Dances of India - Dance Education

Dance Education

Traditionally, dance as a profession or a hobby was discouraged among upper classes and higher castes in India. It was looked upon as a lowly activity and women from reputed households were prohibited from practising any dance form. Hence, in forms like Bhavai and Gotipua, men would take up the roles of female characters.

Rukmini Devi Arundale revived the classical dance form Bharata Natyam and in its modern avatar, it became an acceptable subject of training for women. Shiamak Davar, a noted Indian choreographer, started the Shiamak Davar Institute for Performing Arts in 1985 and it has over 25,000 members.

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