India is a land of rich and diverse culture, and its dance forms are no exception. There are over 100 different classical and folk dance forms practiced in India, each with its own unique style and history.
Dance forms in India, where folk and classical dance forms come together to tell stories of tradition and heritage. From the energetic beats of Bhangra in Punjab to the graceful movements of Kathakali in Kerala, discover the unique cultural identities woven into each folk dance. Dive into the precision and storytelling of classical dances like Bharatanatyam and Odissi, as they bring ancient tales to life through intricate choreography.
List of Classical Dances in India
The eight classical dance forms of India are:
| Classical Dance Forms | State of Origin |
| Bharatnatyam | Tamil Nadu |
| Kathak | Uttar Pradesh |
| Kuchipudi | Andhra Pradesh |
| Odissi | Odisha |
| Kathakali | Kerala |
| Sattriya | Assam |
| Manipuri | Manipur |
| Mohiniyattam | Kerala |
These dance forms are all based on the ancient Natya Shastra, a treatise on Indian performing arts. They are characterized by their complex choreography, elaborate costumes, and expressive facial expressions.
Difference between Classical and Folk Dance
List of Folk Dances in India
Folk dances in India are typically associated with specific regions or communities. They are often performed during festivals and celebrations, and they reflect the culture and traditions of the people.
Here is a state-wise list of some of the popular folk dances in India:
| State of Origin | Folk Dance Forms |
| Andhra Pradesh | Dappu, Tappeta Gullu, Lambadi |
| Assam | Bihu, Bichhua, Natpuja |
| Bihar | Jhumar, Phagua, Kajri |
| Chhattisgarh | Karma Munda, Agni, Paika |
| Gujarat | Garba, Dandiya Raas, Tippani Juriun |
| Haryana | Jhumar, Phag, Daph |
| Himachal Pradesh | Nati, Dangi, Chholiya |
| Jammu and Kashmir | Rouf, Hikat, Mandjas |
| Jharkhand | Alkap, Karma Munda, Jhumar |
| Karnataka | Yakshagana, Huttari, Suggi |
| Kerala | Ottam Thullal, Kaikottikali |
| Madhya Pradesh | Karma, Pandavani, Matki |
| Maharashtra | Lavani, Koli, Lezim |
| Manipur | Ras Leela, Pung Cholom |
| Meghalaya | Nongkrem, Wangala |
| Mizoram | Cheraw, Bamboo Dance |
| Nagaland | Hornbill Dance, Bamboo Dance |
| Odisha | Chhau, Dalkhai, Sambalpuri |
| Punjab | Bhangra, Giddha, Dholna |
| Rajasthan | Ghoomar, Kalbelia, Chari |
| Sikkim | Singhi Chham, Khukuri Naach, Chu Faat |
| Tamil Nadu | Mayil Attam, Bommalattam, Kavadi |
| Telangana | Dappu, Bathukamma, Kommu |
| Tripura | Hojagiri, Garia, Jhumur |
| Uttar Pradesh | Raslila, Kajri, Nautanki |
| Uttarakhand | Chapal, Jhora, Chholiya |
| West Bengal | Kathi, Gambhira, Dhali |
These are just a few of the many folk dances in India. Folk dances are a vibrant and important part of Indian culture, and they offer a glimpse into the lives and traditions of the people.