The dances of India are among the oldest dance genres still widely practised today. In recent years they have become increasingly known and appreciated all over the world. This book details the history of the several styles of Indian dance and gives an account of the cultural, religious, social and political factors which influenced their growth and development. There are fascinating side-lights on the etiquette and mores of Indian society. Many of the myths and legends which form the subject matter of the dances are recounted and theories suggested to explain their inspiration and sources. This is a comprehensive survey for readers who want to relate the classical dances to the broader background of Indian culture. For students, Indian and non- Indian, it provides valuable historic and technical information; and for dance lovers it serves as a guide telling them what to look for in a performance. There is, in addition, an overview of India’s many folk dances. The glossary of terms germane to the different styles is a useful adjunct as is the bibliography. CONTENTS Acknowledgements 7 Map of important dance centres 8 Introduction 9 Chapters 1. Indian Classical Dance: The Background 25 2. Dasi Attam 41 3. A Dasi Attam Performance 53 4. The Devadasis 63 5. Kuchipudi 79 6. Bhagvata Mela Nataka 87 7. Kuravanji 95 8. Kathakali 101 9. Make-up, Costume, Head-dress and Jewellery of Kathakali 119 10. Mohini Attam 131 11. Ottan Tullal 135 12. Yakshagana 141 13. Kathak 143 14. A Kathak Performance 163 15. The Ras Lila of Braj 171 16. Manipuri Dance 177 17. Lai Haroba, Ras Lila and Other Dances 189 18. Sattra Dances of Assam 201 19. Odissi 207 20. Santiniketan 215 21. Uday Shankar 221 22. Chhau 227 23. Folk Dances 231 India's Dancers 237 Glossary 299 Bibliography 305 Index 309