How many Classical dance forms are there in India?

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Hint: Consider the recognized classical dance forms by the Sangeet Natak Akademi.

Correct Answer: C) 8

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, Banking, Railway

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

Bharatanatyam: Originating from Tamil Nadu, Bharatanatyam is one of the oldest and most popular classical dance forms in India. It is known for its intricate footwork, expressive hand gestures, and facial expressions.

Kathak: Kathak is a classical dance form that originated in North India. It is characterized by its fast footwork, spins, and storytelling through dance.

Kathakali: Kathakali is a classical dance-drama form from Kerala. It is known for its elaborate costumes, makeup, and dramatic storytelling.

Kuchipudi: Kuchipudi is a classical dance form from Andhra Pradesh. It is known for its dynamic footwork, expressive gestures, and storytelling through dance.

Manipuri: Manipuri is a classical dance form from Manipur. It is known for its graceful movements, intricate footwork, and storytelling through dance.

Mohiniyattam: Mohiniyattam is a classical dance form from Kerala. It is known for its graceful movements, expressive gestures, and storytelling through dance.

Odissi: Odissi is a classical dance form from Odisha. It is known for its fluid movements, intricate footwork, and storytelling through dance.

Sattriya: Sattriya is a classical dance form from Assam. It is known for its spiritual and devotional themes, intricate footwork, and storytelling through dance.

Option Analysis:

Option A: This option is incorrect. There are more than five recognized classical dance forms in India. The Sangeet Natak Akademi officially recognizes eight classical dance forms.
Option B: This option is incorrect. While six is closer to the correct number, it still does not account for all the recognized classical dance forms in India. The Sangeet Natak Akademi officially recognizes eight classical dance forms.
Option C: This option is correct. The Sangeet Natak Akademi officially recognizes eight classical dance forms in India: Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kathakali, Kuchipudi, Manipuri, Mohiniyattam, Odissi, and Sattriya.
Option D: This option is incorrect. There are more than seven recognized classical dance forms in India. The Sangeet Natak Akademi officially recognizes eight classical dance forms.

Mnemonic: Remember the number 8 by associating it with the octopus, which has eight arms.

Back to Miscellaneous Indian Gk set 199 – Practice all questions