Dance Forms and Traditions

Shankha Hasta, or the 'conch shell' hand gesture, is formed by holding the hand in a fist with the thumb extended and the index finger pointing upwards. It is often used in Sattriya dance to represent the conch shell, a sacred symbol associated with Lord Vishnu.

Abhaya Hasta, also known as the 'protection' or 'assurance' hand gesture, is formed by extending the right hand with the palm facing outwards and the fingers pointing upwards. It is often used in Sattriya dance to convey a sense of safety, reassurance, and divine protection.

Chakra Hasta, or the 'discus' hand gesture, is formed by holding the hand in a fist with the thumb and index finger extended and the other fingers folded. It is often used in Sattriya dance to represent the discus, a divine weapon associated with Lord Vishnu.

Lasya is a body posture that embodies joy, grace, and celebration in Sattriya dance. It involves gentle and fluid movements, often accompanied by intricate footwork and hand gestures, creating a sense of exuberance and delight.

Gada Hasta, or the 'mace' hand gesture, is formed by holding the hand in a fist with the thumb extended and the other fingers folded. It is often used in Sattriya dance to represent the mace, a divine weapon associated with Lord Vishnu.

Srishti Hasta, also known as the 'creation' or 'manifestation' hand gesture, is formed by holding the hand in a fist with the thumb and index finger extended and the other fingers folded. It is often used in Sattriya dance to symbolize the act of creation and the emergence of new forms.

Khadga Hasta, or the 'sword' hand gesture, is formed by holding the hand in a fist with the thumb and index finger extended and the other fingers folded. It is often used in Sattriya dance to represent the sword, a divine weapon associated with Lord Shiva.

Karuna is a body posture that embodies sorrow, lamentation, and pathos in Sattriya dance. It involves slow and melancholic movements, often accompanied by expressive facial expressions and hand gestures, creating a sense of emotional depth and vulnerability.

Initiatives such as workshops and training programs, scholarships and grants, and public performances and competitions are being taken to promote Sattriya dance among women.

Mohiniyattam is a graceful folk dance from Kerala, known for its elegant movements, expressive eyes, and elaborate costumes, traditionally performed in temples and cultural events.

Odissi is a classical folk dance from Odisha, known for its intricate hand gestures, expressive eyes, and captivating storytelling, traditionally performed in temples and cultural festivals.

Kuchipudi is a classical folk dance from Andhra Pradesh, known for its elegant movements, expressive eyes, and captivating storytelling, traditionally performed in temples and cultural events.

Bharatanatyam is a classical folk dance from Tamil Nadu, known for its rhythmic beats, energetic movements, and colorful costumes, traditionally performed during festivals and cultural events.

Kathak is a classical folk dance from Uttar Pradesh, known for its graceful movements, intricate footwork, and expressive eyes, traditionally performed during festivals and cultural events.

Aakash Odedra Company is a contemporary Indian dance company founded by Aakash Odedra. The company is known for its innovative interpretations of traditional Indian mythology, often using contemporary dance techniques and multimedia elements.