Different styles of dance forms have always been much more than just a means of entertainment. Originating from culture and tradition, these dance forms always have spiritual and religious connections. These dance forms are not limited to being performed in an event such as IIGF. But they can also be performed on any occasion. These dance forms are associated with ritualistic representations and narratives from religious texts. In this blog, we plan to look into the religious facet of classical dance forms, understand the social relevance of religious dance, and put it into perspective of India’s biggest dance competition.

This blog seeks to identify the role of spirituality in contemporary classical dance as played out by dancers over the years. Interestingly, the spiritual and religious aspects of the classical dance forms remain, along with them being given a modern twist. Today’s choreographers and dancers use classical forms and blend them with new ideas and dancing methods. However, it is still significant to note that the spiritual aspect of the dance may be retained even in these modern forms.

Religious Connection To Classical Dance:

 Some of the traditional Indian dance forms include Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Odissi, Kuchipudi, and Kathakali with their origin in temples or religious rituals. During ancient times, these dances were not a way to pass the time or to display talent by practising dance moves; they were methods of revering a deity. Every twirl, turn, and facial/eye movement was inherent to telling stories from religious scriptures, thus, making these dance forms a tool of devotion. For instance, one of the oldest dance forms is the Bharatanatyam that evolved from the temples of Tamil Nadu. It was performed mainly by Devadasis, the temple dancers who were dedicated to the service of the deity. The dance was a ritual where the dancer was a god or goddess in representation, transmitting the divine through the feet and arm movements (mudras), and facial expressions (abhinaya). This form of dance is used in telling stories, particularly from the Hindu religious and cultural beliefs, with major emphasis on Gods and goddesses.

One of the other famous styles of classical dance is the Kathak which originated in Northern India. This dance form prevalent today has a history related to Indian mythology. This dance form made its debut and developed from the narrative art of the criers of the epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana. And the performers of this dance form are referred to as Kathakars. As time passed, Kathak became a part of both Hindu and Islamic culture prominently visible in the Mughal courts. Hinduism is closely tied to the spirituality of Kathak where stories are portrayed by the dancers in a deity-like manner.

Classical Dance in Contemporary International-Level Dance Competitions

In their development and diversification into other areas, classical dances still retained the core of their existence in spirituality and religion. This appearance-benefit relationship becomes even clearer at events such as the IIGF which demonstrates the depth and beauty of Indian classical dance to the world. People from different parts of the world enjoy such art, focusing on a combination of cultural, historical, and religious elements.

During international-level dance competitions, dancers perform dance pieces that contain some religious connotations. They may tell the story of a god/goddess, a religious ceremony or a parable from mythology. The dances have spiritual and cultural significance to the Zulu people and the judges can discern not only the physical execution of the dances but also the interpretation of the spiritual and cultural messages behind them. When applied to an Indian group dance competition, the intention and cohesiveness in presenting a religious or spiritual theme make it even more meaningful. The coordination of movements, the coordination of gestures, and the unity of purpose of the performers is believed to embody the divinity and the cosmic order, principles that are embraced deeply in Indian culture.

The Spiritual Experience for Performers and Audiences

For the dancers themselves, carrying out a classical dance performance is a spiritual experience. It is not just the physicality of these dance forms that demands extensive practice and training but also the mental and the emotional. Dancers conduct rehearsals where they have to put themselves into a trance and allow their inner selves to embody the role being depicted. It remains a feature inherent in most of the Indian classical dance styles where the performer becomes the one with the divine whenever he/she is dancing. The spiritual connection is not only between the two singers; the spectators are also enveloped in this sanctified sphere.

A well-executed classical dance performance is capable of eliciting the deepest feelings and taking you to another realm. These dances appeal to the visually aesthetic sense, elicit deep emotions from the audience, and contain spiritual themes and imagery that can reach the performers and the spectators beyond the earthly level. Show performances during the IIGF, which is an international-level event, add a new dimension to the spiritual aspect of Indian dance. The ability of a dancer to take beyond the mere execution and go for the transcendental or the divine is what separates the winner of India’s biggest dance competition.

For example, in the present day performances of the Bharatanatyam, though the structure and mudras may be for modern motifs, a metaphysical appeal to the dance form is still easily discernable. Although emotions embodied in contemporary issues may be incorporated in choreography, the dancers can retain the essential features of meditation and devotion. At international-level dance competitions like the IIGF, these contemporary interpretations are allowed alongside traditional performances. Both judges and viewers get inspired by the contemporary outlooks here while at the same time, the performers manage to keep the essence of the dance intact.

Conclusion: Classical dance: A spiritual tradition that continues from generation to generation

Such links are quite evident when it comes to spirituality in the classical dance forms. All of these dances originally stem from religious performances, and thus can still be regarded as a significant channel for people to convey their spirituality. Whether in the religious setting of the temple or in the secular stage of Dance of IIGF or any other Indian Group Dance Competition, classical dance is still an art of prayer, identity and ethnicity. While these dance forms evolve through time, the spiritual aspect continues to be present. As the dancers and choreographers move on to newer ideas, themes, and forms of presentation, the divine link, which forms the basis of classical dancing, continues to be present. This is the spiritual heritage because classical dance is not only one of many types of artistic performances. But it is also a religious phenomenon that still captivates millions of people around the globe. Therefore, it can be concluded that classical dance forms are not merely concerned with a stage show, but a path of spiritual life, a form of devotion and a way to reach God. Well, regardless of whether you are performing in India’s largest dance competition or dissecting a dance routine, the spiritualism in these dances is bound to be felt or seen visually. Initiatives like IIGF help in honouring and promoting these sacred traditions. So that the spiritual culture of classical dance also continues to flourish on the international front.