Mohiniyattam is a traditional dance form originated from the state of Kerala in southern India. This dance form is considered as one of the most graceful and delicate dance forms of India and it is popular all over the world. Mohiniyattam is a combination of two words "Mohini" which means a beautiful woman who can charm anyone with her grace and elegance and "yattam" which means dance.
It is said that Mohiniyattam was initially performed by women in the temples of Kerala to entertain the Gods and Goddesses. Later, it became popular as a performing art and the dance form was refined and developed by various artists. Today, it is one of the eight Indian classical dance forms recognized by the Sangeet Natak Akademi and the Ministry of Culture of the Government of India.
Mohiniyattam is known for its graceful movements, subtle expressions, and beautiful costumes. The dancers wear a traditional attire consisting of a white sari with a golden border, blouse, and a dupatta. The jewelry worn by the dancers includes necklaces, earrings, bracelets, and anklets made of gold or other metals. The music used in Mohiniyattam is usually classical Carnatic music and the lyrics are in the Malayalam language.
In this article, we will go through a complete guide to Mohiniyattam. We will cover the biography, age, height, figure, and net worth of some of the most popular Mohiniyattam dancers. We will also discuss the history, techniques, costumes, and music used in Mohiniyattam. So, let's dive in and explore the world of Mohiniyattam.
Mohiniyattam: A Complete Guide
Introduction
Mohiniyattam is a classical dance form of Kerala, India that originated in the 16th century. It is a graceful dance that is performed by women. The dance is known for its expressive and emotive movements which include swaying of the hips, subtle facial expressions, and graceful hand gestures.
History
The history of Mohiniyattam dates back to the 16th century when it was performed in the temples of Kerala. The dance was performed by the Devadasis, who were considered to be the servants of the gods. Over time, the dance form evolved and became popular among the royal families of Kerala. Today, Mohiniyattam is considered to be one of the eight Indian classical dance forms.
Techniques
There are several techniques that are used in Mohiniyattam. The first is the use of hand gestures. These gestures are known as mudras and are used to convey various emotions and ideas. The second technique is the use of facial expressions. The dancer uses her face to convey different emotions such as anger, happiness, and sadness. The third technique is the use of footwork. The dancer uses her feet to create rhythmic patterns on the ground.
Costumes
The costume worn by the Mohiniyattam dancer is called a Mundu. It is a two-piece outfit that consists of a skirt and a blouse. The skirt is usually made of cotton and is draped around the waist. The blouse is usually made of silk and is worn on top of the skirt. The dancer also wears a scarf called an Odakkuzhal on her head.
Net Worth
The net worth of the top Mohiniyattam performers varies. The most successful performers earn millions of rupees per year. However, for most performers, the income from their performances is their main source of income.
Conclusion
Mohiniyattam is a beautiful and emotive dance form that has its roots in Kerala, India. It is an important part of Indian culture and is enjoyed by millions of people around the world. Whether you are a fan of dance or just enjoy watching performances, Mohiniyattam is definitely worth experiencing.
Biography of Famous Mohiniyattam Dancers
1. Kalamandalam Kshemavathy
Kalamandalam Kshemavathy, also known as Kshema Panicker, is a renowned Mohiniyattam dancer who started her training at the age of 7. She has won numerous awards throughout her career for her dynamic performances, including the Kerala Sangeetha Nataka Academi Award and the Padma Shri.
2. Smitha Rajan
Smitha Rajan is a highly acclaimed Mohiniyattam artist who has performed in countries all over the world. She has been trained by several renowned gurus and has won many awards, including the National Scholarship from the Ministry of Culture.
3. Gopika Varma
Gopika Varma is a Mohiniyattam dancer and choreographer who has performed at various national and international festivals. She has been honored with several accolades, including the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award and the National Film Award for Best Choreography.
4. Pallavi Krishnan
Pallavi Krishnan is a talented Mohiniyattam dancer who has taken part in various dance productions and festivals all over India. She has also established her own dance academy and has won several awards, including the Kerala State Award for her contributions to Mohiniyattam.
5. Kalamandalam Sajith Vijayan
Kalamandalam Sajith Vijayan is a male Mohiniyattam dancer who has gained recognition for his innovative and dynamic dance performances. He has performed at many prestigious events and festivals and has won many awards for his role in promoting Mohiniyattam.
Age, Height, and Figure of Mohiniyattam Dancers
Age of Mohiniyattam Dancers
The age of Mohiniyattam dancers varies greatly, with many starting as young as six years old and continuing into their 60s or later. Some of the most famous Mohiniyattam dancers started their careers at a very young age and have dedicated their lives to this ancient art form.
Although age is not a barrier for learning and performing Mohiniyattam, it requires a significant amount of physical stamina, grace, and flexibility. Many dancers continue to train and perform throughout their lives, adapting their performances to their changing bodies and abilities.
Height and Figure of Mohiniyattam Dancers
Mohiniyattam is a dance form that values grace, elegance, and fluidity of movement over physical attributes such as height or body type. While there are no strict requirements for a Mohiniyattam dancer's height or figure, one's physical appearance can affect their ability to perform certain movements, lifts, and poses.
That said, many Mohiniyattam dancers are of average height and have a slim or athletic build. This can be attributed to the dance form's emphasis on precise and controlled movements, which require a certain level of strength and agility.
Training and Practice
Becoming a skilled Mohiniyattam dancer requires many years of training, practice, and dedication. This involves not only learning the dance movements and techniques but also understanding the history, mythology, and cultural significance of the art form.
Mohiniyattam dancers also pay close attention to their physical health and well-being, engaging in regular exercise, stretching, and conditioning to maintain their flexibility and endurance. Through years of training and practice, Mohiniyattam dancers develop a deep understanding of their bodies and the art form, allowing them to perform with finesse, grace, and beauty.
Net Worth of the Top Mohiniyattam Dancers
Introduction
Mohiniyattam is an ancient Indian dance form that originated in Kerala. It is a graceful and elegant dance that is performed by women. Mohiniyattam dancers are known for their intricate footwork, expressive eye movements, and graceful hand gestures. Over the years, many talented Mohiniyattam dancers have gained popularity and made a name for themselves in the industry. In this article, we will look at the net worth of the top Mohiniyattam dancers.Net Worth of the Top Mohiniyattam Dancers
1. Shobana Chandrakumar: Shobana is a renowned Mohiniyattam dancer who has also acted in many films. Her net worth is estimated to be around $10 million. 2. Kalamandalam Kshemavathy: Kshemavathy is a well-known Mohiniyattam dancer who has won many awards for her performances. Her net worth is estimated to be around $2 million. 3. Sunanda Nair: Sunanda is an accomplished Mohiniyattam dancer who has performed at many prestigious events around the world. Her net worth is estimated to be around $5 million. 4. Manju Warrier: Manju is a popular Mohiniyattam dancer who has also worked in the film industry. Her net worth is estimated to be around $15 million. 5. Gopika Varma: Gopika is a talented Mohiniyattam dancer who has won many accolades for her performances. Her net worth is estimated to be around $3 million.Conclusion
Mohiniyattam is a beautiful dance form that requires years of dedication and practice to master. The top Mohiniyattam dancers have not only gained fame and recognition for their talent but have also amassed a significant amount of wealth. From Shobana Chandrakumar to Gopika Varma, these Mohiniyattam dancers have set a benchmark for others to follow.FAQ
What is Mohiniyattam and how did it originate?
Mohiniyattam is a traditional dance form from the state of Kerala, India. It originated in the early 18th century and was developed in the temples of Kerala. It is a combination of grace, rhythm, facial expressions, and hand gestures.
Who are the famous Mohiniyattam dancers?
Some of the famous Mohiniyattam dancers are Kalamandalam Kshemavathy, Kalamandalam Hymavathy, Kalamandalam Kshemavathy, Kalamandalam Sugandhi, Kalamandalam Sumathy, and Kalamandalam Satyabhama.
How does Mohiniyattam differ from other Indian classical dances?
Mohiniyattam is different from other Indian classical dances because it relies heavily on the mood and expression of the dancer. It is more subtle and graceful compared to other classical dances like Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi, and Kathak.
What are the costumes and jewelry used in Mohiniyattam?
The costume for Mohiniyattam is usually a white or cream-colored saree with a gold border. The jewelry includes necklaces, earrings, bangles, and anklets made of gold or other precious metals. The dancer also wears a hair accessory called a veni.
What is the net worth of famous Mohiniyattam dancers?
The net worth of famous Mohiniyattam dancers varies depending on their popularity and earnings. However, it is estimated that some of the famous dancers have a net worth of around $1 million to $5 million.
