Dance Forms in India: Complete Guide to Classical and Folk Dances with States, Features, and Exam Facts and Download PDF

Indian dance forms are a vital part of India’s cultural heritage, rooted in the Natya Shastra and reflecting spiritual, social, and regional traditions. They include eight classical styles like Bharatanatyam (Tamil Nadu), Kathak (Uttar Pradesh), Kathakali (Kerala), Kuchipudi (Andhra Pradesh), Odissi (Odisha), Manipuri (Manipur), Sattriya (Assam), and Mohiniyattam (Kerala). In India, dance forms can be broadly classified into 2 categories: classical and folk dance forms. Classical dances follow codified techniques, while folk and tribal dances are community-based and celebratory. These traditions play a key role in festivals, rituals, and storytelling. For competitive exams, Indian dance is an important Art and Culture topic, focusing on origins, states, and features.

List of Dance Forms in India PDF 2026 in English

 

 

What Are Dance Forms in India?

Dance Forms in India, both classical and folk, are rooted in ancient texts like the Natyashastra and blend spirituality, culture, music, and rhythm. Forms such as Bharatanatyam and Kathak express mythology, devotion, and social life through nritta, nritya, and natya. Dance plays a key role in rituals, festivals, and community celebrations. Nationally, eight classical dances that are admired worldwide for their artistic depth.

 

Classification of Dance Forms in India

Indian dance includes eight officially recognised classical forms based on the Natyashastra, along with numerous folk and tribal dances reflecting India’s regional diversity. Classical styles such as Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kathakali, Odissi, Manipuri, Mohiniyattam, Kuchipudi, and Sattriya emphasise codified technique, expression, and storytelling. Folk and tribal dances like Bihu, Garba, Bhangra, Chhau, Kalbelia, and Cheraw are community-centric, celebratory, and closely linked to festivals, harvests, and rituals. Overall, Indian dance represents a balance between structured classical discipline and vibrant regional and indigenous traditions.

 

List of Classical Dances of India with States

List of 8 Classical Dance forms of India, State-wise

Classical Dance Forms of India

State of Origin

Key Features and Cultural Significance

Bharatanatyam

Tamil Nadu

Oldest classical dance form; known for sculpturesque poses, expressive hand gestures (mudras), and devotional themes.

Kathak

Uttar Pradesh (North, West & Central India)

Emphasises rhythmic footwork, graceful spins, and narrative expression through gestures.

Kathakali

Kerala

Dance-drama style with elaborate costumes, facial makeup, and strong facial expressions.

Kuchipudi

Andhra Pradesh

It combines classical dance, drama, and music, often including dialogue delivery and group performance.

Odissi

Odisha

Fluid torso movements, sculptural poses, and depiction of stories from Hindu mythology.

Manipuri

Manipur

Soft, graceful movements with a focus on themes from Vaishnavism and devotion to Lord Krishna.

Sattriya

Assam

Based on the Bhakti movement, performed in satras (monasteries), with devotional and storytelling elements.

Mohiniyattam

Kerala

Feminine and elegant dance with slow, graceful swaying movements and expressive eye gestures.

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List of Folk Dances in India

Indian folk dances represent the rich culture and traditions of the communities from which they originate. These dances are usually performed during important occasions such as festivals, weddings, and childbirth celebrations, showcasing the joy, customs, and heritage of the people.

Origin State

List of Folk Dances

Andhra Pradesh

Vilasini Natyam, Bhamakalpam, Veeranatyam, Dappu, Tappeta Gullu, Lambadi, Dhimsa, Kolattam

Arunachal Pradesh

Buiya, Chalo, Wancho, Pasi Kongki, Ponung, Popir

Assam

Bihu, Bichhua, Natpuja, Maharas, Kaligopal, Bagurumba, Naga dance, Khel Gopal

Bihar

Jata-Jatin, Bakho-Bakhain, Panwariya

Chhattisgarh

Gaur Maria, Panthi, Raut Nacha, Pandwani, Vedamati, Kapalik

Gujarat

Garba, Dandiya Raas, Tippani Juriun, Bhavai

Goa

Tarangamel, Koli, Dekhni, Fugdi, Shigmo, Ghode, Modni, Samayi Nrutya, Jagar, Ranmale

Haryana

Jhumar, Phag, Daph, Dhamal, Loor, Gugga, Khor

Himachal Pradesh

Jhora, Jhali, Chharhi, Dhaman, Chhapeli, Mahasu

Jammu & Kashmir

Rauf, Hikat, Mandjas, Kud Dandi Nach

Jharkhand

Alkap, Karma Munda, Agni, Jhumar, Janani Jhumar, Mardana Jhumar, Paika, Phagua

Karnataka

Yakshagana, Huttari, Suggi, Kunitha, Karga

Kerala

Ottam Thullal, Kaikottikali

Maharashtra

Lavani, Nakata, Koli, Lezim, Gafa, Dahikala, Dasavtar

Madhya Pradesh

Jawara, Matki, Aada, Khada Nach, Phulpati, Grida Dance, Selalarki, Selabhadoni

Manipur

Dol Cholam, Thang Ta, Lai Haraoba, Pung Cholom

Meghalaya

Ka Shad Suk Mynsiem, Nongkrem, Laho

Mizoram

Cheraw Dance, Khuallam, Chailam, Sawlakin, Chawnglaizawn, Zangtalam

Nagaland

Rangma, Zeliang, Nsuirolians, Gethinglim

Odisha

Savari, Ghumara, Painka, Munari

Punjab

Bhangra, Giddha, Daff, Dhaman, Bhand

Rajasthan

Ghumar, Chakri, Ganagor, Jhulan Leela, Jhuma, Suisini, Ghapal

Sikkim

Chu Faat, Sikmari, Singhi Chaam or the Snow Lion, Yak Chaam, Denzong Gnenha, Tashi Yangku

Tamil Nadu

Kumi, Kolattam, Kavadi

Tripura

Hojagiri

Uttar Pradesh

Nautanki, Raslila, Kajri, Jhora, Chappeli

Uttarakhand

Garhwali, Kumayuni, Kajari, Jhora, Raslila

Check the Expected Questions from the Dance Forms in India

Difference Between Classical and Folk Dance Forms

Check the Difference Between Classical and Folk Dance Forms in India.

 

Difference Between Classical and Folk Dance Forms in India
Basis Classical Dance Folk Dance
Origin Originates from ancient Sanskrit treatises like the Natya Shastra and evolved mainly through temple and court traditions. Emerged from rural and regional traditions, reflecting the daily life, culture, and customs of common people.
Training Method Requires long-term, rigorous training under the Guru–Shishya tradition to master complex techniques, mudras, and expressions. Learned informally within communities, emphasising enthusiasm, rhythm, and collective participation rather than technical precision.
Costumes & Music Features elaborate, style-specific costumes, makeup, and ornaments, accompanied by classical Carnatic or Hindustani music. Uses vibrant, region-specific attire with folk music, simple instruments, and traditional songs.
Performance Style Highly structured and disciplined, focusing on grace (Lasya) or power (Tandava) with well-defined choreography. Energetic and lively, often performed in groups, circles, or lines during festivals and celebrations.
Exam Relevance Questions focus on the eight classical dances and their states of origin. Emphasis is on identifying major folk dances and linking them with regions and festivals.

 

Important Facts About Indian Dance Forms

Indian classical dances are rooted in the Natya Shastra. Eight forms are recognised by the Sangeet Natak Akademi, while the Ministry of Culture includes nine by adding Chhau.

  • Oldest Dance Form: Bharatanatyam is regarded as the oldest classical dance, tracing its origins to ancient Tamil traditions.

  • Regional Origins: Each dance form developed in a specific region—such as Kathak in North India, Kathakali and Mohiniyattam in Kerala, and Sattriya in Assam.

  • Temple & Ritual Connection: Several dances evolved from temple and devotional practices, including Bharatanatyam, Odissi, Kuchipudi, Mohiniyattam, Sattriya, and Manipuri.

 

Dance Forms in India Pictures

Here are the dance forms in India mentioned in the pictures below for reference.

 

 

Dance Forms in India for Competitive Exams

Indian dance forms are an important part of Static GK for UPSC, SSC, and Banking exams. They are broadly classified into Classical and Folk dances. Eight classical forms, such as Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kathakali, Odissi, and Sattriya, are frequently asked, along with their states, features, and exponents. Folk dances like Bhangra, Garba, Bihu, and Ghoomar are linked to festivals and regions. Exams mainly focus on state–dance pairing, key characteristics, personalities, and UNESCO-recognised dance forms.

 

National Dance Of India

Bharatanatyam is one of the most popular classical dance forms of India, originating from Tamil Nadu and widely regarded as the national dance form of the country. Its roots can be traced back to the ancient Sanskrit text Natyashastra, written by the sage Bharata, which is the foundation of Indian performing arts.

Traditionally, Bharatanatyam was performed by women in Hindu temples as a form of devotional expression, depicting stories of gods and goddesses through graceful movements and expressions. In the 20th century, the dance form gained global recognition and began to be widely performed on public stages.

Bharatanatyam is known for its distinctive style, with bent knees, rhythmic footwork, expressive eye movements, and intricate hand gestures known as mudras, which are used to narrate mythological and spiritual stories.

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History and Evolution of Classical Dances in India

The history and evolution of classical dances in India can be traced back to ancient temples and sacred scriptures, especially the Natya Shastra, written more than 2,000 years ago by sage Bharata Muni. Indian classical dance developed as a spiritual and artistic expression that beautifully blends storytelling, music, rhythm, and emotion. These dance traditions were preserved through generations across different regions of India, giving rise to the diverse classical dance forms seen today.

According to the Natya Shastra, Lord Brahma created the Natya Veda, the fifth Veda, by combining words from the Rig Veda, gestures from the Yajur Veda, music from the Sam Veda, and emotions from the Atharva Veda. This divine art form was created at the request of the Gods to provide entertainment and spiritual enlightenment to humankind, highlighting the sacred importance of dance in Indian culture.

Indian mythology is rich with references to dance, from Lord Shiva’s Tandava, symbolising creation, preservation, and destruction, to Goddess Parvati’s graceful Lasya, representing beauty and femininity. The social and cultural importance of dance is also evident in ancient archaeological findings, such as the community dance engravings at Bhimbetka and the famous Harappan bronze dancing girl.

The Natya Shastra, compiled between 200 BC and 200 AD, is the earliest and most comprehensive written work on Indian classical dance. It provides detailed guidance on stage design, costumes, ornaments, dance techniques, postures, expressions, and audience engagement. Bharata Muni described dance as the “complete art”, as it brings together music, sculpture, poetry, and drama into one powerful form of expression.

 

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Interesting Facts about Classical Dances of India

Bharatanatyam is one of the oldest and most popular classical dance forms of India, rooted in the principles of Bharata’s Natyashastra. It features a rich repertoire of compositions in Tamil, Telugu, and Sanskrit, expressing themes of Shringara (romantic love) and Bhakti (devotion). Bharatanatyam music follows the Carnatic music tradition of South India and blends rhythm, expression, and storytelling.

Kathak is the principal classical dance of North India and is widely performed in Uttar Pradesh, Rajasthan, Delhi, and Madhya Pradesh. It originated from the storytelling tradition of Kathakaras, who narrated tales from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Puranas through expressive movement and rhythm.

Kuchipudi, one of India’s major classical dance styles, originated in Andhra Pradesh and flourished under the influence of the Bhakti movement. It is a dance-drama tradition that combines Nritta (pure dance), Nritya (expressive dance), and Natya (dramatic storytelling) using graceful movements, rhythmic patterns, and symbolic hand gestures.

Odissi developed in Odisha (formerly Orissa) and was originally performed by temple dancers known as Maharis. In the 20th century, it was revived as a classical theatre art inspired by ancient sculptures, paintings, and literary traditions of the region.

Kathakali, meaning “story play,” originated in Kerala during the 17th century. Supported by royal patronage, it evolved into a powerful dance-drama tradition depicting stories from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, known for its elaborate costumes, makeup, and dramatic expressions.

Sattriya is a classical dance form from Assam, developed in the 16th century in Vaishnava monasteries known as Sattras under the guidance of saint-reformer Srimanta Shankaradeva. It is dedicated to Lord Krishna and features refined hand gestures, footwork, expressive storytelling, and devotional themes.

Manipuri dance originated in Manipur and is deeply rooted in the Vaishnava traditions of the Meitei community. It consists of two major forms — Jagoi (Lasya) and Cholom (Tandava) — representing graceful and vigorous dance traditions, respectively.

Mohiniattam is a graceful classical dance from Kerala, named after the mythical enchantress Mohini. It is a solo female dance style known for soft movements, gentle expressions, and temple traditions. The dance uses traditional Kerala rhythms with instruments like the Maddalam and Edakka.

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Other Dance Forms of India

Particulars

Description

Chhau

It is a tribal martial art dance popular in the Indian states of Odisha, Jharkhand, and West Bengal.

Garba

Garba is a traditional Gujarati folk dance that is performed during Navratri.

Kalbelia

It is a sensual folk dance performed by the women of Rajasthan’s Kalbelia Community. The serpents’ costumes and dance movements are similar.

Ghoomar

Ghoomar is a Bhil tribal folk dance honouring the goddess Sarasvati that has now been adopted by various Rajasthani clans.

Dandiya Raas

The Gujarati folk dance is called dandiya raas. This well-known socio-religious dance, which has its roots in Gujarat, is performed in celebration of Navratri.

Bhangra

Bhangra is a highly energetic Punjabi folk dance that is enjoyed during festivals.

 

List of Dance Forms in India 2026 in Hindi

राज्यों के साथ भारत के नृत्य रूप - भारत में शास्त्रीय नृत्य रूप 

यहां हमने आपके संदर्भ के लिए भारत के शास्त्रीय नृत्य रूपों की सूची जैसे तमिलनाडु का शास्त्रीय नृत्य, केरल का शास्त्रीय नृत्य, आंध्र प्रदेश का नृत्य आदि को राज्यवार सारणीबद्ध किया है। 

 

भारत में शास्त्रीय नृत्य रूपों की सूची  

भारत में शास्त्रीय नृत्यों की सूची


भारत के राज्यवार नृत्य रूप - उत्पत्ति का राज्य 

भरतनाट्यम


तमिलनाडु

कथक


उत्तर प्रदेश

कुचिपुड़ी


आंध्र प्रदेश

ओडिसी


ओडिशा

कथकली


केरल

सत्त्रिया नृत्य


असम

गरबा


गुजरात

मणिपुरी नृत्य या जागोई


मणिपुर

मोहिनीअट्टम


केरल


छाऊ


झारखंड, ओडिशा, और पश्चिम बंगाल

 

भारत में शीर्ष 10 नृत्य: 

भारत के विभिन्न राज्यों में विभिन्न प्रकार के नृत्य पाए जाते हैं। उनमें से कुछ को जन्म से ही बहुत पुराना माना जाता है। यहां हमने आपके संदर्भ के लिए भारत के शीर्ष 10 नृत्यों की सूची सारणीबद्ध की है। 

 

भारत में शीर्ष 10 नृत्य

भारत के नृत्यों की सूची

राज्य

भरतनाट्यम

तमिलनाडु

कथक

उत्तर प्रदेश

कथकली

केरल

मणिपुरी

मणिपुर

कुचिपुड़ी

आंध्र प्रदेश

ओडिसी

ओडिशा

भांगड़ा/गिद्दा

पंजाब

गरबा

गुजरात

रौफ़

कश्मीर

घूमर

राजस्थान 



भारत में लोक नृत्य रूपों की सूची:

भारत में लोक नृत्य उस समुदाय की संस्कृति और परंपरा का प्रतिनिधित्व करते हैं जहां से इसकी उत्पत्ति हुई है। लोक नृत्य आमतौर पर संबंधित समुदाय के दौरान किए जाते हैं

उत्सव- प्रसव, त्यौहार, शादियाँ आदि। भारत में विभिन्न प्रकार के लोक नृत्य हैं। यहां हम भारतीय राज्यों में लोक नृत्य रूपों की एक सूची प्रदान कर रहे हैं। 

 

राज्यों के साथ भारत के नृत्य रूप - भारत में लोक नृत्य रूप

लोक नृत्य भी भारत के महत्वपूर्ण नृत्य रूपों में से एक है। यहां हमने आपके संदर्भ के लिए भारत में राज्यवार लोक नृत्यों की सूची जैसे आंध्र प्रदेश के नृत्य, सिक्किमी नृत्य, बिहार के लोक नृत्य, महाराष्ट्र के लोक नृत्य आदि को सारणीबद्ध किया है। 

 


भारत में लोक नृत्य रूपों की सूची - भारत के विभिन्न नृत्य रूप  


भारत के राज्यवार नृत्य रूप - उत्पत्ति का राज्य 


भारत में लोक नृत्यों की सूची  

आंध्र प्रदेश का नृत्य


  • बुर्राकथा
  • वीरनाट्यम
  • बुट्टाबोमालु
  • तप्पेटागुल्लू
  • धीम्सा
  • कोल्लट्टम
  • विलासिनी नाट्यम

अंडमान और निकोबार द्वीप समूह


  • निकोबारी

अरुणाचल प्रदेश


  • अजीलामु
  • रोप्पी
  • शेर और मोर नृत्य
  • चलो
  • पोपिर
  • बार्डोछम
  • पोनुंग

असम


  • बिहु
  • बागुरुम्बा
  • अली ऐ लिगांग
  • ओजापाली
  • बोहुवा
  • भोरताल
  • झुमुर

बिहार का लोक नृत्य 


  • कजरी नृत्य
  • जुमारी
  • बिदेसिया
  • जाट- जितिन
  • झिझिया
  • फगुआ
  • डोमकाच
  • सोहर खिलौना

छत्तीसगढ़


  • पंडवानी
  • राउतनाचा
  • गेंडी नृत्य
  • पंथी
  • कर्मा
  • सुआनाचा
  • सैला नृत्य

गुजरात


  • गरबा
  • डांडिया रास
  • टिप्पाणी जुरिअन
  • भवाई

गोवा


  • तलगाडी
  • मंडो
  • सुवारी
  • दशरावदान
  • कुनबिदंस
  • फुगादी
  • धलो
  • घोडेमोदनी

हरियाणा 


  • गुगा नृत्य
  • खोरिया नृत्य
  • रासलीला
  • धमाल
  • फाग
  • लोर
  • डैफ़ नृत्य

हिमाचल प्रदेश


  • कुल्लूनाटी
  • नाम्जेन
  • छम नृत्य
  • थोडा
  • दन्द्रस
  • घुरेगी
  • झोरा
  • डांगी

जम्मू और कश्मीर


  • दुम्हाल
  • कुद नृत्य
  • भंडजशन
  • भांडपाथर
  • बच्चा नगमा
  • हफीजा
  • वुएगी- नच्चुन
  • हिकत
  • रऊफ

झारखंड


  • छाऊ नृत्य
  • झुमैर
  • फगुआ
  • कर्मा

कर्नाटक


  • यक्षगान
  • हुत्तारी
  • सुग्गी
  • कुनिथा
  • करगा

केरल


  • कैकोट्टिकली
  • थुम्बिथुल्लाल
  • ओट्टमथुलाल
  • कूडियाट्टम्
  • चाक्यारकूथु
  • थेय्यम
  • कोलकली
  • थिर्वाथिराकालि
  • थेय्यम

लक्षद्वीप


  • लावा नृत्य
  • उलक्कमुत्तु नृत्य
  • कोलकली नृत्य

लोक नृत्य में महाराष्ट्र


  • पावरीनच
  • लावणी
  • धनगरीगाफा
  • डिंडी और कला
  • तमाशा

मध्य प्रदेश


  • मटकी
  • गणगौर
  • बधाई
  • बरेदी
  • नौराता
  • अहिराई
  • भगोरिया
  • कर्मा नृत्य
  • गौर मारिया नृत्य
  • काकसार नृत्य

मणिपुर


  • खम्बाथोइबी नृत्य
  • पुंगचोलोम
  • थांग टा
  • ढोलचोलोम
  • लाइ हरोबा

मेघालय


  • नोंग्क्रेम
 
  • का शाद सुक माइन्सिएम

मिजोरम


  • ख़ुअल्लम
  • चेराव( बांस नृत्य)
  • सरलामकै/ सोलकाई

नगालैंड


  • चांगलो- सुआ- लुआ

ओडिशा


  • घुमुरा नृत्य
  • रुक मार्च नचा
  • गोटीपुआ
  • छोऊ
  • चैतीघोडा
  • दण्डनाता
  • चंगू

पांडिचेरी


  • गैरेज नृत्य

पंजाब


  • भांगड़ा
  • गिद्दा
  • झूमर
  • लुड्डी
  • शंकरा 

राजस्थान 


  • घूमर
  • कालबेलिया
  • भवाई
  • सपेरा नृत्य,
  • कुच्चीघोडी
  • कठपुतली
  • भोपा
  • चांग
  • तेराहतालि
  • गेर नृत्य
  • तेजाजी

सिक्किम नृत्य


  • सिंघीछाम
  • खुकुरीनाच
  • चुफात
  • याक छम
  • ताशीयांगकू
  • मारुनी

तामिल तमिलनाडु


  • मायिलअट्टम
  • बोम्मालट्टम
  • कुम्मी
  • काई सिलंबट्टम
  • करगट्टम
  • कोलअट्टम
  • कवाडी

त्रिपुरा


  • गरिया नृत्य
  • होज़ागिरी नृत्य
  • बिज़ू
  • लेबांगबूमानी
  • हैहक
  • झूम
  • संगरिया - मॉग

उत्तर प्रदेश


  • छोलिया
  • रासलीला
  • ख्याल
  • नौटंकी
  • रामलीला
  • नक़ल
  • स्वंगा
  • चरकुला नृत्य

उत्तराखंड


  • बारादा नाती
  • भोटिया
  • चांचेरी
  • छोपती
  • चोलिया नृत्य
  • लैंगवीर नृत्य

पश्चिम बंगाल


  • गम्भीरा
  • कलिकापाटडी
  • डोमनी
  • काठी

List of Dance Forms in India PDF 2026 in Hindi

Indian Dance Forms - A Summary

Indian dance forms reflect India’s ancient cultural heritage, blending devotion, storytelling, rhythm, and regional traditions. They are broadly classified into classical and folk dances, both rooted in texts like the Natya Shastra. Classical dances follow codified techniques and evolved from temple traditions, while folk dances are community-based and celebratory. These forms preserve regional music, costumes, and values and enjoy global recognition. For competitive exams such as UPSC, SSC, and Banking, knowledge of dance forms is vital, especially their origins, features, state associations, and the distinction between classical and folk traditions.

 

FAQs

Q: How many classical dance forms are there in India?

There are 8 classical dances recognised by the Sangeet Natak Akademi: Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kathakali, Kuchipudi, Manipuri, Mohiniyattam, Odissi, and Sattriya.

Q: Which is the oldest dance form in India?

Bharatanatyam, which originated in Tamil Nadu, is regarded as the oldest classical dance form of India, with a history spanning more than 2,000 years.

Q. What is the difference between classical and folk dances?

Classical dances follow structured grammar, formal training, and religious themes, while folk dances are community-based, performed during festivals, and regionally diverse.

Q: Which organization recognizes classical dance forms?

 
The Sangeet Natak Akademi, functioning under the Ministry of Culture, serves as India’s national body for music, dance, and drama and is responsible for the official recognition and promotion of classical dance forms.

Q: Are dance forms important for competitive exams?

Yes, Indian dance forms, both classical and folk, are extremely important topics for competitive examinations in India.

Q: What is the national dance of India?

India does not officially have a national dance, but Bharatanatyam is often regarded as one of the most iconic classical dance forms.

Q. What government schemes promote Indian dance forms?

Schemes like Ek Bharat Shreshtha Bharat, Kala Sanskriti Vikas Yojana, and Sangeet Natak Akademi’s grant programs.

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