Classical Dance & Music

India's classical dance forms are not mere performances — they are worship in motion, developed over millennia in temples and courts:

• Bharatanatyam (Tamil Nadu): The oldest and most rigorous classical dance. Geometric positions, stamping footwork, expressive hand movements (Mudras), and facial expressions (Abhinaya). Originally performed by temple dancers (Devadasis).
• Kathak (North India): Influenced by the Mughal era — whirling spins, rapid footwork with bells (Ghungroo), and narrative hand gestures. The only classical dance with a distinct Islamic influence.
• Kathakali (Kerala): Dramatic — elaborate face painting, massive costumes, bulging eyes. Tells stories from the Mahabharata and Ramayana. A performance can last all night.
• Odissi (Odisha): Flowing and sculptural — inspired by the temple sculptures of Konark. The three-part head position (Tribhanga) is typical.
• Kuchipudi (Andhra Pradesh): Lively and dramatic, with spoken word and dance on a brass plate.

Classical Music

Indian music has two main traditions: Hindustani (North India) and Carnatic (South India). Both are based on the Raga system — melodic modes embodying specific emotions and times of day — and the Tala system (rhythmic cycles).

• Sitar: The most famous Indian instrument (Ravi Shankar, Anoushka Shankar). Long-necked lute with sympathetic strings.
• Tabla: Pair of hand drums — the rhythmic foundation of North Indian music.
• Veena: One of the world's oldest string instruments, central to Carnatic music.
• Shehnai: Oboe-like wind instrument, played at weddings and temples.

Qawwali (Sufi devotional music) is a world of its own: The ecstatic chants, led by a lead singer with clapping harmonium and tabla accompanists, can reach an intensity that puts listeners in a trance. Best experienced: Thursday evening at Nizamuddin Dargah in Delhi.