Classical Dancers of India: The term “classical dancer” typically refers to a performer who specializes in one of the classical dance forms. Classical dance is a highly stylized and structured form of dance that has its roots in ancient traditions and has been codified and refined over centuries.
Table of Contents
Classical Dancers of India
Different cultures have their own distinct classical dance styles, such as ballet in Western Europe, Kathak in North India, Bharatanatyam in South India, Odissi in Eastern India, and many others. Each style has its unique techniques, vocabulary of movements, musical accompaniment, and cultural significance.
“Art and Culture” is one of the most important topics asked in the General Studies and General Knowledge” Section of many competitive exams like UPSC CSE, State PCS, CDS, NDA, FSSAI, SSC, and Others. we are providing students important topics that are the favourite to most of the examiners while framing questions. “Important Classical Dances and Artists” is a part of this series and in this post, we are providing students with comprehensive notes on this topic. Sources of our notes are different government portals like “cultural India“, “Incredible India“, “Ministry of Culture” for the latest updates and many competitive books like NIOS, IGNOU, NCERT, the National Museum site for pictures and Wikipedia for static parts.
List of Important Classical Dancers of India
| Sl No. | Dance | Classical Dancers |
| 1 | Bharatnatyam | Yamini Krishnamurthy, Sonal Man Singh, Rukmini Devi Arundale, T Balasaraswati, Padma Subrahmanyam, S K Saroj, Rama Gopal, Leela Samson, Mrinalini Vikram Sarabhai, Vijayanthimala Bali, Malvika Sarkar, Priyadarshini Govind, Hema Malini |
| 2 | Kuchipudi | Yamini Krishnamurthy, Vedantam, Satyanarayan Sarma, Lakshminarayan Shashtri, Radha Reddy, Raja Reddy, Swapnasundari, Vempati Chinna Satyam |
| 3 | Odissi | Sanjukta Panigrahi, Sonal Man Singh, Kiran Segal, Madhavi Mudgal, Kali Charan Patnaik, Indrani Rahman, Sharon Lowen, Myrta Barvie (Argentina) Renowned Teachers: Monan Mahapatra, Kelucharan Mahapatra, Pankaj Charan Das, Harekrishna Behra, Mayadhar Raut |
| 4 | Kathakali | Vallthol Narayana Menon, Uday Shankar, K Krishnan Nair, Shanta Rao, Mrinalini Sarabhai, Anand Sivaraman, Krishnankutty |
| 5 | Kathak | Birju Maharaj, Lacchu Maharaj, Sukhdev Maharaj, Sitara Devi, Gopi Krishna, Shovana Narayan, Malvika Sarkar, Chandralekha, Bindadin Maharaj, Acchan Maharaj, Narayan Prasad |
| 6 | Manipuri | Guru Amli Singh, Atamb Singh, Nalkumar Singh, Jhaveri Sisters (Darshana Nayana, Suwarna, Ranjana Jhaveri), Savita Mehta, Kalawati Devi, Charu Mathur, Sonarik Singh, Gopal Singh, Bimbavati Devi |
| 7 | Mohiniattam | K Kalyankutty Amma, Bharati Shivaji, Ragini Devi, Sri Devi, Shanta Rao, Tara Nidigadi, Geeta Gayak |
| Also Read | |
| Social Security in India Notes | Industrial Relations & Labour Laws Notes |
| Insurance Notes | General Accounting Principle Notes |
| Science Notes | Polity Notes |
| Economics Notes | History Notes |
Famous Classical Dancers of India
India has a rich tradition of classical dance forms, and several classical dancers have achieved fame and recognition for their contributions to the art. Here are some renowned classical dancers of India:
- Pandit Birju Maharaj: A legendary Kathak dancer and choreographer, Pandit Birju Maharaj is considered a maestro in the field. He has received numerous awards and honors for his exceptional talent and has performed extensively both in India and abroad.
- Yamini Krishnamurthy: Renowned for her mastery of Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi, Yamini Krishnamurthy is a highly acclaimed classical dancer. She has a unique style that combines grace, technique, and expressive storytelling.
- Mallika Sarabhai: An accomplished Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi dancer, Mallika Sarabhai is known for her powerful and emotive performances. She is also a choreographer, social activist, and has been recognized with several awards for her contributions to dance and society.
- Alarmel Valli: Alarmel Valli is a celebrated exponent of Bharatanatyam. She is known for her impeccable footwork, expressive abhinaya (facial expressions), and a distinct style that seamlessly blends tradition and innovation.
- Raja and Radha Reddy: This husband-wife duo has made significant contributions to the field of Kuchipudi dance. Known for their dynamic performances, intricate footwork, and vibrant expressions, they have received national and international acclaim.
- Sonal Mansingh: Sonal Mansingh is a renowned Odissi dancer and choreographer. She is known for her technical brilliance, emotive storytelling, and contributions to the preservation and promotion of Indian classical dance forms.
- Shovana Narayan: Shovana Narayan is a distinguished Kathak classical dancer who has played a vital role in popularizing the dance form globally. She is known for her creativity, versatility, and efforts in promoting cross-cultural exchanges through dance.
- Dr. Padma Subrahmanyam: Dr. Padma Subrahmanyam is an acclaimed Bharatanatyam dancer, scholar, and choreographer. Known for her extensive research and innovative approach to the dance form, she has contributed to its revival and evolution.
- Smt. Vyjayanthimala Bali: Vyjayanthimala Bali is a celebrated Bharatanatyam and Bollywood actress who made a significant impact on both the realms of dance and cinema. She brought grace, charm, and a unique style to her dance performances.
- Shanta and V.P. Dhananjayan: This husband-wife duo is renowned for their expertise in Bharatanatyam. Shanta and Dhananjayan have not only performed extensively but have also established a dance academy, Bharata Kalanjali, to impart their knowledge and train future generations of dancers.
- Dr. Saroja Vaidyanathan: Dr. Saroja Vaidyanathan is a prominent Bharatanatyam dancer, choreographer, and teacher. She is known for her technical brilliance, expressive storytelling, and her role in promoting Indian classical dance globally.
- Uma Sharma: Uma Sharma is a distinguished Kathak dancer who has made significant contributions to the art form. Known for her dynamic footwork, emotive abhinaya, and creative interpretations, she has received several awards for her excellence in dance.
- Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra: Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra was a legendary figure in the world of Odissi dance. His mesmerizing performances and deep understanding of the art form have left an indelible mark on the Odissi tradition. He is also credited with training and inspiring numerous talented dancers.
- Dr. Maya Rao: Dr. Maya Rao was a renowned exponent of Kathak and an influential teacher. She played a vital role in popularizing Kathak in South India and established the Natya Institute of Kathak and Choreography in Bangalore, contributing to the growth and development of dance education.
FAQs on Classical Dancers of India
Q: What are the main classical dance forms in India?
A: India has several prominent classical dance forms, including Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Odissi, Kuchipudi, Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, Manipuri, and Sattriya.
Q: Who is considered the father of Indian classical dance?
A: Bharata Muni, an ancient Indian sage, is often regarded as the father of Indian classical dance. He is credited with writing the Natya Shastra, a treatise on the performing arts that encompasses various aspects of dance, music, and drama.
Q: What is the difference between Bharatanatyam and Kathak?
A: Bharatanatyam is a classical dance form from South India characterized by intricate footwork, expressive hand gestures, and elaborate facial expressions. Kathak, on the other hand, originated in North India and emphasizes rhythmic footwork, spins, storytelling, and intricate abhinaya (expression).
Q: How long does it take to become a proficient classical dancer?
A: Becoming a proficient classical dancer requires years of dedicated practice and training. It can take around 8 to 10 years or more, depending on the individual’s talent, commitment, and the rigor of the training program.
Q: Are there any male classical dancers in India?
A: Yes, classical dance is not limited to female performers. There are numerous talented male classical dancers in India who excel in various dance forms such as Kathak, Bharatanatyam, Odissi, and others.
Q: How do classical dancers contribute to Indian culture?
A: Classical dancers are custodians of India’s rich cultural heritage. They not only preserve and promote traditional dance forms but also contribute to the cultural fabric of the nation by portraying stories, mythology, social issues, and evoking emotions through their performances. They are ambassadors of Indian art and culture, both nationally and internationally.