Mohiniattam was popularized by Swathi Thirunal the erstwhile ruler of Travancore in the 19th century. He promoted this art and composed many themes and added vocal accompaniments in the back ground which is still followed today. During the 20th century Mohiniattam evolved into a dance of beautiful lady form the ancient believe of dance of the enchantress.
Art
Mohiniyattam
History of Mohiniyattam
Mohiniattam is a classical dance form which originated in Kerala during the 16th century and it one of the eight classical dance forms recognized by the Sangeet Natak Academy. Mohiniattam is performed exclusively by women can be defined as the dance of the seducing woman. Mohiniattam is a solo dance performed in a single costume and totally feminine due to its wave like body movements.
How to perform
Mohiniattam dancers wear an off white sari with golden boarders and fully adorned with gold jewellery like necklaces, bangles, waistbands and anklets. The hair is tied up into the shape of a bun with jasmine flower surrounding it. The musical accompaniment for the dance is instruments like violin, veena and Mridangam. The vocal support narrates the episodes from epics and the dancer portrays it through elegant steps, rhythmic movements and amazing facial expressions.
Famous artists from kerala
- Sri Swathi Thirunal Rama Varma.
- Sri Vallathol Narayana Menon.
- Smt Kalamandalam Kalyanikutty Amma.
