Mohiniyattam

Mohiniyattam is an Indian classical dance form that emphasizes and elaborates on the Lasya

emotion. It derives its name from the female-avatar of lord Mahavishnu, Mohini – the enchantress.

As such, this style showcases a more feminine, enchanting form of dancing. It is characterized by

the dancer’s graceful expressions, hand gestures and swaying body movements. Traditionally, it

was performed in temples and court of the kings.

Age group = 8 and above

Thiruvathirakkali

Thiruvathirakkali is a ritualistic group dance performed by women in Kerala. It has its origins on

Shiva-Parvathi legend and is traditionally performed on the auspicious day of Thiruvathira star in the

malayalam month of Dhanu. However, recently, this has become inevitable in most of the auspicious

festivals such as Vishu and Onam. The group of dancers perform this dance standing in a circle

around a Nilavilakku (traditional floor lamp). The simplicity in the style and the rhythmic nature of the

dance with clapping of the hands makes it an easier form among all other classical dance forms.

This dance form epitomizes celebration of women in a traditional way. This dance form is different

from other classical dance forms, the emphasize here is to have “fun” in a group. Hence this is

appropriate for all age groups and all levels.

Age group = all ages.