Mohiniattam is a classical dance form of :a)Andhra Pradeshb)Tamil Nadu...
Mohiniattam is a classical dance form that originated in the state of Kerala, India. It is primarily associated with the Malayalam speaking region and is performed predominantly by women. The correct answer to the question is option 'D' because Mohiniattam does not belong to Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, or Karnataka.
Origin and History:
Mohiniattam is believed to have originated in the 16th century in the temples of Kerala. It was developed as a solo dance form performed by Devadasis, the temple dancers. The word "Mohini" refers to the enchantress or the beautiful woman, and "attam" means dance. Hence, Mohiniattam translates to the dance of the enchantress.
Distinctive Features:
- Costume: Mohiniattam dancers wear off-white or cream-colored sarees with gold borders known as "Kasavu" sarees. The attire is adorned with traditional jewelry, including necklaces, earrings, and waistbands.
- Movements: Mohiniattam is characterized by graceful and fluid movements. The dance form incorporates subtle swaying of the body, intricate footwork, and expressive hand gestures known as "Mudras."
- Music: Mohiniattam is accompanied by Carnatic music, which sets the rhythm and mood for the performance. The music is usually sung in the ragas of Kerala's classical music tradition.
Themes and Performances:
Mohiniattam typically portrays themes from Hindu mythology, particularly the stories of Lord Krishna and the devotional love of Radha. The dancers use their expressions, gestures, and movements to convey the emotions and narrative of the chosen story. The performances are known for their lyrical beauty and elegance.
Revival and Recognition:
Like many other classical dance forms, Mohiniattam faced a decline during the colonial era. However, it was revived and popularized by prominent dancers and scholars in the 20th century. Today, Mohiniattam is recognized as one of the eight classical dance forms of India by the Sangeet Natak Akademi, the national academy for music, dance, and drama in India.
In conclusion, Mohiniattam is a classical dance form that originated in Kerala, India. It is known for its graceful movements, expressive gestures, and portrayal of mythological themes. It is important to note that Mohiniattam does not belong to Andhra Pradesh, Tamil Nadu, or Karnataka, making option 'D' the correct answer.