KUCHIPUDI

Kuchipudi

A vibrant classical style of Indian dance from the Telugu region, originating in the village of Kuchipudi in Andhra Pradesh.

Sri Siddhendra Yogi

The legendary Vaishnava poet credited with establishing the Kuchipudi dance drama tradition.

Bhama Kalapam

A key composition in Kuchipudi repertoire, created by Sri Siddhendra Yogi.

Nawab of Golconda

Abul Hasan Tanishah, who granted land for Kuchipudi art form in 1675 A.D.

Sri Vedantam Lakshminarayana Shastry

Introduced the solo dance format in Kuchipudi and trained female dancers.

Sutraadhar

The chief conductor in Kuchipudi performances, also known as Nattuvanar.

Tarangam

An important item in Kuchipudi where the dancer performs on the edges of a brass plate while balancing a pot of water.

Carnatic music

The classical music form that serves as the foundation for Kuchipudi dance.

Ganesha Vandana

An invocatory item performed at the start of a Kuchipudi recital.

Ardhamandali

The basic stance used in Kuchipudi dance.

Thyagaraja Kritis

Devotional songs of Thyagaraja included in Kuchipudi repertoire.

Annamacharya Keertanas

Devotional pieces by Annamacharya featured in Kuchipudi performances.

Mridangist

The musician who plays the mridangam in Kuchipudi music ensembles.

Violinist

A musician who plays the violin during Kuchipudi performances.

Veena player

A musician who plays the veena in Kuchipudi music ensembles.

Flutist

A musician who plays the flute during Kuchipudi performances.

Jhimikilu

Ear ornaments worn by Kuchipudi dancers.

Maatilu

Additional ear ornaments worn by Kuchipudi dancers.

Haaram

Necklace worn by female Kuchipudi dancers.

Voddiyanam

A waist ornament worn by Kuchipudi dancers.

Abhinaya Darpana

A foundational text followed in Kuchipudi dance that details expressive gestures.

Natya Shastra

An ancient treatise on performing arts, including dance.

Nritta Ratnavali

A text that outlines dance techniques and practices relevant to Kuchipudi.

Gajjalu

Bells worn on the feet by Kuchipudi dancers, enhancing rhythmic footwork.

Bhaama Kalapam

Regarded as the centerpiece of Kuchipudi repertoire, showcasing expressive storytelling.

Kalaapam

A performance piece in Kuchipudi, often highlighted by Bhama Kalapam.

Shlokam

A form of devotional verse incorporated into Kuchipudi performances.

Thillana

A rhythmic dance piece included in Kuchipudi repertoire.

Ashtapadi

A lyrical poem recited or danced to in Kuchipudi.

Jaavali

A light classical piece often performed in Kuchipudi.

Shabdam

A dance item in Kuchipudi that usually expresses emotions.

Jathiswaram

A rhythmic dance piece performed in Kuchipudi.

Costume

Traditional attire for Kuchipudi, including sari, elaborate hair-do, and jewelry.

Make-up

Cosmetic enhancements to highlight facial features for Kuchipudi performances.

Kuchipudi Art Academy

An institution founded by Sri Vempati Chinna Satyam to promote Kuchipudi.

Gochi

Traditional way of wrapping or stitching sari worn in Kuchipudi.

Raagadi

The decorated plait worn by Kuchipudi dancers as part of their hair-do.

Surya-Chandra

Head ornaments featuring sun and moon symbols worn by Kuchipudi dancers.

Cymbals

Musical instruments played by the Sutraadhar during Kuchipudi performances.

Sollukattus

Mnemonic syllables used in Kuchipudi music, recited by the Sutraadhar.

Recital

A performance showcasing Kuchipudi dance.

Dance-drama

A form of performance that combines dance and storytelling, significant in Kuchipudi.

Yakshagaana

A traditional dance-drama that precedes Kuchipudi, significant in the Telugu region.

Tradition

The long-standing practices and customs that form the basis of Kuchipudi dance.