Mohiniyattam is a classical dance form that originated in the state of Kerala, in the southwestern region of India. It is known for its graceful and fluid movements, subtle expressions, and storytelling through dance.
The name “Mohiniyattam” is derived from the words “Mohini,” referring to the enchantress avatar of the Hindu god Vishnu, and “attam,” which means dance. Legend has it that Mohiniyattam was performed by Mohini to enthrall the gods and demons during the churning of the ocean (Samudra Manthan) in Hindu mythology.
Mohiniyattam is characterized by its lyrical and sensuous movements, which are reminiscent of the swaying of palm trees and the gentle waves of Kerala’s backwaters. Dancers typically wear white or off-white sarees with golden borders, adorned with traditional jewelry and hair accessories.
The dance repertoire of Mohiniyattam includes a mix of pure dance (nritta) and expressive storytelling (nritya). Movements are characterized by gentle swaying, subtle facial expressions, and intricate hand gestures (mudras), which convey emotions and convey narratives from Hindu mythology, particularly stories of love and devotion.
Mohiniyattam performances are accompanied by live music, usually featuring classical Carnatic music compositions. The musical ensemble typically includes instruments such as the mridangam (percussion), violin, flute, veena, and vocal accompaniment.
Like other classical dance forms of India, Mohiniyattam is taught in schools and academies dedicated to preserving and promoting the art form. Dancers trained in Mohiniyattam continue to perform both within India and internationally, contributing to the rich cultural heritage of Kerala and the broader Indian classical dance tradition.