Question

Which of the following is a classical dance form?
A. Kalaripayattu
B. Chhobia
C. Bhawai
D. Kathakali

Answer 1

Hint: India has a total of 8 classical dance forms from diverse parts of the country. These classical dance forms have been recognised by the Sangeet Natak Academy of India and differ from the generic understanding of folk dances as there is much academic and scholarly literature present behind the classical dance forms.

Complete answer: Kathakali is the classical dance form of Kerala. The origins of the dance form are vague but extending from its Hindu storytelling roots, the dance form can be traced back to the temple performances. The dancers are adorned with colourful costume and makeup but the face mask used is the most distinguishable part of this form.
- Kalaripayattu is an ancient martial arts form which found significance in the art of battlefield.
- Bhawai is a folk theatre and dance tradition from western India.
- Kathakali finds mention in the Natya Shastra of the Hindu tradition which is composed of 36 chapters and is a renowned form of classical dance. The musicians are present on stage, with the dancers and play live music. The performance typically starts with the tuning of instruments itself.
Thus, option (D) is the correct answer.

Note: Apart from Kathakali, the other acknowledged classical dance forms in India are Kathak, Bharatnatiyam, Odissi, Manipuri, Kuchipudi, Sattriya and Mohiniattam. Moreover, many art forms over the world find similarities with each other. For instance, the Japanese art form Kabuki is similar to Kathakali.