Mohiniyattam is a classical solo dance form, with "Mohini" referring to the celestial enchantress from Hindu mythology.
Its origins trace back to the temples of Kerala, where it was traditionally performed by women.
References to Mohiniyattam can be found in Vyavaharamala (1709), written by Mazhamagalam Narayanan Namputiri, and later in Ghoshayatra by the renowned poet Kunjan Nambiar.
The dance was refined and structured into its present-day classical form under the patronage of the Travancore kings, particularly Maharaja Tirunal and Maharaja Swati Tirunal (18th–19th century AD).
Early forms of Mohiniyattam were performed by Nangiars (women of the Nambiar community) and were known as Dasiyattam.
The existence of Dasiyattam is further confirmed in the Tamil epic Cilappatikaram, written by the Chera prince Ilango Adigal between the 2nd and 5th century CE.
The poet laureate Mahakavi Vallathol played a crucial role in reviving and shaping Mohiniyattam into a distinct classical solo dance style.
In 1930, he founded the Kerala Kalamandalam, a premier institute for training in classical arts.
The movement technique of Mohiniyattam is characterized by graceful feminine movements, expressive hand gestures, and delicate footwork.
