Introduction
(Image Source: Wikimedia Commons)
Mohiniyattam, is classical dance style with elegant postures that allure the audience through their expression and graceful footwork.This dance style, which originated from Kerala and it is one of the prominent classical dance forms of India.The phrase “Mohiniyattam” comes from the words “Mohini” (the fabled women who is captively attractive; an avatar of Lord Vishnu) and “attam” (meaning dance).
Origin
According to a Hindu legend, a story of Lord Vishnu’s female form, Mohini distributes a magical potion of immortality to the gods and diverts devils with her charm. This story shapes the dance form’s ideals of love, commitment, and the victory of good over evil in addition to giving it its name.In the past, Mohiniyattam has been mentioned in writings such “Vyavaharamala” and “Ghoshayatra,” reflecting its lasting significance in Kerala’s cultural heritage.
(image: Mohini ,sculpture in belur)(Image Source: Wikimedia Commons)
How It Flourished: From Temples to Theatres
(Image:Mohiniyattam dance performance by Guru Jaya Prava Menon disciples at Youth Festival 2012 ,Delhi)
(Image Source: Wikimedia Commons)
Mohiniyattam was mainly performed by women in temple courtyard. But during colonial era ,it suffered setback due to social norms and a lack of support.With the establishment of Institutions like Kerala Kalamandalam are credited with bringing this art form back to mainstream.
As a representation of Kerala’s rich artistic legacy, Mohiniyattam now holds a significant position in academic institutions and cultural events both domestically and internationally.
Costume and Aesthetics
(Image Source: Wikimedia Commons )
The costume is complemented by traditional jewelry, including necklaces, bangles, and hair ornaments, with the hair typically styled in a bun adorned with jasmine flowers.
Makeup is more focused on eyes ,which enhances the facial expressions and this plays important role in conveying emotions .
1. The Sari and “Kasavu” Motif
The kasavu, or white/off-white sari with a golden border, has its origins in Keralan temple customs and is also connected to the clothing worn by Namboodiri and royal women during occasions such as festivals and rites.
It is ideal for a dance style like Mohiniyattam, which is rooted in elegance and spiritual balance, as its symbolism comes from Sattva Guna (purity and calm).
2. Jasmine Flowers in Hair
Whenever there is a temple visit or any festivities South Indians have always decorated their hair with jasmine (mullappoo)it connects with love, femininity, and good prosperity. Here It represents the dancer’s presenting her art to the divine in temple rites and dance.
Movements and Expressions
(Image: Mohiniyattam expression,Indian classical dance by Shagil Kannur)(Image Source: Wikimedia Commons)
1. Patterns of Circular Movement
As the basis in Indian philosophy, the cyclical nature of time and cosmic continuation are represented by the circular, swaying body movements of mohiniyattam. The “Atavus” (basic steps) that reflects the flow of nature, such as rippling water and swaying palms, which are characteristic of Kerala’s terrain.
2. Lasya (Feminine Grace)
Often associated to goddess Parvati ,the classical Sanskrit idea of lasya, which gives delicate beauty and emotional depth in dance, is explained in works such as Natya Shastra and Abhinaya Darpana. In contrast to more vibrant forms like Kathakali or Bharatanatyam, Mohiniyattam fully embraces this idea.
3. Eye Movements (Netra Abhinaya)
This is highlighted greatly in Kerala temple dances, such as Koodiyattam and Ottanthullal. This tradition is carried on by Mohiniyattam, that uses netra abhinaya to illustrate changes in relationships, time and emotion.
4. Mudras (Hand Gestures)
The mudras are taken from classical texts such as the Natya Shastra and the Hastha Lakshanadeepika.In Mohiniyattam, mudras are intimate, tender, and poetic, in contrast to other forms where they can often be figurative .Each mudra reflects the lyrical nature of the songs (padams and varnams) used in the dance by picturing a story in the air, of a flower budding, a river flowing, or a bird flying.
5. Bhakti (Devotional) Expression as a Core Motif
This classical dance form developed under the temple premises and thus ensured it’s devotional core.the themes were often depicting krishna bakthi which centred around love for divine and thus was influenced by Bhakthi movement in south India.
Mohiniyattam and Its Role in Pop-Culture
(Image:poster of the filim Pullipuliyum Aattinkuttiyum (2013) (Image Source:M3DB )
Mohiniyattam, a classical dance form from Kerala, is deeply connected to tradition. But over time, it has also become part of modern culture. Famous dancers like Bharati Shivaji and Sunanda Nair have helped make Mohiniyattam known across the world. They have performed at international festivals and blended the traditional dance style with modern themes.
Mohiniyattam has also appeared in Indian films and television shows.
Kamala(2019) – A Malayalam movie in which the main character is shown performing Mohiniyattam
Pullipuliyum Aattinkuttiyum (2013), another malayalam movie there is a graceful Mohiniyattam performance by actress Namitha Pramod
Current Status of Mohiniyattam
(Image Source: Wikimedia Commons)
With the establishment of dedicated institutions like Kerala Kalamandalam in 1930 and various cultural organizations that offer training and performance opportunities classical dance forms are evolving.
New themes and narratives are continuously exploring by the artists while maintaining the traditional essence of dance form .There are bachelors degree as well as master’s degree programs in classical dance offered by reputed universities like Sree Sankaracharya University of Sanskrit and Kerala Kalamandalam Deemed University this further improves their career as a dancer.
despite this growth, there is a diminishing number of youngsters in this field due to financial issues ,lack of steady career opportunities, and limited visibility in mainstream media often discourage students from pursuing it seriously. Traditional arts like Mohiniyattam require long-term dedication and do not always offer immediate financial returns, making them a less popular choice among today’s youth.
References
1. “Mohiniyattam.” Wikipedia, https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mohiniyattam
2. “Mohiniyattam Dance.” Centre for Cultural Resources and Training, https://ccrtindia.gov.in/mohiniyattam-dance/
3. “Mohiniyattam: Classical Dance of Kerala.” Kerala Tourism, https://www.keralatourism.org/artforms/mohiniyattam-classical-dance/19/
4. “Mohiniyattam: Embracing Tradition, Embodying Grace.” Serenade Magazine, https://serenademagazine.com/mohiniyattam-embracing-tradition-embodying-grace/
5. “Mohiniyattam – the Classical Dance of Kerala.” Kerala Tourism, https://www.keralatourism.org/kerala-article/2010/mohiniyattam-classical-dance/81/
6.Kerala Kalamandalam Official Website
7.Sree Sankaracharya University of Sanskrit
8. Bharati Shivaji’s Mohiniyattam Institute
9.Press coverage on classical arts and youth participation – The Hindu, Indian Express
10.https://culturalindia.org.in/exploring-the-different-styles-of-classical-dance-in-india/