Lakshmi Vishwanathan, who won the prestigious Natya Kalanidhi Award from the Music Academy was famous for which dance form?
AKuchipudi
BOdissi
CKathak
DBharatanatyam
Answer:
D. Bharatanatyam
Read Explanation:
Bharatanatyam: A Classical Indian Dance Form
- Lakshmi Vishwanathan is a renowned exponent of Bharatanatyam, a major form of Indian classical dance.
- Bharatanatyam originated in the temples of Tamil Nadu in Southern India. It was traditionally performed by devadasis (temple dancers).
- The dance form is known for its geometric movements, sculptural poses (karanas), and intricate footwork (nritta).
- It also incorporates expressive storytelling (abhinaya) through hand gestures (mudras), facial expressions, and body movements, often depicting themes from Hindu mythology.
- The Music Academy, Chennai, is a prominent institution that promotes Indian classical music and dance. The Natya Kalanidhi Award is one of its highest honors, recognizing outstanding contributions to the field of dance.
- Lakshmi Vishwanathan received this award, acknowledging her significant contributions and mastery in Bharatanatyam.
- She has also received other accolades such as the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award, further solidifying her position as a leading artist in the classical dance circuit.
Key Aspects of Bharatanatyam:
- Nritta: Pure dance, focusing on rhythm, tempo, and footwork.
- Nritya: Expressive dance, conveying emotions and stories through gestures and facial expressions.
- Natya: Dramatic representation, involving acting and storytelling.
- Costumes: Typically feature vibrant silk sarees, ornate jewelry, and bells on the ankles (ghungroos).
- Music: Accompanied by Carnatic music, with vocals, mridangam, violin, flute, and nattuvangam (cymbals).