India's Classical Dances: A Journey Through History, Spirituality, and Storytelling

• India boasts eight classical dance forms, each a living embodiment of history, spirituality, and storytelling, rooted in the ancient Sanskrit text Natya Shastra.
• Bharatanatyam (Tamil Nadu) is known for precise footwork and intricate hand gestures, often depicting Hindu epics.
• Kathak (Uttar Pradesh) evolved from wandering storytellers, blending Hindu temple traditions with Mughal court aesthetics.
• Kathakali (Kerala) is a vibrant dance-drama with elaborate costumes and painted faces, portraying epic stories.
• Odissi (Odisha) features fluid movements and sculpturesque poses, traditionally performed as worship to Lord Jagannath.

Why It Matters: India's eight classical dance forms are diverse, rich cultural expressions rooted in ancient traditions and storytelling.