Bharatanatyam originated in Tamil Nadu. It has been nurtured in the temples and courts of southern India since ancient times. Today Bharata Natyam is one of the most popular and widely performed dance styles.
Kathak originated as a temple dance. Some believe it evolved from Lord Krishna's raas lilas, style gradually changed during the Mughal period under the influence of Persian dance, a major change being straight knees instead of the bent knees used in most other Indian classical forms. Intricate footwork, fast spins as well as abhinaya are the highlights of Kathak. Today there are three main schools of Kathak: the Jaipur gharana (school), the Lucknow gharana and Benares Gharana.
Kathakali originated in the region today known as Kerala during the 17th century. It?s most well-known for its elaborate make-up code.
Kuchipudi is a classical dance form from Andhra Pradesh on the southeastern coast of India. It is famous for its dancers' feats of balance as they skillfully maneuver on the edges of brass plates.
Mohiniattan was nurtured in the region of Kerala in southwestern India. The name Mohiniattam literally means 'Dance of the Enchantress,' and it does have a mesmerizing quality. The white and gold costume, arresting hairstyle and the highly graceful movements in medium tempo, contribute to this aesthetic effect.
Odissi originated in the state of Orissa, in eastern India. It is the oldest surviving dance form of India on the basis of archaeological evidence. It is distinguished from other classical Indian dance forms by the importance it places upon the independent movement of the head, chest, and pelvis, and the basic square stance known as chauka.
Manipuri originates in the northeast-Indian state of Manipur deep in the Himalayas where dance is an integral part of life. The performance tradition for the proscenium stage has been adapted from the living temple dance tradition. Technically Manipuri dance has two parallel styles Lasya – the female style and tandava – the male style, and contemporary choreography draws from both styles.