrit.


- Ramayana: An ancient Hindu epic written by Valmiki, it narrates the story of Lord Rama and his adventures. It is considered a significant cultural and religious text in India.
- Mahabharata: Another ancient Hindu epic, written by Vyasa, it depicts the Kurukshetra war and the moral dilemmas faced by the characters. It contains the Bhagavad Gita, a philosophical discourse.
- Bhagavad Gita: A part of the Mahabharata, it is a sacred text of Hinduism. It presents a conversation between Prince Arjuna and Lord Krishna, discussing various aspects of life and spirituality.
- Rabindranath Tagore's Works: Tagore, a Nobel laureate, is known for his poems, songs, and plays in Bengali literature. His notable works include "Gitanjali" and "Kabuliwala."

These dance forms, music traditions, and literary works hold immense cultural and historical significance in India. Familiarity with them will provide a deeper understanding of the country's rich heritage, artistic expressions, and philosophical concepts. They may also be referenced in questions related to Indian art and culture in the UPSC Prelims.