Indian Classical Dance: The Renaissance and Beyond

Book Details

• Publisher: Niyogi Books

• Author: Leela Venkataraman

• Language: English

• Edition: First Edition

• ISBN: 9789383098644

• Pages: 336

• Binding: Hardcover

• Dimensions: 12.8 x 12.1 x 2.8 inches

About the Book

Indian Classical Dance: The Renaissance and Beyond explores the remarkable journey of Indian classical dance since India's independence. Leela Venkataraman expertly traces the evolution of the country's eight classical dance forms—Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Kuchipudi, Kathakali, Manipuri, Mohiniattam, Odissi, and Sattriya—by blending historical context with a contemporary viewpoint.

In this comprehensive work, Venkataraman examines the profound transformations that Indian classical dance underwent post-independence, shedding its temple and court associations to adapt to a rapidly changing society. From its pivotal role in the nationalist movement to reclaim India’s cultural identity, to its vibrant presence on the global stage today, the last six decades have seen significant shifts in the presentation and perception of these art forms. These shifts, both deliberate and accidental, reflect an ongoing transformation, where each new generation of dancers and musicians adds to the existing rich legacy of Indian classical dance.

Illustrated with beautiful images, the book delves into crucial aspects of dance, such as sponsorship, patronage, the teacher-disciple relationship, and the evolving dialectic of classical dance in the contemporary world. With its extensive coverage of all classical forms, this book is an essential read for dancers, dance historians, students, and teachers, as well as anyone interested in the richness of India’s cultural heritage.