Mohiniyattam - Indian Classical Dance Forms - Art and Culture Notes
Mohiniyattam, along with Kathakali, is one of two traditional dance traditions that originated in Kerala. Mohiniyattam draws its name from the word 'Mohini,' which means 'dance of Mohini,' the feminine form of Lord Vishnu. This article will explain to you the concepts related to Mohiniyattam which will be helpful in Indian Art and Culture preparation for the UPSC Civil service exam.
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Mohiniyattam
- Mohiniyattam, or the Dance of an Enchantress ('Mohini' means beautiful woman and 'attam' means dance), is a solo dance performance by women that was further refined by Vadivelu in the 19th century and rose to prominence under the monarchs of Travancore in what is now Kerala.
- Swathi Thirunal, the Travancore ruler in the nineteenth century, was a renowned patron.
- After it had faded into obscurity, it was resurrected by the famed Malayali poet V. N. Menon and Kalyani Amma.
- At the 11th century Vishnu temple at Thrikodithanam, Kottayam, there are statues of female dancers in positions similar to those seen in Mohiniyattam.
- Mohiniyattam is mentioned in the Vyavahara Mala written by Mazha mangalam Narayanan Namboodi.
| Other Relevant Links | |
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| Indian Classical Dance Forms | Bharatnatyam |
| Kuchipudi | Odissi |
| Kathakali | Manipuri |
| Kathak | Sattriya |
Mohiniyattam - Features
- Bharatnatyam's grace and elegance are combined with Kathakali's vigour in Mohiniyattam. There is a distinct lack of thumping footsteps, and the footwork is soft.
- In general, Mohiniyattam tells the story of Vishnu's feminine dance.
- Like other classical dances, it has its own Nritta and Nritya aspects.
- In a Mohiniyattam recital, the Lasya (beauty, elegance) part of the dance is paramount. As a result, it is predominantly performed by female dancers.
- Mohiniyattam's costume is particularly important, with white and off-white being the predominant colors and gold brocade motifs.
- There is no extensive make-up on her face. On her ankles, the dancer wears a leather strap with bells (Ghungroo).
- Acting is emphasised in Mohiniyattam. The dancer identifies with the characters and emotions present in compositions such as the Padams and Pada Varnams, which allow for a wide range of facial expressions.
- The hand movements, which number 24 in total, are mostly taken from Hastha Lakshana Deepika, a Kathakali literature. A few are taken from Natya Shastra, Abhinaya Darpana, and Balarama Bharatham.
- The facial expressions and gestures are more natural (gramya) and realistic (lokadharmi) than theatrical or rigidly conventional (natyadharmi).
- A Mohiniyattam performance is used to represent the element of air.
- The collection of forty basic dance movements is known as 'Atavakul or Atavus'.
- The Carnatic style of music is used to accompany this dancing form.
- Manipravalam (a macaronic language based on Sanskrit and Tamil/Malayalam) is used for the lyrics.
- Flute, veena, and percussion instruments such as Mridangam, Maddalam, Idakka, and Kuzhitalam are employed.
- The majority of the songs are in the Sopana style.
Conclusion
Its origins can be traced back to the Indian state of Kerala. Women execute the dance in honor of the Hindu god Vishnu, who takes on the shape of the enchantress Mohini. Mohiniattam is a female-only dancing form. It is also milder than Kathakali, which is a very strong dance. The dance exemplifies the essence of female grace. Shringara (erotic) images of heavenly love are also notable. The dance was traditionally performed solo, but in the twenty-first century, it can also be performed in groups.
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| Indian Art and Culture | Performing Arts |
| Indian Music | Indian Circus |
| Indian Puppetry | Indian Theatre |
FAQs
Question 1: What is Mohiniyattam, and where did it originate?
Answer: Mohiniyattam is a classical Indian dance form that originated in the state of Kerala. The name 'Mohiniyattam' is derived from two words: 'Mohini' (the enchantress) and 'Attam' (dance), meaning "the dance of the enchantress." It is one of the eight classical dance forms of India, known for its graceful, feminine movements and emphasis on storytelling through facial expressions, hand gestures (mudras), and intricate footwork. Mohiniyattam was traditionally performed in temples and is closely associated with the cultural heritage of Kerala.
Question 2: What are the key features of Mohiniyattam?
Answer: Mohiniyattam is characterized by its slow, graceful, and fluid movements, with a focus on facial expressions and hand gestures. The dance is typically performed solo, and the dancer often portrays female characters from Indian mythology, especially those involved in love, devotion, or longing. The dance is performed to the accompaniment of traditional Carnatic music, and the costume includes a traditional Kerala saree, complete with the distinctive "mundu" (a traditional garment worn by women in Kerala) and "neriyathum" (a cloth draped over the shoulder).
Question 3: What are the different aspects of Mohiniyattam performance?
Answer: A Mohiniyattam performance typically consists of various sections, including:
- Alarippu: The initial warm-up sequence, performed to prepare the body for the dance.
- Jatiswaram: A rhythm-based item that involves complex footwork and hand gestures.
- Varnam: The main section of the performance, where the dancer portrays a specific character or theme, often with intense emotional expression.
- Tillana: A lively, energetic item that concludes the performance.
- Shloka: A prayer or devotional verse sung to invoke the blessings of the divine.
Each of these sections is marked by specific rhythms, tempos, and intricate movements that highlight the grace and beauty of the dance.
Question 4: How is Mohiniyattam different from other classical dance forms of India?
Answer: Mohiniyattam stands apart from other classical dance forms in its emphasis on femininity, grace, and storytelling through subtle and delicate expressions. Unlike Bharatanatyam, which is more vigorous and poses a spiritual connection with the divine, Mohiniyattam is softer and often explores themes of love and longing. The fluidity of its movements and the focus on graceful, sensuous expression are key characteristics that distinguish Mohiniyattam from other dance forms such as Kathak, Odissi, or Kuchipudi.
Question 5: Who are some famous practitioners of Mohiniyattam?
Answer: Some of the most prominent practitioners of Mohiniyattam include:
- Balamani Amma: A renowned dancer who revived the classical dance form in modern times.
- Kalyani Kumari: A prominent figure in the field who has contributed significantly to the development of Mohiniyattam.
- Chandrika Unni: A well-known dancer and choreographer, famous for her performances and contributions to the dance form. These artists have played a vital role in popularizing Mohiniyattam and ensuring its continued prominence in the cultural landscape.
MCQs
- Which of the following is a key characteristic of Mohiniyattam?
A) It is performed in a sitting posture
B) It is characterized by vigorous and fast movements
C) It is characterized by slow, graceful movements and facial expressions
D) It is performed only by male dancers
Answer: (C) See the Explanation
Mohiniyattam is known for its slow, graceful, and fluid movements. The dance focuses on feminine expressions and emotions, with an emphasis on storytelling through facial expressions, mudras, and body movements.
- Mohiniyattam is primarily associated with which state of India?
A) Tamil Nadu
B) Kerala
C) Karnataka
D) Andhra Pradesh
Answer: (B) See the Explanation
Mohiniyattam is a classical dance form from Kerala, deeply embedded in the cultural heritage of the state. It is one of the eight classical dance forms of India and is performed primarily in Kerala.
- Which of the following is the main instrument used to accompany Mohiniyattam?
A) Sitar
B) Tabla
C) Carnatic music
D) Flute
Answer: (C) See the Explanation
Mohiniyattam is performed to the accompaniment of Carnatic music, which is the classical music of South India. The music plays a crucial role in setting the rhythm and mood of the performance.
- Which of the following is the final section of a Mohiniyattam performance?
A) Varnam
B) Tillana
C) Alarippu
D) Shloka
Answer: (B) See the Explanation
Tillana is the lively and energetic final item of a Mohiniyattam performance. It involves fast-paced movements and concludes the dance on an energetic note.
- What does the term "Mohini" in Mohiniyattam refer to?
A) The dancer's costume
B) A divine female character in Indian mythology
C) The rhythm of the dance
D) The music associated with the dance
Answer: (B) See the Explanation
The term "Mohini" refers to the enchanting female form of the god Vishnu, who is believed to be the most beautiful and captivating figure in Hindu mythology. The dance form is named after her, symbolizing grace and allure.
GS Mains Questions and Model Answers
Q1: Discuss the history and evolution of Mohiniyattam, highlighting its cultural significance in Kerala.
Answer: Mohiniyattam has its roots in the ancient performing arts of Kerala and has evolved over centuries. It was initially performed in temples as part of religious rituals, but it began to gain prominence as a classical dance form in the 19th and 20th centuries. The dance form experienced a revival in the modern era, thanks to artists like Balamani Amma and Kalyani Kumari. Mohiniyattam holds cultural significance in Kerala, not only as an art form but also as a representation of the state’s heritage, mythology, and devotional expressions. It is traditionally associated with themes of love, longing, and devotion, and is performed during festivals, cultural gatherings, and temple rituals. Its distinct grace and feminine portrayal make it an essential part of Kerala’s cultural identity.
Q2: Examine the importance of Mohiniyattam in the context of India’s classical dance forms and its contribution to Indian cultural heritage.
Answer: Mohiniyattam plays an important role in the ensemble of India's classical dance forms. It is one of the eight classical dance forms recognized by the Sangeet Natak Akademi, and its graceful movements and emotional expressions have made it a significant cultural asset. The dance form highlights the importance of storytelling through movement, facial expressions, and traditional music. Its focus on feminine grace, fluidity, and spiritual themes sets it apart from other classical dances like Bharatanatyam and Kathak. Through its rich heritage and diverse repertoire, Mohiniyattam contributes to the preservation of India’s traditional art forms, promoting cultural exchange, and sustaining the legacy of classical dance in modern times.
Q3: How has Mohiniyattam contributed to the preservation of Kerala's cultural heritage, and what challenges does it face today?
Answer: Mohiniyattam has significantly contributed to the preservation of Kerala’s cultural heritage by being an emblematic representation of the state’s performing arts. It embodies the mythology, values, and devotional practices of Kerala, and its continued practice supports the cultural traditions of the region. However, Mohiniyattam faces challenges in the modern era, including the pressures of commercialization and the influence of global dance styles. There is also a lack of widespread institutional support and training for the art form, which limits its growth among younger generations. Efforts by individual artists and cultural organizations continue to keep the tradition alive, but the dance form needs more attention to ensure its survival in the face of evolving artistic landscapes.
Previous Year Questions on Mohiniyattam
1. UPSC 2020
Question: Discuss the significance of Mohiniyattam as a classical dance form and its contribution to the cultural heritage of Kerala.
Answer: This question required a detailed discussion of Mohiniyattam’s historical context, its significance in Kerala’s cultural heritage, and its unique characteristics as a classical dance form. The answer should have addressed the dance’s graceful movements, emotional expression, and deep connection with Kerala's religious and social life.
2. UPSC 2018
Question: Explain the evolution of Mohiniyattam and its role in modern Indian dance culture.
Answer: The question focused on the evolution of Mohiniyattam, tracing its origins from temple performances to its current status as a prominent classical dance form. The answer required an analysis of the contributions of key practitioners and the dance’s relevance in today’s cultural context. The revival of the dance form and its role in representing Kerala's traditions in contemporary dance culture were also crucial to the answer.
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