South India is famous for various forms of art and a rich culture, the dance forms being some of the most important genres of them. The arts of Kerala open up a large variety of music and dance forms, apart from the martial arts. Mohiniattam is one of the original dances of Kerala. Of late this dance form has gained tremendous popularity in the world scene.

Mohiniattam stands as a dance of sheer overt sensual charm. This classical style is actually a fusion of the highly conventionalized and male-oriented Kathakali with the rigidly classical dance form of Bharatnatyam. Though it shows eminent similarities with both these styles, it has distinctly developed as a unique and individual dance-form. Ideally like Bharatnatyam, Mohiniattam is a solo dance performed by women, and its technical structure quite resembles the former. Also, the influence of the grand Kathakali movements has accented dramatic, emotional impact to a greater degree.
Mohiniattam has literal connotations to Mohini (maiden who charms the onlooker) and attam (dance). Usually the legends in India connect the name of Mohini to that of Lord Vishnu who, according to the Hindu mythology, took the form of Mohini, the divine enchantress to allure Demon Bhasmasura and finally defeated him.

Wide swaying steps and the swinging bodily movement of the torso from side to side are typical characteristics of Mohiniattam. Rhythmic beats called �choll� based on patterns of the rhythm syllables are essential parts of the vocal accompaniment, thus representing the graceful dance form with beautiful gestures and footwork. The lyrics are in Manipravalam, a combination of Sanskrit and Malayalam. Ideally heavy stamping and rhythmical tension are strictly avoided in this dance form. The foot movements in Mohiniattam are gentle, soft and sliding. They are elegant, easy and natural, and never abrupt. The basic dance steps are the Adavus which are of four kinds, namely, Taganam, Dhaganam, Jaganam, and Sammisram.

Realistic make-up and simple dressing are significant features of the dance form of Mohiniattam. Traditionally the performers wear beautiful white and gold bordered Kasavu sarees of Kerala.

Some of the exponents of Mohiniattam, one of the leading forms of arts and crafts of Kerala are Kalyani Kuttiamma, Chinnammu Amma, Kanak Rele, Deepti Bhalla, Sunanda Nair, and Bharati Shivaji.

Log on to www.touristplacesinindia.com which gives online information on the dance form of Mohiniattam on your tour to India.