Kuchipudi
Kuchipudi
is one of the classical dance forms of the South India. Kuchipudi derives its name
from the Kuchipudi village of Andhra Pradesh. In the seventeenth century the
Kuchipudi village was presented to the Brahmins, who were experts in staging
dance and drama. Kuchipudi exhibits scenes from the Hindu Epics, legends and
mythological tales through a combination of music, dance and acting. Like other
classical dances, Kuchipudi also comprises pure dance, mime and histrionics but
it is the use of speech that distinguishes Kuchipudi's presentation as dance
drama.
Kuchipudi dance forms |
Carrying a fine combination of Natya,
Nritta and Nritya, Kuchipudi was never a solo affair and required a number of
performers. Kuchipudi was performed in the open air by performers who were
given a vigorous training in abhinaya, music, dancing and singing. In its early
form, the female roles were played by boys and young men of beautiful looks.
The director (called Sutradhar) played the most important role. He combined the
role of conductor, dancer, singer, musician, comedian, all in one. The
Kuchipudi performance started with orchestral music which included Mridanga,
Madala and a pair of cymbals. To bless the performance invocation of a deity
was done. All this was followed by announcement of the theme of the play and
introduction of characters by the sutradhar.
In modern times the Kuchipudi dance
is considerably different than it originally used to be. Most of the
performances are solo, done by female dancers. Today the expressional numbers
are sung by the danseuse herself instead by the vocalists in the background of
the stage. The invocation of deity part has also been done away with as
Kuchipudi has become more secular in its presentation. Today there is
predominance of 'sringar' or erotic essence. Another notable facet of modern
day Kuchipudi is the dilution of drama component.
Kuchipudi has many features that are
common to other classical dances of India. Kuchipudi carries the sensuousness
and fluidity of Odissi with the geometric line of today's Bharata Natyam. As in
all other classical dance forms of India, the Kuchipudi dance is both
interpretive and lyrical, making use of abstract dance sequences as well.
Kuchipudi dance retains its devotional character with stress on dramatic
outlook. It is because of these qualities and features Kuchipudi dance enjoys great
popularity and is recognized as one of the leading classical dance styles of
India.
No comments:
Post a Comment