Dance of Divinity
Kuchipudi is the classical dance form from the South-East Indian state of Andhra Pradesh. It derives its name from the village of Kuchelapuram, a small village about 65 kms from Vijaywada. It is known for its graceful movements and its strong narrative / dramatic character.
The Kuchipudi is a dance-drama of Nritta, Nritya and Natya. The Nritta consists of teermanams and jatis, the Nritya of Sabdams, and the Natya of acting with mudras for the songs. Nritta encompasses steps and movements in the form of patterns of dance which, though ornate in themselves, have no meaning to convey.
Kuchipudi performances are dance dramas, commonly referred as Ata Bhagavatham. In a Kuchipudi performance, each principal character introduces himself or herself on the stage with a small composition of dance and song, specially designed to identify the character. Kuchipudi costumes look similar to Bharathanatyam costumes. Elegant foot work is an important aspect of Kuchipudi. Some special performances include those of dancing on brass plates and moving the plate with the feet to the tune of accompanying music.
The Indian dance is one of the oldest art that has been through a steady development for nearly two thousand years. The Indian classical dance has its origin in the temples where it was used to illustrate the Hindu mythologies.This art was performed in the temples by the Devadasis, ladies who dedicated themselves to God. With the passage of time, this form of art was used both as a means to worship God and a way to express one's emotion or state of mind.
Indian classical dances are dances of the mind and soul, and are traditional in nature.