Mysore Dasara - Mohinyattam

  

Originated in Kerala, Mohiniyattam is one of the eight classical dance forms of India. The dance name derives from 2 words ‘Mohini’ meaning beautiful enchantress and ‘attam’ meaning ‘graceful and enticing body movements’. True to its name, the dance form is indeed an epitome of beauty, grace and elegance.

Given its soft and delicate articulation of body movement and facial expression, Mohiniyattam is more suited for women performers. It belongs to the ‘lasya’ style of dance which symbolizes the graceful femininity and elegance.

One of the main components of this dance form is acting, - enacting the character and portraying the sentiments and emotions through articulated facial expression and hand gestures (mudras). Joy, anger, sorrow, despair, astonishment and other such emotions inherent to the character/ story-line are brought alive by vivid rendition. Even without any spoken words or explanations, a Mohiniyattam performer can portray the entire story-line and development of the play through the dance-acting, - modulating the steps, gestures and expressions smoothly from one emotion to other – thereby engaging the audience to feel connected with the character.

  

The costume used by Mohiniyattam dancers are quite simple and not as elaborate as many other dance forms. White or off-white sari with golden border, synonymous with Kerala is exclusively worn for this dance. Make-up and jewelry are also kept to a minimum. Another highlight of costume, apart from the grand Kerala Kasavu sari, is the hair style. A high chignon is tied on the left side of the head and is adorned with jasmine flowers. A resplendent Mohiniyattam dancer attired in simple yet exquisite costume looks ethereal and her dance-acting creates a magical ambiance of art coming alive.

slideshow ( please click)

Mohinyattm