Mohiniyattam
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The graceful solo classical dance of Kerala, named after Mohini, the enchantress form of Vishnu, with gentle swaying movements and expressive storytelling.
ClassicalWhere: KeralaOccasion: Temple festivals and stage performances
| Performed by | Traditionally women soloists |
|---|---|
| Costume | White or off-white saree with a gold kasavu border, hair tied in a bun to one side and decorated with jasmine |
| Music and instruments | Carnatic music in the slow sopana style, with mridangam, edakka, veena and flute; songs in Malayalam and Manipravalam |
How it is performed
- The dancer begins with an invocation and pure dance pieces such as the cholkettu.
- Movements flow in circles and gentle sways of the body, often compared to palm fronds or the waves of the backwaters.
- The feet keep time softly, without the strong stamping seen in some other styles.
- In the expressive pieces (padams and varnams) she acts out love, longing and devotion with mudras and facial expression.
Significance
Mohiniyattam was revived in the twentieth century, notably by the poet Vallathol Narayana Menon through Kerala Kalamandalam. It is one of the eight classical dances recognised by the Sangeet Natak Akademi.