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Classical Dance and Folk Dance - Differences, Definition With Examples, Features And More
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The major difference between Classical Dance and Folk Dance is that Classical Dance is believed to be spiritual, and only trained professionals can perform them. Folk dance, on the other side, is meant for festivals, social gatherings, and agricultural harvests where everyone can take part in it easily. Furthermore, classical dance has many technicalities and requires elegance, poise, posture, and abhinaya, but folk dance does not. In truth, folk dance is all about energy, enthusiasm, and having a wonderful time.
Difference Between Classical Dance and Folk Dance is one of the most important topics for the UPSC IAS exam. It covers a significant part of the Art & Culture subject in the General Studies Paper-1 syllabus.
In this article, we will understand the difference Between Classical Dance and Folk Dance for UPSC Exams. All these dimensions are important for civil services examinations. Considering this, the Testbook provides the best quality notes for UPSC Exams.
Difference Between Classical Dance and Folk Dance
The following table details the list of differences between Classical Dance and Folk Dance.
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Differences Between Classical Dance and Folk Dance |
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Classical Dance |
Folk Dance |
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Classical dance is thought to be more difficult, and the technical components are always strictly adhered to. |
Folk dancing is said to be liberating and amusing. This dance form is based on a variety of local stories concerning two-person or two-season connections. |
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The Natya Shastra is the source of classical dance. Lasya and Tandava are the two fundamental parts of classical dance. |
Folk dance is a type of dance that develops when individuals begin to reflect on their life frequently while listening to local music. |
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The traditional dance form is thought to be spiritual in nature. |
This dance type is related to agricultural harvest celebrations or social gatherings such as weddings, birthdays, and so on. |
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A classical dance form is known for its gracefulness and poise. |
Folk dancing is known for its vigour and strength. |
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Classical dance is done by experts who have years of experience or have been instructed to perform this dance form for many years. |
Folk dance is not done by specialists or professionals because it is mostly performed by ordinary people. |
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There are a total of eight classical dances in India. |
In India, there are around 30 types of folk dance practised in various states. |
What is Classical Dance?
Classical dance is a traditional dance form rooted in cultural and historical significance. It embodies specific techniques, postures, and gestures passed down through generations. Classical dance often tells stories or expresses emotions through graceful movements and precise footwork. It requires years of dedicated practice and training to master the intricate techniques and maintain the authenticity of the art form. Various countries have their own distinct classical dance styles. Examples of classical dance such as Bharatanatyam, Kathak, and Odissi.
Features of Classical Dance
- Classical dance, derived from the teachings of the Natya Shastra, encompasses a collection of dances.
- The Natya Shastra is an ancient theatrical text that has greatly influenced the development of these dances, known for their refined technique, structure, and execution.
- The transmission of these dance forms often relies on a longstanding teacher-student relationship.
- Classical dance is recognized for its stylized and performance-centric nature.
- Training in these dance styles is rigorous and challenging, incorporating various technical, spatial, rhythmic, lyrical, literary, and emotional aspects.
- Typically, classical dances are performed by professionals or highly skilled dancers who have dedicated years to mastering their specific genre.
- Emphasis is placed on elegance, stamina, abhinaya (expression), and composure within classical dances.
- While primarily designed for solo performances, group renditions of classical dances are also possible.
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Examples of Classical Dance
- Bharatanatyam: Originating from Tamil Nadu, Bharatanatyam is one of the oldest and most well-known classical dance forms.
- Kathak: Hailing from northern India, Kathak is known for its fast-paced footwork and spins. It has Hindu and Muslim influences and often involves storytelling through rhythmic movements and expressive gestures.
- Odissi: Evolving from the state of Odisha, Odissi is known for its lyrical movements and sculpturesque poses.
- Kuchipudi: Originating in the state of Andhra Pradesh, Kuchipudi is a dance-drama form that incorporates elements of both dance and theatre.
- Manipuri: Hailing from Manipur, this dance form is characterized by its graceful movements, gentle swaying, and distinctive costumes.
- Kathakali: Emerging from Kerala, Kathakali is a highly stylized dance-drama known for its elaborate makeup, colorful costumes, and exaggerated facial expressions.
- Sattriya: Originating in Assam, Sattriya is traditionally performed by monks in the Sattras (monasteries).
- Mohiniyattam: Native to Kerala, Mohiniyattam is characterized by its graceful and fluid movements.
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What is Folk Dance?
Folk dance is a type of dance created by people to express themselves and their culture. It is often performed in groups and is a way to celebrate important events, such as harvests, marriages, and religious holidays. Folk dancing does not require any formal training, but it does require dancers to be able to follow the steps that are being taught. The purpose of folk dancing is to have fun and to connect with others.
Features of Folk Dance
- Folk dances are performed primarily for pure enjoyment without requiring extensive knowledge or technical skills.
- These dances are spontaneous and informal, often featuring traditional narratives rather than fantastical ones.
- Humor and wordplay are integral to folk dances, with stories revolving around seasons and interpersonal relationships often amusing.
- Moreover, certain folk dances draw inspiration from folklore, exploring tales of human connections and changing seasons.
- India boasts a wide variety of folk dances. Examples of folk dance are Ghoomer, Garba, Bihu, Lavani, Dandiya, Kalbelia, Rouff, Chari, and Bhangra.
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Examples of Fold Dances
Here are some examples of popular folk dances from different regions of India:
- Bhangra: Hailing from Punjab, Bhangra is a lively and energetic dance often performed during harvest.
- Garba: Originating from Gujarat, Garba is a traditional dance performed during the festival of Navaratri.
- Dandiya Raas: Also associated with Navaratri in Gujarat, Dandiya Raas involves dancers using colorful sticks (dandiyas) while performing coordinated steps in pairs.
- Lavani: Hailing from Maharashtra, Lavani is a lively dance known for its dynamic movements and rhythmic footwork.
- Ghoomar: Popular in Rajasthan, Ghoomar is a graceful dance women perform during festivals and special occasions.
- Bihu: Native to Assam, Bihu is a series of three dances performed during different stages of the agricultural calendar.
- Giddha: Another folk dance from Punjab, Giddha is a women-centric dance form performed during festivals and weddings.
- Chhau: Found in the eastern states of Jharkhand, West Bengal, and Odisha, Chhau is a masked dance that combines martial arts, folk traditions, and storytelling.
- Rouff: Hailing from the Kashmir Valley, Rouff is a group dance women perform at weddings and festivals.
- Sambalpuri: Originating in Odisha, Sambalpuri dance is known for its intricate footwork and colorful costumes.
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Difference Between Classical Dance and Folk Dance: FAQs
What exactly is classical dance?
Tandava (movement and rhythm) and Lasya (dancing) are the two main elements of Indian classical dance (grace, bhava & rasa). Natya (the theatrical part of the dance, i.e. character impersonation) and Nritta (the three primary components) are the three key components.
What distinguishes a classical dance from a traditional folk dance?
Professional or highly trained dancers who have studied their form for many years perform classical dances. Professional dancers do not perform folk dances. It is a dance performed by ordinary folks.
Name the eight classical dances.
Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kuchipudi, Odissi, Kathakali, Gaudiya Nritya, Sattriya, Manipuri, and Mohiniyattam are the eight styles recognised by the Sangeet Natak Academy. Drid Williams, for example, adds Chhau, Yakshagana, and Bhagavata Mela to the list. Chhau is also included in the Indian Ministry of Culture's classical list.
Which Indian classical dance is the most difficult?
Kuchipudi, which originated in the south Indian state of Andhra Pradesh, is considered one of the most difficult styles of Indian classical dance.
What role does classical dancing play in society?
Although all kinds of dance are significant, Classical Dance has its own place. It is not simply an appeal to obtain almighty power through the art of quintessence of beauty and power. Dance is a sort of meditation and prayer that helps to keep our minds at ease.