Source: Previous Question Papers

Read the passage and choose correct alternatives. What are the main schools of classical dancing? The four main schools of classical dancing in India are: Bharata Natyam, Kathakali, Manipuri, Kathak. Bharata Natyam is the oldest and most popular dance-form of India. Earlier, it was known by various names. Some called it Bharatam, some Natyam, some Desi Attam and some Sadir. The districts of Tanjore and Kanchipuram of Tamil Nadu were the focal points in the development of Bharata Natyam. It was danced as a solo performance by devadasis (temple dancers) on all auspicious occasions. Later, kings and rich people lent their patronage to it, and it started shedding its purely sacred character. The dancer is directed by the natuvanar, who is a musician and, invariably, a teacher. Another musician plays the cymbals. The music for Bharata Natyam is the Carnatic school of music. The mridangam (a drum), played on both sides with the hands, provides the rhythm. The home of Kathakali is Kerala. Kathakali literally means ‘story-play’. It combines music, dance, poetry, drama and mime. Its present form has evolved out of older forms such as Ramanattam and Krishnanattam.

Choose correct option which is mentioned in the passage. What is the oldest and most popular dance form of India?

Options

Option A

Kathakali

Option B

Manipuri

Option C is correct

Bharata Natyam

Option D

Kathak