Kuchipudi - the classical dance form of Andhra Pradesh

Posted Date: 16-Sep-2011	Category: Andhra music and dance	Rating:
Author: Kalyani	Member Level: Silver	Points: 30 (Rs 20)

India is famous for its classical dance forms which have originated in various states of India. In this article you will find about the world famous classical dance form of Andhra Pradesh which is known as Kuchipudi.

Introduction of Kuchipudi Dance

A dance is a poetic expression of various moods in a rhythmic way with wonderful gestures and subtle facial expressions. Since early times dances have developed into classical art forms and have a high place in the Indian society with religious sanctity as well. It is a known fact that Lord Shiva popularly known as Nataraja - the King of Dances and He symbolizes the Cosmic dance.

History of the Kuchipudi dance

Kuchipudi is a small village in the Krishna district of Andhra Pradesh. The village was presented to the Brahmins in the 17th century who were in those days experts in performing arts like dance and drama. During the early part of middle ages the Veera Saivites and Saivites held sway over the Telugu land and the early dance forms were based on Shiva leelas. Later on when the Vaishnava cult came into dominance, Bhaagavata Melas which were the operas were based on Vishnu Melas and the performers of these Melas came to be known as Kuchipudi Bhaagavathulu.

Kuchipudi dance enjoys a high place among the other Indian classical dance forms. The dance form derived its name from the village of Kuchipudi in the Krishna district of Andhra Pradesh. In the early periods of Shaivite cult, the dance was performed by both men and women which were based on legends of Shiva and were performed mainly in Shiva temples. Later on, there was a revival of the dance form with the inclusion of soft and romantic elements from Vishnu puranam during the Vaishnavite cult. Later on there was a slow disintegration of this dance form and in the 14th century A.D, a great and gifted teacher named Sri Siddhedra Yogi revived this ancient dance form, gave a definite format to it by formulating a syllabus and disciple for this dance.

About the Kuchipudi dance

Kuchipudi is a complete form of dance that comprises of Nritta, Nritya and Natya. Nritta consists of teermanams and jathis, Nritya consists of Sabdams and Natya comprises of acting with Mudras. Kuchipudi, generally exhibits scenes from the Hindu epics, legends and mythological tales through a combination of music, dance and acting. Apart from these themes, the present day forms are based on social themes as well. The major attraction of this dance style is the performance of Tarangam. The dance became more attractive when dancing with the feet on the rim of a brass plate was introduced. Bhaama Kalaapam and Golla Kalaapam are the two major Kalaapams that gained popularity and are much practiced / expertised by the dancers.

Dr.Vempati Chinna Satyam, Vendantam Satyanarayana Sarma, Raja and Radha Reddy and Pasumarthi Venugopala Sarma are some of the renowned Kuchipudi dancers.

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