Classical Dances of India Practice Questions
20 free Classical Dances of India practice questions for the Static GK. Tap an option to answer — you get instant feedback, the correct answer, and a detailed explanation for every question.
Which of the following classical dance forms originated in the state of Kerala and is known for its elaborate face makeup and costumes?
- A Bharatanatyam
- B Kathakali
- C Mohiniyattam
- D Kuchipudi
Correct answer: Kathakali
Kathakali is a traditional dance-drama from Kerala. It is distinguished by its 'vesham' (costumes) and 'chayilyam' (vibrant face paints) used to depict various characters from epics.
The classical dance form 'Sattriya' was introduced in the 15th century by which great Vaishnava saint?
- A Chaitanya Mahaprabhu
- B Sankaradeva
- C Tyagaraja
- D Swami Haridas
Correct answer: Sankaradeva
Mahapurush Sankaradeva introduced Sattriya in Assam as a medium for propagation of the Vaishnava faith. It was originally performed by male monks (Bhokots) in monasteries called Sattras.
Which dance form is characterized by the 'Kharanam' movements and is rooted in the Natya Shastra, originating from Tamil Nadu?
- A Yakshagana
- B Mohiniyattam
- C Bharatanatyam
- D Seraikella Chhau
Correct answer: Bharatanatyam
Bharatanatyam is one of the oldest classical dance forms of India. It was traditionally performed by Devadasis in the temples of Tamil Nadu and is known for its fixed upper torso and bent legs.
The 'Tribhanga' posture, where the body is bent at the neck, waist, and knee, is a signature feature of which dance form?
- A Kathakali
- B Kathak
- C Odissi
- D Kuchipudi
Correct answer: Odissi
Odissi, originating from Odisha, is known for the Tribhanga posture which creates an 'S' curve in the body. This pose is frequently seen in ancient temple sculptures of the region.
Which classical dance form is famous for the 'Tarangam', where dancers perform on the edges of a brass plate?
- A Bharatanatyam
- B Kathak
- C Kuchipudi
- D Mohiniyattam
Correct answer: Kuchipudi
Kuchipudi, from Andhra Pradesh, features the Tarangam where the dancer balances a water pot on the head while dancing on a brass plate. This demonstrates the dancer's exceptional balance and rhythmic control.
The term 'Chakkir' or 'Chakkar', involving fast vertical spins, is most prominently associated with which dance?
- A Kathak
- B Manipuri
- C Odissi
- D Sattriya
Correct answer: Kathak
Kathak, the classical dance of North India, emphasizes intricate footwork and rapid spins known as Chakkars. It evolved from nomadic bards known as Kathakars.
Which dance form is known as the 'Dance of the Enchantress' and is performed exclusively by women in Kerala?
- A Bharatanatyam
- B Mohiniyattam
- C Kuchipudi
- D Sattriya
Correct answer: Mohiniyattam
Mohiniyattam is named after 'Mohini', the female avatar of Lord Vishnu. It is characterized by graceful, swaying movements that mimic the palm trees and rivers of Kerala.
The 'Raas Leela', depicting the divine love between Radha and Krishna, is the central theme of which classical dance?
- A Odissi
- B Manipuri
- C Kathak
- D Bharatanatyam
Correct answer: Manipuri
Manipuri dance is deeply rooted in Vaishnavism and focuses on the Raas Leela. It is known for its delicate, fluid movements and the unique cylindrical skirt called 'Kumil'.
In which classical dance are 'Ghungroos' (bells) not used to emphasize the footwork, unlike most other Indian classical dances?
- A Kathak
- B Odissi
- C Manipuri
- D Kuchipudi
Correct answer: Manipuri
In Manipuri dance, the footwork is gentle and soft, and the dancer's feet never strike the ground hard. Therefore, unlike Kathak or Bharatanatyam, Ghungroos are not worn.
The 'Thana' or 'Sthanaka' refers to the basic standing postures in which classical dance form?
- A Bharatanatyam
- B Sattriya Nritya
- C Kathakali
- D Mohiniyattam
Correct answer: Bharatanatyam
In Bharatanatyam, Sthanakas are the static positions or postures. These form the foundation upon which the movement sequences (Adavus) are built.
The musical accompaniment for Odissi dance typically follows which tradition?
- A Carnatic Music
- B Hindustani Music
- C Odissi Music
- D Sufi Music
Correct answer: Odissi Music
Odissi dance is accompanied by Odissi music, which is a distinct system of Indian classical music having its own unique ragas and talas, separate from both Hindustani and Carnatic traditions.
Which dance form uses 'Mudras' (hand gestures) extensively to narrate stories, often without any vocal lyrics during the Abhinaya part?
- A Kathakali
- B Mohiniyattam
- C Sattriya
- D Manipuri
Correct answer: Kathakali
Kathakali relies heavily on 24 main mudras to communicate dialogue and emotions. The dancers use these gestures along with intense facial expressions to tell complex stories from the Puranas.
Who among the following is credited with the revival of Bharatanatyam in the 20th century, moving it from temples to the stage?
- A Rukmini Devi Arundale
- B Birju Maharaj
- C Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra
- D Guru Bipin Singh
Correct answer: Rukmini Devi Arundale
Rukmini Devi Arundale was instrumental in removing the social stigma attached to Bharatanatyam. She founded Kalakshetra in Chennai to promote the dance form's spiritual and artistic purity.
The 'Pung Cholom' is a traditional drum dance that is often performed as a prelude to which classical dance?
- A Sattriya
- B Odissi
- C Manipuri
- D Kathak
Correct answer: Manipuri
Pung Cholom is a highly energetic Manipuri dance where performers play the 'Pung' (drum) while jumping and spinning. It combines elements of martial arts and traditional rhythm.
The 'Sangeet Natak Akademi' currently recognizes how many classical dance forms of India?
- A 6
- B 7
- C 8
- D 9
Correct answer: 8
The Sangeet Natak Akademi recognizes eight classical dances: Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kathakali, Kuchipudi, Odissi, Manipuri, Mohiniyattam, and Sattriya. (Note: The Ministry of Culture also includes Chhau, totaling nine).
Which classical dance is associated with the 'Lucknow', 'Jaipur', and 'Banaras' gharanas?
- A Kathak
- B Kathakali
- C Odissi
- D Bharatanatyam
Correct answer: Kathak
Kathak is divided into these three main gharanas. The Lucknow gharana is known for grace and expression, Jaipur for powerful footwork and spins, and Banaras for its unique spiritual approach.
The 'Kavithuvam' is a traditional opening item in a recital of which dance form?
- A Mohiniyattam
- B Bharatanatyam
- C Sattriya Nritya
- D Kathakali
Correct answer: Bharatanatyam
Kavithuvam is a song of devotion in praise of a deity, combining dance movements with rhythmic syllables. It is often performed early in a Bharatanatyam 'Margam' (repertoire).
In Mohiniyattam, the costume is typically a white or off-white saree with what color border?
- A Red
- B Green
- C Gold
- D Black
Correct answer: Gold
The Mohiniyattam costume consists of a white or cream-colored Kasavu saree with a distinct gold-laced (Zari) border. This simple yet elegant attire reflects the traditional clothing of Kerala.
Which classical dance incorporates 'Vachika Abhinaya', where the dancer may occasionally speak or sing dialogues while performing?
- A Kuchipudi
- B Mohiniyattam
- C Kathak
- D Manipuri
Correct answer: Kuchipudi
Unlike many other classical forms that rely solely on gestures, Kuchipudi dancers sometimes use vocal expression (Vachika Abhinaya) to complement their performance, reflecting its origins as a dance-drama.
The 'Goti Puas' were traditional precursors to which modern classical dance form?
- A Sattriya
- B Odissi
- C Manipuri
- D Kathak
Correct answer: Odissi
Gotipuas were young boys dressed as girls who performed Odissi in temples. They were instrumental in keeping the Odissi tradition alive when the practice of Maharis (temple dancers) declined.