Classical Dance Forms

**Statement 1 is correct:** Kuchipudi is a Classical Indian dance from Andhra Pradesh. It is also popular all over South India. Vachika abhinaya (use of words or dialogues) is a special feature of the Kuchipudi style. **Statement 2 is incorrect:** Bharatanatyam is a classical Indian dance form that originated in the temples of South India. Dancing on brass plates is a feature of Kuchipudi and not Bharatnatyam.

Tribhanga or Tribunga is a (tri-bent pose) standing body position or stance used in traditional Indian sculpture, art, and Indian classical dance forms like Odissi. As compared with the contrapposto pose, Tribhanga, literally meaning three parts break, consists of three bends in the body; at the neck, waist, and knee, hence the body is oppositely curved at the waist and neck which gives it a gentle "S" shape and is considered the most graceful and sensual of the Odissi positions. It has been closely associated with the Hindu deity Krishna who is often portrayed in this posture.

**Statement 1 is correct:** Garba is a traditional folk dance from Gujarat, performed especially during the Navratri festival in honour of Goddess Durga. **Statement 2 is incorrect:** Mohiniyattam is a classical dance form of Kerala, not Odisha. It is known for its graceful, feminine movements and is performed solo by women. **Statement 3 is correct:** Yakshagana is a traditional theatre form from Karnataka, combining dance, music, dialogue, and elaborate costumes to depict mythological stories.

Sattriya originated in Sattra, a monastery, as a part of neo-Vaishnavite movement started by Srimanta Sankardev in the 15th Century. He propagated the 'ek sharan Naama dharma' (chanting the name of one God devotedly). **Statement 1 is correct:** Sattriya is indeed a combination of music, dance, and drama. It incorporates storytelling through movement and expressions. **Statement 2 is correct:** Sattriya has a rich history and is a living tradition practiced for centuries by Vaishnavites of Assam. **Statement 3 is incorrect:** While devotional in nature, Sattriya dance is based on compositions by Sankardeva and other Assamese saints, not Tulsidas, Kabir, and Mirabai who belonged to different Bhakti traditions. Sattriya uses its own distinct Ragas and Talas.

**Statement 1 is correct.** Manipuri Sankirtana is a vibrant performance art that combines singing, dancing, and drumming. **Statement 2 is incorrect.** While cymbals are used, Manipuri Sankirtana incorporates other instruments like the Pung (hand-beaten drum), Pena (string instrument), and harmonium. **Statement 3 is correct.** A core aspect of Manipuri Sankirtana is narrating stories and themes from Hinduism, particularly those related to Lord Krishna.