MOHINIYATTAM
Mohiniyattam is the dance form originated in Kerala. It is performed in slow and pace. The hand gestures translate the meaning of the song sung in the background. In the word Mohiniyattam, the word ‘Mohini’ means enchantress and ‘attam’ means dance. It is formed as the temple dance and has close similarities to Bharathanatyam.
As an art form of Travancore formed in the 19th century during the time of King Swati Thirunal, the King an admirer of art popularized this. More importance is given to the gestural and facial expression. The language used in the lyrics of the song sung is Manipravalam (a mixture of Malayalam and Sanskrit). The depiction of the romantic padams like Swadheena Bharthruka, Khanditha, Abhisarika, Vipralabdha, Kalahandtharitha, Vasakasajja, Proshithabharthruka and Viraholkhanditha make the dance form an amazing one. Cholkettu, Padavarnam, Padam, Mudras and facial expressions are the significant items of the dance.
The dancer wears the traditional Kerala sari with series of pleats. Her hair is knotted at the side of the head adoring a jasmine garland around it. With normal facial make-up, the dancer dances to the rhythm of the background music.
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