Welcome, Lykkers! Have you ever seen Mohiniyattam? One of India's eight classical dance forms, it is a traditional dance style that originated in Kerala, a southwestern state known for its rich cultural heritage.

The term "Mohiniyattam" derives from the words "Mohini" (meaning an enchantress) and "attam" (meaning graceful movement or dance).

This beautiful art form is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology, combining the elements of grace, elegance, and gentle movement to create a mesmerizing experience for its audience.

Historical Origins and Mythological Roots

Mohiniyattam has its origins in ancient Indian mythology, particularly in the story of Lord Vishnu, who took the form of Mohini, an enchantress, to save the gods and restore balance in the universe. In one popular myth, Mohini distracts demons during the churning of the ocean to ensure that the divine nectar of immortality goes to the gods rather than the demons. This theme of an enchanting, alluring woman with the power to charm is central to the essence of Mohiniyattam and is evident in its storytelling style and movements.

The dance form was traditionally performed in the temples and royal courts of Kerala. It became prominent in the 16th century, with royal patronage under the rulers of Travancore, who supported and encouraged the development of several classical art forms. By the 19th century, with the contributions of poet and composer Swathi Thirunal, Mohiniyattam gained a structured format and a repertoire that is still preserved today.

The Aesthetic and Style of Mohiniattam

The beauty of Mohiniyattam lies in its subtle, graceful movements, slow rhythm, and gentle expressions. It is performed exclusively by women, and the dance's movements are soft, flowing, and circular, symbolizing the gentle sway of palm trees and the undulating backwaters of Kerala. The pace is deliberately slow, which gives the dancer an opportunity to express emotions with depth and intricacy, making it distinct from other faster-paced classical dance forms like Bharatanatyam or Kathak.

In Mohiniyattam, the dancer wears a traditional white or off-white sari with a gold border, known as the kasavu. The costume is accompanied by natural and minimalistic jewelry, reflecting the simplicity and elegance of Kerala. The dancer's hair is styled in a bun on the left side of the head, adorned with fresh jasmine flowers. The makeup is soft and enhances the dancer's natural expressions, with emphasis on the eyes to convey emotions effectively.

The Technical Aspects: Music, Mudras, and Expressions

Mohiniyattam follows the principles laid out in the Natya Shastra, an ancient treatise on performing arts. However, it also has its unique set of rules and features that distinguish it from other dance forms. The technical elements of Mohiniyattam are categorized into nritya (expressive dance), nritta (pure dance), and natya (dramatic representation). The dance emphasizes abhinaya, or expressive storytelling, where the dancer uses facial expressions, hand gestures, and body movements to communicate with the audience.

The music that accompanies Mohiniyattam is based on Sopana Sangeetham, a traditional style of singing in Kerala. The lyrics are typically in Malayalam or Sanskrit and are devotional in nature, focusing on themes of love, devotion, and spirituality. Instruments such as the edakka (a traditional drum), mridangam (double-sided drum), veena (string instrument), and flute are commonly used in Mohiniyattam performances.

Hand gestures or mudras are crucial in Mohiniyattam, as they help convey emotions and add depth to the narrative. The dance involves around 24 basic mudras, which the dancer skillfully uses to express feelings like joy, sorrow, anger, and devotion. Facial expressions and eye movements play an equally important role in portraying emotions and creating a connection with the audience.

Themes and Repertoire

The themes in Mohiniyattam often revolve around love and devotion, drawing inspiration from Hindu mythology and folklore. The stories are typically about the yearning for the divine, a beloved, or even a higher state of consciousness. In addition to mythological stories, Mohiniyattam also explores nature, where dancers depict the beauty of the land, the flora, and the fauna of Kerala.

The repertoire of Mohiniyattam has several sections, including Cholkettu (invocation), Padam (narrative dance), Varnam (thematic dance), and Tillana (a rhythmic conclusion). These elements come together in a carefully crafted sequence to create an immersive and engaging experience for the viewer.

Revival and Global Appeal

In the early 20th century, like many other traditional art forms in India, Mohiniyattam faced a period of decline due to socio-political changes and shifting cultural priorities. However, it saw a resurgence in the 1930s and 1940s, thanks to the efforts of artists, scholars, and cultural enthusiasts who recognized the importance of preserving this art form. Pioneering dancers like Kalamandalam Kalyanikutty Amma, who is considered the "Mother of Mohiniyattam," played a significant role in reviving and popularizing Mohiniyattam both in India and globally.

Today, Mohinyiattam has gained a dedicated following worldwide, with dancers and enthusiasts appreciating its elegance, expressive depth, and cultural significance. Dance institutions in India and abroad teach and promote Mohiniyattam, contributing to its preservation and evolution.

Mohiniyattam stands as a testament to the beauty of Kerala's cultural heritage. Through its graceful movements, soulful expressions, and deep spiritual connection, it continues to captivate audiences around the world. In an era of rapid modernization, Mohiniyattam remains a window into Kerala's rich history, traditions, and artistic sensibilities, embodying the power of dance to communicate, inspire, and enchant.