[Table] Classical Dances in India – Compared for UPSC Prelims

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In this page, classical dances in India are compared according to the place, origin, performer, theme, important features, and terms in a table for faster reading/revision and better memory. Please read it after reading dance mindmap or if you have really less-time for reading/revision.

UPSC Previous Year Questions

How do you distinguish between Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam dances?(2012)

1. Dancers occasionally speaking dialogues is found in Kuchipudi dance but not in Bharatanatyam.
2. Dancing on the brass plate by keeping the feet on its edges is a feature of Bharatanatyam but Kuchipudi dance does not have such a form of movements.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

(a) 1 only

(b) 2 only

(c) Both 1 and 2

(d) Neither 1 nor 2

Solution (a)

In the context of the cultural history of India, a pose in dance and dramas called ‘Tribhanga’ has been a favourite of Indian artists from ancient times till today. Which one of the following statements best describes this pose? (2013)

(a) One leg is bent and the body is slightly but oppositely curved at waist and neck

(b) Facial expressions, hand gestures and make-up are combined to symbolize certain epic or historic characters

(c) Movements of body, face and hands are used to express oneself or to tell a story

(d) A little smile, slightly curved waist and certain hand gestures are emphasized to express the feelings of love or eroticism

Solution (a)

With reference to the famous Sattriya dance, consider the following statements: (2014)

1. Sattriya is a combination of music, dance and drama.
2. It is a centuries-old living tradition of Vaishnavites of Assam.
3. It is based on classical Ragas and Talas of devotional songs composed by Tulsidas, Kabir and Mirabai.

Which of the statements given above is /are correct?

1. 1 only
2. 1 and 2 only
3. 2 and 3 only
4. 1, 2 and 3

Solution (d)

Consider the following pairs (2014)

1. Garba: Gujarat
2. Mohiniattam: Odisha
3. Yakshagana: Karnataka

Which of the pairs given above is/are correctly matched?

1. 1 only
2. 2 and 3 only
3. 1 and 3 only
4. 1, 2 and 3

Solution (c)

With reference to Manipuri Sankirtana, consider the following statements: (2017)

1. It is a song and dance performance

2. Cymbals are the only musical instruments used in the performance

3. It is performed to narrate the life and deeds of Lord Krishna.

Which of the statements given above is/ are correct?

(a) 1, 2 and 3

(b) 1 and 3 only

(c) 2 and 3 only

(d) 1 only

Solution (b)

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