{"id":2658,"date":"2026-05-18T11:26:03","date_gmt":"2026-05-18T11:26:03","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/?p=2658"},"modified":"2026-05-18T11:26:04","modified_gmt":"2026-05-18T11:26:04","slug":"classical-dances-of-india","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/","title":{"rendered":"Classical Dances of India: Complete List, States, and Key Facts"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What are the classical dances of India?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>There are eight classical dances in India. These are Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, Odissi, Kuchipudi, Manipuri, and Sattriya. The classical dances of India carry centuries of tradition, spirituality, and artistic excellence. Each dance form belongs to a specific region of India. The Sangeet Natak Akademi officially recognizes these eight dance forms. Questions on classical dances of India appear regularly in UPSC Prelims, APSC, and other State PCS exams. Therefore, every aspiring civil servant must know this topic well.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How Many Types of Classical Dance in India Are There?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Many students ask how many types of classical dance in India exist? The answer is eight. India currently has eight officially recognized classical dance forms. The <a href=\"https:\/\/www.sangeetnatak.gov.in\/\">Sangeet Natak Akademi<\/a>, India&#8217;s national academy for performing arts, recognizes and promotes these dance forms. Each of these classical dances of India follows codified techniques. They all draw inspiration from the ancient text <strong>Natyashastra<\/strong>, written by <strong>Bharata Muni<\/strong>. These dance forms also follow the <strong>Abhinaya Darpana<\/strong>, another key classical treatise.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Furthermore, every classical dance form has <strong>three essential elements<\/strong>. These are <strong>Nritta (pure rhythmic movement)<\/strong>, <strong>Nritya (expressive dance with emotion)<\/strong>, and <strong>Natya (dramatic storytelling)<\/strong>. Together, these three elements make classical dances of India unique and deeply meaningful.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img fetchpriority=\"high\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1021\" height=\"681\" src=\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/image-32.jpeg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-2659\" srcset=\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/image-32.jpeg 1021w, https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/image-32-300x200.jpeg 300w, https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/image-32-768x512.jpeg 768w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1021px) 100vw, 1021px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>List of Classical Dances of India with States<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The following is the complete list of classical dances of India with their associated states. This list is frequently asked in UPSC Prelims, APSC, and other competitive exams.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><td><strong>Classical Dance Form<\/strong><\/td><td><strong>State<\/strong><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Bharatanatyam<\/td><td>Tamil Nadu<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Kathak<\/td><td>Uttar Pradesh<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Kathakali<\/td><td>Kerala<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Mohiniyattam<\/td><td>Kerala<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Odissi<\/td><td>Odisha<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Kuchipudi<\/td><td>Andhra Pradesh<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Manipuri<\/td><td>Manipur<\/td><\/tr><tr><td>Sattriya<\/td><td>Assam<\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p>Note: Two classical dances of India &#8211; Kathakali and Mohiniyattam &#8211; both come from Kerala.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Eight Classical Dances of India: Key Features and Origin<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Let us now study the eight classical dances of India in detail. Each dance form has its own history, style, and cultural importance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>1. Bharatanatyam (Tamil Nadu)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Bharatanatyam is one of the oldest classical dances of India. It originates from the temple traditions of Tamil Nadu. This dance follows the <strong>Natyashastra<\/strong> and the <strong>Abhinaya Darpana<\/strong> of <strong>Nandikesvara<\/strong>. Bharatanatyam is known as the <strong>Ekaharya style<\/strong>. This means a single dancer plays multiple characters in one performance. Key features include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Firstly, strong <strong>geometric precision<\/strong> and <strong>rhythmic footwork (adavus).<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Secondly, expressive eye movements are called <strong>drishti bheda.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Thirdly, codified hand gestures are known as <strong>hasta mudras.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In addition, this dance form aims to express all <strong>nine rasas<\/strong>, especially <strong>Shringara <\/strong>and <strong>Bhakti.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Traditional performance order: Alarippu, Jatiswaram, Shabdam, Varnam, Padam, Tillana<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Moreover, it is accompanied by <strong>Carnatic music<\/strong> with <strong>mridangam, violin<\/strong>, and <strong>flute.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In the modern period, <strong>E. Krishna Iyer<\/strong> and <strong>Rukmini Devi Arundale<\/strong> revived this dance form.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Some of the notable exponents of Bharatnatyam dance form are <strong>Balasaraswati<\/strong>, <strong>Yamini Krishnamurthy<\/strong>, <strong>Padma Subrahmanyam etc.<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>2. Kathak (Uttar Pradesh)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Kathak is a major classical dance of India from Uttar Pradesh. The word Kathak comes from \u2018<strong>Katha\u2019<\/strong>, which means story. Storytellers originally performed <strong>Kathak in temples<\/strong>. During the <strong>Bhakti movement<\/strong>, it grew into a full classical form. Later, Mughal court patronage added refinement to its technique. Key points:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Kathak is famous for <strong>intricate footwork (tatkar)<\/strong> and <strong>rapid spins (chakkars).<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>While performing Kathak, dancers wear <strong>heavy ankle bells<\/strong> called <strong>ghungroos.<\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>This dance form has strong links to <strong>Hindustani classical music<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Some of the notable themes include <strong>stories of Radha and Krishna<\/strong> from Rasa Lila.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>This dance form reached its peak under <strong>Wajid Ali Shah<\/strong>, the last Nawab of Awadh.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Some of the notable exponents of Kathak dance form are <strong>Birju Maharaj<\/strong>, <strong>Sitara Devi,<\/strong> and <strong>Shambhu Maharaj<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>3. Kathakali (Kerala)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Kathakali is one of the most visually striking classical dances of India. It developed in <strong>Kerala<\/strong> from <strong>ritual theatre<\/strong> forms like <strong>Krishnattam<\/strong> and <strong>Ramanattam<\/strong>. It is a <strong>dance-drama<\/strong> that combines <strong>dance<\/strong>, <strong>music<\/strong>, <strong>acting<\/strong>, and <strong>visual design<\/strong>. Important facts:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>The themes of Kathakali are drawn from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Puranas.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Notably, <strong>elaborate facial makeup<\/strong> with colour symbolism: <strong>green for virtue<\/strong>, <strong>red for aggression<\/strong>, <strong>black for evil etc<\/strong>.<strong> <\/strong>is an integral feature of this dance form.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In Kathakali, dancers use <strong>heavy costumes<\/strong>, <strong>massive skirts<\/strong>, and <strong>ornate headgear<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Moreover, it involves communication through <strong>codified hand gestures<\/strong> and <strong>intense eye movements<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In addition, the musical instruments which are used in the performance of this dance are <strong>chenda<\/strong>, <strong>maddalam<\/strong>, and <strong>cymbals<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Notable exponents of Kathakali dance form are <strong>Ramankutty Nair<\/strong> and <strong>Kalamandalam Gopi<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>4. Mohiniyattam (Kerala)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Mohiniyattam is a graceful classical dance of India from <strong>Kerala<\/strong>. Its name comes from Mohini, the enchanting <strong>female form of Lord Vishnu<\/strong>. It is a solo dance form with a predominantly <strong>Lasya<\/strong> <strong>(graceful) style<\/strong>. Key features:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Mohiniyattam uses<strong> gentle and circular body movements.<\/strong> Dancers perform it with soft footwork and graceful rhythm.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Moreover, dancers express emotions through<strong> subtle facial expressions.<\/strong> They also use lyrical body language to create a smooth performance.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The traditional costume of Mohiniyattam is a<strong> white and gold Kasavu saree.<\/strong> This costume reflects Kerala\u2019s cultural identity.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In addition, Mohiniyattam uses<strong> lyrics written in Manipravala.<\/strong> Manipravala is a blend of Tamil, Malayalam, and Sanskrit.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Maharaja Swati Tirunal gave<strong> royal support to Mohiniyattam.<\/strong> His patronage helped the dance form grow and gain recognition.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Kalamandalam Kalyanikutty Amma <\/strong>and<strong> Pallavi Krishnan <\/strong>are notable exponents of<strong> <\/strong>Mohiniyattam. They played an important role in promoting this classical dance form.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>5. Odissi (Odisha)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Odissi is one of the most <strong>ancient classical dances<\/strong> of India. It comes from <strong>Odisha<\/strong> and focuses on <strong>Vaishnavism<\/strong>, especially stories of <strong>Lord Krishna<\/strong>. People also call it a mobile sculpture because of its beautiful sculptural poses.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Key facts and features of Odissi dance form:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Odissi <\/strong>is known for its<strong> graceful Tribhanga posture <\/strong>and <strong>strong Chowk stance.<\/strong> These poses give the dance its sculptural beauty.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Moreover, dancers use<strong> fluid torso movements <\/strong>and<strong> a lyrical style.<\/strong> This makes Odissi soft, expressive, and elegant.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Odissi draws<strong> major inspiration<\/strong> from<strong> Jayadeva\u2019s <\/strong><strong><em>Gita Govinda<\/em><\/strong><strong>.<\/strong> Therefore, many performances focus on devotion, love, and stories of Lord Krishna.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In addition,<strong> Odissi <\/strong>uses <strong>Odissi classical music <\/strong>as its main accompaniment. The music supports the rhythm, mood, and expression of the dance.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Odissi shares some<strong> mudras with Bharatanatyam.<\/strong> However, it maintains a distinct regional style from Odisha.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Kelucharan Mohapatra, Sanjukta Panigrahi<\/strong>, and<strong> Sonal Mansingh <\/strong>are notable performers of Odissi. They helped popularise this classical dance form nationally and internationally.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>6. Kuchipudi (Andhra Pradesh)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Kuchipudi is a vibrant classical dance of India from Andhra Pradesh. It originated in the Kuchipudi village of the Krishna district. Earlier, people called it Yakshagaana. In the 17th century, Siddhendra Yogi gave it a systematic devotional form.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Key features of Kuchipudi dance form:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Kuchipudi combines<strong> group dance-dramas <\/strong>with <strong>solo performances<\/strong>. This makes the dance form both dramatic and expressive.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Moreover,<strong> <\/strong>dancers perform Kuchipudi with<strong> brisk movements<\/strong> and<strong> strong abhinaya<\/strong>. They use facial expressions and gestures to present emotions clearly.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Kuchipudi dancers wear<strong> colourful <\/strong>and<strong> light costumes.<\/strong> These costumes help them perform fast footwork with ease.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In addition,<strong> Kuchipudi <\/strong>includes<strong> unique solo items like Manduka Shabdam <\/strong>and<strong> Tala Chitra Nritya<\/strong>. These items show the technical skill of the dancer.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Kuchipudi <\/strong>follows the<strong> Carnatic music tradition<\/strong>. The music supports the rhythm, expression, and devotional mood of the performance.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Yamini Krishnamurthy, Raja Reddy<\/strong>, and<strong> Radha Reddy <\/strong>are notable dancers of Kuchipudi. They helped popularise this classical dance form in India and abroad.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>7. Manipuri (Manipur)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Manipuri is an ancient classical dance of India from the state of Manipur. It connects deeply with rituals, festivals, and mythology. Its oldest form is <strong>Lai Haraoba<\/strong>, which represents the creation of the universe through dance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Key facts of Manipuri dance form:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>King Bhagyachandra <\/strong>organised <strong>Ras Leela <\/strong>in the<strong> 18th century.<\/strong> This gave Manipuri dance a strong devotional and cultural foundation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Moreover,<strong> Manipuri dance <\/strong>includes major forms like<strong> Ras, Sankirtana,<\/strong> and<strong> Thang-Ta.<\/strong> Each form reflects the spiritual and martial traditions of Manipur.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Dancers do not wear ankle bells in Manipuri dance<\/strong>. This helps them maintain softness, grace, and fluidity in movement.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In addition,<strong> male dancers <\/strong>play the<strong> Pung <\/strong>and <strong>Kartal while performing<\/strong>. The Pung is a drum, while the Kartal is a pair of cymbals.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sankirtana combines dance with devotional group singing<\/strong>. It plays an important role in Manipur\u2019s Vaishnavite tradition.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Manipuri dance movements are<strong> soft, graceful, <\/strong>and<strong> circular<\/strong>. Therefore, the dance form creates a calm and spiritual visual appeal.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>8. Sattriya (Assam)<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p>Sattriya is the youngest among the classical dances of India. It comes from Assam and belongs to the Vaishnava tradition. The great saint Srimanta Sankaradeva introduced it in the 15th century. It evolved inside Sattras, which are Vaishnava monasteries. This gives the dance its name.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Key features of Sattriya Dance:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Sattriya <\/strong>was used to spread<strong> Neo-Vaishnavism through dance<\/strong> and<strong> drama<\/strong>. <strong>Srimanta Sankaradeva<\/strong> developed it as a devotional art form in Assam in 15<sup>th<\/sup>-16<sup>th<\/sup> century.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Moreover,<strong> Sattriya <\/strong>has <strong>two major streams<\/strong>. These include <strong>Bhaona-based dance-dramas<\/strong> and <strong>independent dance numbers<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>The Chali style <\/strong>focuses on<strong> grace <\/strong>and<strong> lyrical beauty.<\/strong> It presents soft, elegant, and expressive movements.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In contrast,<strong> the Jhumura style highlights vigour and majesty<\/strong>. It uses stronger movements and a more powerful performance style.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Sattriya strictly follows codified principles of mudras, footwork, rhythm, and music.<\/strong> These rules give the dance its classical structure.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>In the modern period, Sattriya gained recognition as a classical dance form of India.<\/strong> Today, it represents Assam\u2019s Vaishnavite culture and artistic heritage.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Criteria for Recognition of Classical Dance Forms in India<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The Sangeet Natak Akademi uses specific criteria to recognise a dance form as classical. These criteria help separate classical dances from folk, regional, and contemporary dance forms.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>A classical dance form must have a strong<strong> textual foundation.<\/strong> It should draw from Bharata Muni\u2019s <em>Natyashastra<\/em> or other classical treatises.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Moreover, it must follow the<strong> threefold structure of Indian classical dance.<\/strong> This includes <em>Nritta<\/em> or pure dance, <em>Nritya<\/em> or expressive dance, and <em>Natya<\/em> or dramatic storytelling.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It must use the<strong> Rasa-Bhava framework.<\/strong> Dancers should express emotions in a controlled way to create specific aesthetic experiences.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In addition, the dance form must<strong> balance Lasya and Tandava.<\/strong> Lasya represents grace, while Tandava represents energy and vigour.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>A recognised classical dance must follow<strong> codified techniques.<\/strong> It should have fixed rules for postures, footwork, gestures, and body movements.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Furthermore, it must use a<strong> structured Abhinaya system.<\/strong> This includes facial expressions, eye movements, body language, and hand gestures or mudras.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The dance form should follow the<strong> Guru-Shishya Parampara.<\/strong> Teachers must pass knowledge to students through a traditional learning system.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It must also have<strong> spiritual or thematic depth.<\/strong> Most classical dances draw themes from mythology, epics, devotion, or philosophy.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Moreover, the dance form must show a<strong> distinct regional identity.<\/strong> Its music, costume, makeup, instruments, and performance style should reflect a specific region.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Finally, it must show<strong> historical continuity.<\/strong> A classical dance form should have a long tradition of practice, preservation, and evolution over time.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Therefore, classical dances of India combine textual tradition, codified technique, spiritual depth, regional identity, and historical continuity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Key Elements of Classical Dances of India<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Classical dances of India follow the<strong> Natyashastra-based framework.<\/strong> They use the ancient principles of <strong>Bharata Muni\u2019s <\/strong><strong><em>Natyashastra<\/em><\/strong> for <strong>technique<\/strong>, <strong>movement<\/strong>, <strong>expression<\/strong>, and <strong>aesthetics<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Moreover, classical dances use<strong> Abhinaya, or modes of expression.<\/strong> Dancers express meaning through <strong><em>Angika<\/em><\/strong> or <strong>body movement<\/strong>, <strong><em>Vachika<\/em><\/strong> or <strong>music <\/strong>and <strong>recitation<\/strong>, <strong><em>Aharya<\/em><\/strong><strong> <\/strong>or <strong>costume<\/strong> and <strong>makeup<\/strong>, and <strong><em>Sattvika<\/em><\/strong> or inner emotion.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>The Rasa-Bhava theory <\/strong>plays a central role in classical dance. Dancers express <em>bhavas<\/em> or emotions to create <em>rasas<\/em> or aesthetic feelings in the audience.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In addition,<strong> rhythm <\/strong>and <strong>music guide every performance<\/strong>. Dancers coordinate their movements with <em>tala<\/em> or rhythm and <em>raga<\/em> or melody of Indian classical music.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Classical dances also follow the<strong> Guru-Shishya Parampara<\/strong>. Teachers pass knowledge, technique, discipline, and tradition directly to students.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Furthermore, every classical dance<strong> balances Lasya and Tandava.<\/strong> Lasya shows grace and softness, while Tandava shows energy, strength, and power.\u00a0<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Therefore, the classical dances of India share common features like Natyashastra principles, Abhinaya, Rasa-Bhava theory, rhythm, music, Guru-Shishya tradition, and Lasya-Tandava balance. These elements make the topic important for UPSC, APSC, and State PCS exams.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Role of Sangeet Natak Akademi in Promoting Classical Dances of India<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Sangeet Natak Akademi plays a<strong> major role in preserving <\/strong>and<strong> promoting the classical dances of India.<\/strong> It works under the Ministry of Culture, Government of India.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The Government of India established<strong> Sangeet Natak Akademi in 1952.<\/strong> Since then, it has supported India\u2019s traditional performing arts, including classical dance, music, and theatre.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Moreover, the<strong> Akademi recognises and preserves classical dance forms.<\/strong> It helps protect their traditional techniques, performance styles, and cultural identity.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It also conducts<strong> workshops, masterclasses, and training programmes.<\/strong> These activities support the <strong>Guru-Shishya Parampara<\/strong> and help young dancers learn from experienced artists.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Furthermore,<strong> <\/strong>Sangeet Natak Akademi provides<strong> scholarships, grants, and fellowships.<\/strong> These benefits support dancers, researchers, gurus, and dance institutions.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The Akademi organises<strong> national and international festivals.<\/strong> Through these events, it promotes Indian classical dances on larger platforms.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>In addition, it archives<strong> performances and publishes research material.<\/strong> This helps preserve classical dance knowledge for future generations.\u00a0<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It also honours<strong> outstanding artists through awards and fellowships<\/strong>. These recognitions encourage excellence in Indian classical dance traditions.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Therefore, Sangeet Natak Akademi strengthens the classical dances of India through recognition, preservation, training, research, and promotion. This topic is important for UPSC, APSC, and State PCS exams under Indian art and culture.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Conclusion:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>In conclusion, the classical dances of India reflect India\u2019s rich cultural heritage, spirituality, and regional diversity. India has eight classical dance forms: Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, Odissi, Kuchipudi, Manipuri, and Sattriya. Moreover, these dance forms follow the Natyashastra, Abhinaya, Rasa-Bhava theory, and Guru-Shishya Parampara. The Sangeet Natak Akademi also plays a key role in preserving and promoting Indian classical dances. Therefore, UPSC, APSC, and State PCS aspirants must study the list of classical dances of India with states, their origin, key features, and important facts for Indian art and culture preparation.&nbsp;<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Source:<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/amritkaal.nic.in\/blogdetail?106\">Ministry of Culture<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Also read :<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-table\"><table class=\"has-fixed-layout\"><tbody><tr><th>Blog Links<\/th><th>Blog Links<\/th><\/tr><tr><td>1.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/national-anti-terrorism-day\/\">National Anti-Terrorism Day<\/a><\/td><td>11.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/g20-explained-members-objectives-summits-indias-role\/\">G20 Explained<\/a><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>2.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/national-endangered-species-day-2026\/\">National Endangered Species Day 2026<\/a><\/td><td>12.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/pm-modi-at-g20-key-initiatives\/\">PM Modi at G20: Key Initiatives<\/a><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>3.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/sarojini-naidu-the-nightingale-of-india\/\">Sarojini Naidu: The Nightingale of India<\/a><\/td><td>13.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/pahalgam-terror-attack-jnk\/\">Pahalgam Terror Attack J&amp;K<\/a><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>4.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/what-is-gst-gst-rates-slabs-types-structure-and-gst-council\/\">What is GST? GST Rates, Slabs, Types, Structure and GST Council<\/a><\/td><td>14.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/top-10-powerful-countries-by-military-strength\/\">Top 10 Powerful Countries by Military Strength<\/a><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>5.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/line-of-actual-control-lac-india-china-border-dispute\/\">Line of Actual Control: India-China Border Dispute<\/a><\/td><td>15.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/indias-comprehensive-strategy-to-democratize-artificial-intelligence-ai\/\">India\u2019s Strategy to Democratize AI<\/a><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>6.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/different-curves-of-economics-explained\/\">Different Curves of Economics Explained<\/a><\/td><td>16.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/siachen-glacier-indias-highest-battlefield\/\">Siachen Glacier: India\u2019s Highest Battlefield<\/a><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>7.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/world-red-cross-day-2026-date-theme-history-icrc-and-ircs\/\">World Red Cross Day 2026<\/a><\/td><td>17.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/quad-vs-aukus-strategic-differences-2026\/\">QUAD vs AUKUS<\/a><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>8.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/g7-explained-what-is-g7-g7-countries-g7-summit\/\">G7 Explained<\/a><\/td><td>18.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/indias-new-gdp-series-base-year-2022-23\/\">India\u2019s New GDP Series Base Year 2022-23<\/a><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>9.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/world-migration-report-2026-india-uae-and-india-us\/\">World Migration Report 2026<\/a><\/td><td>19.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/indias-manufacturing-growth\/\">India\u2019s Manufacturing Growth<\/a><\/td><\/tr><tr><td>10.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/india-bangladesh-relations-history-key-agreements-challenges-latest-updates\/\">India-Bangladesh Relations<\/a><\/td><td>20.&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/green-india-mission\/\">Green India Mission<\/a><\/td><\/tr><\/tbody><\/table><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"schema-faq wp-block-yoast-faq-block\"><div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1779103320890\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>How many classical dances are there in India?<\/strong><br><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">India has eight classical dance forms recognized by the Sangeet Natak Akademi.<br><\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1779103347870\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>Which is the oldest classical dance of India?<\/strong><br><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Bharatanatyam is widely considered the oldest surviving classical dance of India.<br><\/p> <\/div> <div class=\"schema-faq-section\" id=\"faq-question-1779103365590\"><strong class=\"schema-faq-question\"><strong>Which classical dance comes from Assam?<\/strong><br><\/strong> <p class=\"schema-faq-answer\">Sattriya is the classical dance from Assam. Srimanta Sankaradeva introduced it in the 15th century.<br><\/p> <\/div> <\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>What are the classical dances of India? There are eight classical dances in India. These are Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kathakali, Mohiniyattam, Odissi, Kuchipudi, Manipuri, and Sattriya.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[1],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-2658","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-blog"],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO plugin v27.2 - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Classical Dances of India: List, States &amp; Facts<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Explore the eight classical dances of India, their states, key features, and cultural importance for exams and general knowledge.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Classical Dances of India: List, States &amp; Facts\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Explore the eight classical dances of India, their states, key features, and cultural importance for exams and general knowledge.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"SPM IAS Current Affairs\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-05-18T11:26:03+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-05-18T11:26:04+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/image-32.jpeg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"1021\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"681\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"rimjhim\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:label1\" content=\"Written by\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data1\" content=\"rimjhim\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:label2\" content=\"Est. reading time\" \/>\n\t<meta name=\"twitter:data2\" content=\"11 minutes\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\/\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"rimjhim\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/#\/schema\/person\/ce160913d56f2be1615fbc00c7775dfc\"},\"headline\":\"Classical Dances of India: Complete List, States, and Key Facts\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-05-18T11:26:03+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-05-18T11:26:04+00:00\",\"mainEntityOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/\"},\"wordCount\":2479,\"commentCount\":0,\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/#organization\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/image-32.jpeg\",\"articleSection\":[\"Blog\"],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"CommentAction\",\"name\":\"Comment\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/#respond\"]}]},{\"@type\":[\"WebPage\",\"FAQPage\"],\"@id\":\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/\",\"name\":\"Classical Dances of India: List, States & Facts\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/#website\"},\"primaryImageOfPage\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/#primaryimage\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/#primaryimage\"},\"thumbnailUrl\":\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/image-32.jpeg\",\"datePublished\":\"2026-05-18T11:26:03+00:00\",\"dateModified\":\"2026-05-18T11:26:04+00:00\",\"description\":\"Explore the eight classical dances of India, their states, key features, and cultural importance for exams and general knowledge.\",\"breadcrumb\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/#breadcrumb\"},\"mainEntity\":[{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/#faq-question-1779103320890\"},{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/#faq-question-1779103347870\"},{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/#faq-question-1779103365590\"}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"ReadAction\",\"target\":[\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/\"]}]},{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/#primaryimage\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/image-32.jpeg\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/image-32.jpeg\",\"width\":1021,\"height\":681},{\"@type\":\"BreadcrumbList\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/#breadcrumb\",\"itemListElement\":[{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":1,\"name\":\"Home\",\"item\":\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/\"},{\"@type\":\"ListItem\",\"position\":2,\"name\":\"Classical Dances of India: Complete List, States, and Key Facts\"}]},{\"@type\":\"WebSite\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/#website\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/\",\"name\":\"SPM IAS Current Affairs\",\"description\":\"\",\"publisher\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/#organization\"},\"potentialAction\":[{\"@type\":\"SearchAction\",\"target\":{\"@type\":\"EntryPoint\",\"urlTemplate\":\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/?s={search_term_string}\"},\"query-input\":{\"@type\":\"PropertyValueSpecification\",\"valueRequired\":true,\"valueName\":\"search_term_string\"}}],\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Organization\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/#organization\",\"name\":\"SPM IAS Current Affairs\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/\",\"logo\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/SPM-Logo.webp\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/SPM-Logo.webp\",\"width\":2560,\"height\":569,\"caption\":\"SPM IAS Current Affairs\"},\"image\":{\"@id\":\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/\"}},{\"@type\":\"Person\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/#\/schema\/person\/ce160913d56f2be1615fbc00c7775dfc\",\"name\":\"rimjhim\",\"image\":{\"@type\":\"ImageObject\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/53bd85940a49d9287373f0ab8a9b578ff9feacd95960e48bd9605807433eb755?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"url\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/53bd85940a49d9287373f0ab8a9b578ff9feacd95960e48bd9605807433eb755?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"contentUrl\":\"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/53bd85940a49d9287373f0ab8a9b578ff9feacd95960e48bd9605807433eb755?s=96&d=mm&r=g\",\"caption\":\"rimjhim\"},\"url\":\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/author\/rimjhim\/\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/#faq-question-1779103320890\",\"position\":1,\"url\":\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/#faq-question-1779103320890\",\"name\":\"How many classical dances are there in India?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"India has eight classical dance forms recognized by the Sangeet Natak Akademi.<br>\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/#faq-question-1779103347870\",\"position\":2,\"url\":\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/#faq-question-1779103347870\",\"name\":\"Which is the oldest classical dance of India?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Bharatanatyam is widely considered the oldest surviving classical dance of India.<br>\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},{\"@type\":\"Question\",\"@id\":\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/#faq-question-1779103365590\",\"position\":3,\"url\":\"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/#faq-question-1779103365590\",\"name\":\"Which classical dance comes from Assam?\",\"answerCount\":1,\"acceptedAnswer\":{\"@type\":\"Answer\",\"text\":\"Sattriya is the classical dance from Assam. Srimanta Sankaradeva introduced it in the 15th century.<br>\",\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"},\"inLanguage\":\"en-US\"}]}<\/script>\n<!-- \/ Yoast SEO plugin. -->","yoast_head_json":{"title":"Classical Dances of India: List, States & Facts","description":"Explore the eight classical dances of India, their states, key features, and cultural importance for exams and general knowledge.","robots":{"index":"index","follow":"follow","max-snippet":"max-snippet:-1","max-image-preview":"max-image-preview:large","max-video-preview":"max-video-preview:-1"},"canonical":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/","og_locale":"en_US","og_type":"article","og_title":"Classical Dances of India: List, States & Facts","og_description":"Explore the eight classical dances of India, their states, key features, and cultural importance for exams and general knowledge.","og_url":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/","og_site_name":"SPM IAS Current Affairs","article_published_time":"2026-05-18T11:26:03+00:00","article_modified_time":"2026-05-18T11:26:04+00:00","og_image":[{"width":1021,"height":681,"url":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/image-32.jpeg","type":"image\/jpeg"}],"author":"rimjhim","twitter_card":"summary_large_image","twitter_misc":{"Written by":"rimjhim","Est. reading time":"11 minutes"},"schema":{"@context":"https:\/\/schema.org","@graph":[{"@type":"Article","@id":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/#article","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/"},"author":{"name":"rimjhim","@id":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/#\/schema\/person\/ce160913d56f2be1615fbc00c7775dfc"},"headline":"Classical Dances of India: Complete List, States, and Key Facts","datePublished":"2026-05-18T11:26:03+00:00","dateModified":"2026-05-18T11:26:04+00:00","mainEntityOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/"},"wordCount":2479,"commentCount":0,"publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/#organization"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/image-32.jpeg","articleSection":["Blog"],"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"CommentAction","name":"Comment","target":["https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/#respond"]}]},{"@type":["WebPage","FAQPage"],"@id":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/","url":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/","name":"Classical Dances of India: List, States & Facts","isPartOf":{"@id":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/#website"},"primaryImageOfPage":{"@id":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/#primaryimage"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/#primaryimage"},"thumbnailUrl":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/image-32.jpeg","datePublished":"2026-05-18T11:26:03+00:00","dateModified":"2026-05-18T11:26:04+00:00","description":"Explore the eight classical dances of India, their states, key features, and cultural importance for exams and general knowledge.","breadcrumb":{"@id":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/#breadcrumb"},"mainEntity":[{"@id":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/#faq-question-1779103320890"},{"@id":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/#faq-question-1779103347870"},{"@id":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/#faq-question-1779103365590"}],"inLanguage":"en-US","potentialAction":[{"@type":"ReadAction","target":["https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/"]}]},{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/#primaryimage","url":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/image-32.jpeg","contentUrl":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/05\/image-32.jpeg","width":1021,"height":681},{"@type":"BreadcrumbList","@id":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/#breadcrumb","itemListElement":[{"@type":"ListItem","position":1,"name":"Home","item":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/"},{"@type":"ListItem","position":2,"name":"Classical Dances of India: Complete List, States, and Key Facts"}]},{"@type":"WebSite","@id":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/#website","url":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/","name":"SPM IAS Current Affairs","description":"","publisher":{"@id":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/#organization"},"potentialAction":[{"@type":"SearchAction","target":{"@type":"EntryPoint","urlTemplate":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/?s={search_term_string}"},"query-input":{"@type":"PropertyValueSpecification","valueRequired":true,"valueName":"search_term_string"}}],"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Organization","@id":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/#organization","name":"SPM IAS Current Affairs","url":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/","logo":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/","url":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/SPM-Logo.webp","contentUrl":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/SPM-Logo.webp","width":2560,"height":569,"caption":"SPM IAS Current Affairs"},"image":{"@id":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/#\/schema\/logo\/image\/"}},{"@type":"Person","@id":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/#\/schema\/person\/ce160913d56f2be1615fbc00c7775dfc","name":"rimjhim","image":{"@type":"ImageObject","inLanguage":"en-US","@id":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/53bd85940a49d9287373f0ab8a9b578ff9feacd95960e48bd9605807433eb755?s=96&d=mm&r=g","url":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/53bd85940a49d9287373f0ab8a9b578ff9feacd95960e48bd9605807433eb755?s=96&d=mm&r=g","contentUrl":"https:\/\/secure.gravatar.com\/avatar\/53bd85940a49d9287373f0ab8a9b578ff9feacd95960e48bd9605807433eb755?s=96&d=mm&r=g","caption":"rimjhim"},"url":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/author\/rimjhim\/"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/#faq-question-1779103320890","position":1,"url":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/#faq-question-1779103320890","name":"How many classical dances are there in India?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"India has eight classical dance forms recognized by the Sangeet Natak Akademi.<br>","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/#faq-question-1779103347870","position":2,"url":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/#faq-question-1779103347870","name":"Which is the oldest classical dance of India?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Bharatanatyam is widely considered the oldest surviving classical dance of India.<br>","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"},{"@type":"Question","@id":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/#faq-question-1779103365590","position":3,"url":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/classical-dances-of-india\/#faq-question-1779103365590","name":"Which classical dance comes from Assam?","answerCount":1,"acceptedAnswer":{"@type":"Answer","text":"Sattriya is the classical dance from Assam. Srimanta Sankaradeva introduced it in the 15th century.<br>","inLanguage":"en-US"},"inLanguage":"en-US"}]}},"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2658","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=2658"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2658\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":2661,"href":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/2658\/revisions\/2661"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=2658"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=2658"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/spmiasacademy.com\/currentaffairs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=2658"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}