Classical Indian dance - Definition and Overview

Classical Indian dance is any dance form that is based on Natya Shastra, and currently comprises

Bharata Natyam

Odissi

Mohiniattam

Kuchipudi

Note that Manipuri is clearly distinct from the above four. Some also include

• classical dances of Assam:
  • Sattriya,
  • Savaguwa and Rang-guwa Ojapali dance
  • Dewgharar Dev-Natir Nritya

• the North Indian dance forms of Persian origin, such as Kathak

• Vasantahabba: The festival of Spring, organized by Nrityagram and held at the outskirts of Bangalore on the first Saturday of February every year (http://www.anuragjain.com/vasantahabba.html)
• Classical Indian dance: illustrated article with the largest collection of photos and streaming videos on the Web (http://in.geocities.com/medhahari/classical_Indian_dance/classical_Indian_dance.html)