Mohiniattam Classical Indian Dance

Origin of Mohiniattam

The state of Kerala in southwest India.

Traditional dancers of Mohiniattam

Female dancers only.

English translation of "Mohiniattam"

"The Dance of the Enchantress".

Mythological origin of Mohiniattam

Lord Vishnu's female avatar, Mohini.

Demon defeated by Mohini

Bashmasura, who was tricked into placing his hand on his own head.

Main aesthetic features of Mohiniattam

Emphasis on Lasya and Shringar Ras with delicate, fluid movements.

Basic stance of Mohiniattam

A half-sitting position with feet and knees pointed outwards.

Movement style of Mohiniattam

Circular movements, torso sways, and a complete absence of sharp or vigorous footwork.

Exponents of Mohiniattam

Kanak Rele, Kshemavati, and Bharati Shivaji.

Cholkettu

First repertoire item; binds rhythmic syllables, invoking Bhagwati and praising Shiva.

Jatiswaram

A pure dance (nritta) sequence of simple Adavus performed to rhythmic Bols.

Varnam

An expressional and abstract dance piece centered on divine love.

Padam

An expressional love poem (Nritya) focusing on Rati Bhava and Shringar Ras.

Tillana

A pure dance piece featuring rhythmic footwork, sculpted poses, and specific taals.

Traditional costume colors of Mohiniattam

Ivory with gold and red brocade borders.

Traditional hairstyle for Mohiniattam

A hair bun tied on the left side, encircled with Jasmine flowers.

Ghungaroo in Mohiniattam

Ankle belts consisting of 30 to 40 bells tied around each ankle.

Music style of Mohiniattam

South Indian Karnatic Music.

Key instrument in Mohiniattam

The Iddaka (Edakka).

Other instruments

Veena, Mridangam and Manjira are used by accompanying artists

Vocal style of Mohiniattam music

Sopana Sangeetham, a traditional temple singing style of Kerala.

Primary text for hand gestures (Mudras)

Hastha Lakshana Deepika.

Role of Maharaja Swati Tirunal

Patronized and structured the dance form, composing many Mohiniattam padams.

Institution that revived Mohiniattam

Kerala Kalamandalam, founded by poet Vallathol Narayana Menon.

Kalyani Amma

A pioneering teacher who helped revive and teach Mohiniattam at Kerala Kalamandalam.

Boon granted to Demon Bashmasura

Immortality, with death occurring only if a hand was placed on his head.

Who called upon Mohini to defeat Bashmasura

The Sur (the heavenly Lords and Beings).

How Mohini brought about Bashmasura's end

She enchanted and hypnotized him into placing his hand on his own head.