How do you distinguish between Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam dances? Dancers occasionally speaking dialogues is found in Kuchipudi dance but not in Bharatanatyam. Dancing on the brass plate by keeping the feet on its edges is a feature of Bharatanatyam but Kuchipudi dance does not have such a form of movements. Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

Q 6 / 7

UPSC CSE Prelims 2012

How do you distinguish between Kuchipudi and Bharatanatyam dances?

Dancers occasionally speaking dialogues is found in Kuchipudi dance but not in Bharatanatyam.
Dancing on the brass plate by keeping the feet on its edges is a feature of Bharatanatyam but Kuchipudi dance does not have such a form of movements.

Which of the statements given above is/are correct?

EXPLANATION

Correct Option

Statement 1 is correct. Kuchipudi, a classical dance form from Andhra Pradesh, incorporates 'Vachika Abhinaya' (dialogue) where dancers occasionally speak or sing parts of the narrative. This is a distinguishing feature of Kuchipudi. Bharatanatyam, originating from Tamil Nadu, primarily emphasizes 'Angika', 'Aharya', and 'Sattvika Abhinaya', with spoken dialogues by the dancer not being a characteristic element.

Incorrect Options

Statement 2 is incorrect. The practice of dancing on the edges of a brass plate, known as 'Tarangam', is a unique and challenging feature of Kuchipudi, particularly seen in items like 'Krishna Shabdam' or 'Bhama Kalapam'. Performers demonstrate intricate footwork while balancing on the plate. This specific form of movement is not found in Bharatanatyam. The statement incorrectly attributes this feature to Bharatanatyam and denies it to Kuchipudi.

SOURCEIndian Art and Culture by Nitin Singhania, Chapter 10: Indian Classical Dances