Tag: Indian classical music

VARIOUS DANCE FORMS OF INDIA

Dances reflect the mood and feelings of human beings through expression and body movements. India is known for many dance forms each of which is originated from its state. However, only six classical dance forms such as Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, Kathak, Kathakali, Odissi, and Manipuri are nationally recognized. Apart from this, many dance forms have their origin from India. Indian dance arts are not only about body movements and gestures. It is one of the ancient ways of showing devotion to God. It shows the inseparable connectivity with the Indian culture. Here, in this article, some of the famous dance forms of India would be discussed briefly.

BHARATANATYAM

Being one of the most famous classical dances of the world, Bharatanatyam owns its origin from Tamil Nādu, one of the southern states of India. Bharatanatyam was performed for the divine Carnatic music by women in temples in the ancient period. The movements and gestures of this dance form are called mudras and the dancer uses mudras and facial expressions to show the Navarasa (9 emotions). It is one of the most honourable art and is still learned by many women in the south.

KATHAK

Kathak is an Indian dance form that has its origin from the northern state, Uttar Pradesh. The word Kathak is derived from the term ‘Katha’ which means story. This dance is performed in a way to narrate a story with the dance movements. Both male and female dancers perform together. The ankle movement is the most important one which is done by wearing the Ghungroos (Ankle bells). 

KATHAKALI

Kathakali is another traditional dance form that is related to storytelling. It is originated from The Land of Spices of India, Kerala. The tales performed are Ramayana and Shiva stories. It includes heavy makeup, costumes, and face masks that are bright and colourful. The dance depicts both evil and good through facial expressions and gestures.

KUCHIPUDI

Kuchipudi, belonging to the southern state Andhra Pradesh is said to be the toughest dance form. It includes singing along with dancing. Hence it requires more skill and dedication compared to other forms. It was performed by male dancers, especially the brahmins in temples in ancient times. However, as time flew it became common and is performed even by women nowadays.

ODISSI

Odissi is the oldest dance form from the eastern state of India, Odisha. It narrates the stories of the Gods Shiva and Surya which are given in the form of poems. These poems are played as songs and the dancers express them through more than 50 intriguing mudras. These mudras are sculpted in the Hindu temples of India. It is preserved by practicing and making its survivance till today.

MANIPURI

Manipuri stands as a symbol to represent the rich traditions of the north-eastern state, Manipur. It narrates the romantic relationship between Lord Krishna and Radha, which is called Raas Leela. It is performed to the music of classical instruments by wearing the traditional Manipuri costumes and makeup to showcase the tale of the two gods. 

Bhangra, Garba, Bihu, Mohiniyattam, Ghoomar, Lavani, Rouf, Karagattam, etc. are the other well-known dance forms of India. 

Indian classical music

Today I want to discuss a very interesting topic ,it is about ‘Indian classical Music’, which is India’s heritage and pride. Indian classical music is the classical music of Indian subcontinent. it is basically divided into 2 parts ,in north India it is called as Hindustani music while in south India , it is called Carnatic music.

Indian classical music has 2 components Raga and Tala. raga is based on ‘Swara‘ while the tala is based on time cycles. Indian classical music has been adopted historically with many regional styles and places. Indian classical music is considered to be 6000 years ago where people developed a combination of musical notes with rhythm. Indian classical music is very closely connected to nature, beauty and surroundings. There are different – different ragas for different moods and seasons.for example , there is a raga called ‘Malhar’,which is said to be sung during rainy season.

Hindustani music

it is believed that Indian subcontinent music was integrated until political turmoil of Delhi sultanates era came, than it was divided into 2 parts 1. Hindustani music 2. Carnatic music.

it is believed that Hindustani music was started in 14th century. it was at its peak during Akbar period, during that time Tansen studied Hindustani music and made many innovations in it. he is also considered as founder of Hindustani music. Hindustani music is mainly found in North India, Pakistan and Afghanistan . It has different forms like khyal, tarana thumri etc. There is a huge list of Ragas in Hindustani music.

Carnatic music

Puranadara Dasa is considered as grandfather of Carnatic music. He was a devotee of lord Krishna. Due to his efforts, Carnatic music was introduced.it is said that Carnatic music is more rhythmically intensive and structured than Hindustani music. Carnatic music are little bit fast and shorter than Hindustani music.

What makes Indian classical music different from other music

in this we will discuss that how classical music is different from other forms of music like Bollywood Music.It is all about history ,its context and purpose. classical music is studied and developed in a very disciplined way .and it is more professional and difficult to learn.it is also considered as a type of meditation.

nowadays very less people know about classical music, about its history ,origin and other things. We all are attracted by western Music because it has that an entertainment flavour in it. But classical music is not for entertainment or any other thing, it gives mental peace to the listener who understands its beauty. In fact in Bollywood music , classical music plays a huge role many songs that we like are sung with the help of ragas especially sad or romantic songs.

instruments used in classical music

There are many instruments that are used in classical music, some of them are:-

1.Sitar:-it is a very important instrument in Hindustani music. it is a plucked stringed instrument that was originated in 16th or 17th century in Indian subcontinent.

2.Tabla:-it is a pair of drums used in indian classical music. it is used in Indian subcontinent .

3.Mridangam:- this instrument is used in Carnatic music. it is called Pakhawaj in Dhrupad.

4. Flute:-it is a Woodwind instrument which produces a very pleasing sound ,from a flow of air across an opening.it is very important instrument in classical music.