Dance of the Celestial Temptress
Mohiniyattam depicts emotions in
ways, which are universally understood. Mohiniyattam falls within the soft, graceful
traditions of lasya,
the expression of the cosmic
feminine creativity. It is known for its graceful and sensuous movements.
Historically,
Mohiniyattam had been
restricted to the temple premises. In the beginning of the 20th century, the dance was
neglected and degenerated to the point of extinction.
Later
Mohiniyattam was given a new
lease of life by Swathi Thirunal Maharaja and it enjoyed royal patronage during his
time. |
