Classical dance, like most of traditional Indian culture, is strongly regionally identified; Kuchipudi is largely found in Andhra Pradesh.
Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Orissi, Kathakali, and Manipuri are some of the other Indian classical dance genres.
Kuchipudi, like most of Indian dance, has its origins in
religious life.
It was created as part of a religious ceremony in the
village of Kuchipudi.
The Maharaja of Golconda was so taken with the dance that he
bestowed the hamlet to the brahmin families who lived there, on the condition
that they continue to cultivate the art, which they have done.
In terms of style, the dance is influenced by Bharatanatyam,
and it, like other Indian dance, has a well-developed gesture language derived
from traditional manuals.
At the same time, the form is softer and less geometric than
Bharatanatyam, indicating that folk traditions have influenced it.
Telegu is the language of the dance-dramas, which reflects the
local culture.
Kuchipudi, like many classical dances, has seen certain alterations
in recent generations, owing to the transfer in the dance's major location from
stage to stage.
One of the most major modifications has been the inclusion
of women in the dance.
Mohan Khokar's Traditions of Indian Classical Dance,
published in 1984, has further information.
You may also want to read more about Hinduism here.
Be sure to check out my writings on religion here.
