Indian Folk dances State-wise 2024

Dance is a unique art form that varies from person to person. It goes beyond mere movements; it is a medium to convey feelings and emotions. In a culturally diverse country like India, the number of languages exceeds that of states. When it comes to dance forms in India, there are over 100 distinctive styles. Each state and region boasts its own distinct dance form and accompanying music.

Indian Folk dances State-wise 2024

There are 9 major dance forms of India which accepted by the Indian ministry of culture and according to the Sangeet Natak Academy, there are 8 dance forms in India. Other than these several other dance forms are not known at the national level. Here in the article, we will discuss several dance forms of each state in India.

List of Dance forms in India

Major Dance Forms in India

1. Bharatnatyam- Originated from Tamil Nadu. It was originally performed in the temples. Bharatnatyam is 2000 years old dance form and it can also be found in the Bharata Muni’s Natya Shastra.
2. Kathak- The origin of Kathak is Uttar Pradesh. The and the word Kathak is derived from the word Katha which means story. It is considered a musical dance story because throughout the whole performance the artists narrate stories.
3. Kathakali- Kathakali originated from Kerala. Includes storytelling with the help of dance.
4. Kuchipudi- Originated from Andhra Pradesh. Kuchipudi is developed to worship the Lord, Krishna.
5. Manipuri- Originated from Manipur. Lai Haraoba is the origin and basis of all the dance forms of Manipuri dances.
6. Mohiniyattam- It originated from Kerala. The name Mohiniyattam is derived from the word Mohini, which is the feminine form of Lord Vishnu. The word Mohini means the dance of Mohini.
7. Odissi- It originated from Odisha. The costume used in Odissi is a silk saree.
8. Sattriya- Originated in Assam. It was innovated by the great Vaishnava saints and the reformers of Assam.
9. Chhau- Chhau is performed in Purulia, West Bengal, Seraikella, Jharkhand, and Mayurbhanj Chau of Odisha. It is a semi-classical dance form.