Part of: Uttar Pradesh Gk set 13

New dance style at the time of the Delhi sultanate:

Category: Uttar Pradesh Gk

Hint: Consider the historical context of the Delhi Sultanate and the evolution of dance forms in India.

Correct Answer: C) Kathak

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, State PSC

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

The question asks about a new dance style that emerged during the Delhi Sultanate period, which lasted from the early 13th century to the early 16th century. The Delhi Sultanate was a period of significant cultural and artistic development in northern India, and it was during this time that the classical dance form Kathak was established.

Kathak is one of the eight major forms of Indian classical dance. It originated in the northern part of India and is known for its intricate footwork, spins, and rhythmic patterns. The word "Kathak" is derived from the Sanskrit word "Katha," which means "story." Kathak evolved from the storytelling traditions of the Kathakars, who were the storytellers of ancient India. These storytellers would narrate stories from the epics and mythologies, often accompanied by music and dance.

During the Delhi Sultanate period, the Mughal court culture had a significant influence on the development of Kathak. The Mughal emperors were patrons of the arts, and they encouraged the growth of various forms of music and dance. Kathak was particularly favored in the Mughal courts, where it was performed by both men and women. The dance form was further refined and developed during this period, incorporating elements of Persian and Central Asian dance styles.

It is important to distinguish Kathak from other classical dance forms in India, such as Bharatnatyam, which originated in the southern state of Tamil Nadu. Bharatnatyam has a different historical context and is not associated with the Delhi Sultanate period. Similarly, Tango, which is a dance form that originated in Argentina, is not relevant to the historical context of the question.

Therefore, Kathak is the correct answer as it is a new dance style that emerged during the Delhi Sultanate period, reflecting the cultural and artistic developments of that time.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: Bharatnatyam is a classical dance form that originated in Tamil Nadu and is not associated with the Delhi Sultanate period. It is incorrect because it does not fit the historical context of the question.
  • Option B: Tango is a dance form that originated in Argentina and is not related to the Delhi Sultanate period. It is incorrect because it is not an Indian dance form and does not fit the historical context.
  • Option C: Kathak is the correct answer because it is a classical dance form that developed during the Delhi Sultanate period. It evolved from the storytelling traditions of the Kathakars and was influenced by the Mughal court culture.
  • Option D: This option is incorrect because Kathak is a new dance style that emerged during the Delhi Sultanate period, making it a valid answer to the question.

Mnemonic: Kathak: Keep Time, Art, and Tradition

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