What used to be a way of portraying Indian classical and folk music, dancing in Indian cinema has evolved to become a fusion of classical, regional, western pop, and funk style of dancing. Dancing, in particular to Bollywood music is a common practice for Indians not only in India, but also around the world. In addition, regional cinema industries such as Tollywood, Bhojwood, Ollywood, Pollywood, and Sandalwood, to name a few, are also of huge significance to Indians. Indians not only look up to their role models in the industry, they also revere them as Gods. It has a great influence on a day to day life of every Indian. Since its inception in early 1900s, Bollywood has evolved as one of the largest film industries of the world. This representation showcases the cultural diversity of India, and ensures its continuity.įor more detail and history on the most famous classical dances, check this video out:Īll in all, one of the reasons why Indians love to dance is because they are passionate about their heritage, and are true guardians of their traditional art and culture. At a national level, on the Republic Day of India, participants from all over the country perform in New Delhi, in the presence of top politicians and foreign dignitaries. Moreover, community centers, local art and culture groups, and dance schools, perform traditional and classical dances in festivals, ceremonies, and community events. Children at school are passionately taught and encouraged to participate in classical dance and music. To keep centuries old customs, mythology, traditions, and practices, significant in the modern world, Indians from all nooks and corners of the country proudly engage in classical and folk-dance activities. The tribal folklore over centuries have inspired various ethnic tribal legends, dances and music. Additionally, every state of India has their own folk-dance forms. Classical dance forms namely, Bharatanatyam, Odissi, Sattriya, Kathakali, Manipuri, Kathak, Kuchipudi, and Mohiniaattam are all originated from different states, signifying the ancient cultural and artistic depth of India. The diversity of India ensures that every ethnic and geographic region contributes towards the umbrella of different dance forms in the country. India is much like Europe when it comes to uniqueness in language, customs, traditions, and cultures. Guardians of Traditional Indian Art and Culture Indians dance for multiple reasons: to preserve the treasured culture and heritage, celebrate weddings, commemorate festivals, entertain by demonstrating their Bollywood dancing abilities, and for the sake of pure joy and happiness. It is an integral representation of the Indian culture. Across various states, and regions of India, dancing is a deep-rooted practice for every household. The history of dancing in India dates back to the ancient times. Nonetheless, let’s accept it! Indians love to dance. While some dance forms can be awe inspiring, others can be hilarious, and also confusing! You might think, how can someone pretending to change a light bulb, and shaking their legs at the same time, be indulged in a form of dancing? On the contrary, the formal Indian dancing is an ancient form of art that represents the broader spectrum of the Indian heritage. Indian dancing can be as extreme as everything else a tourist experiences in India. For a traveler visiting India, the locals’ love of music, and in particular dancing, will become evident very quickly.