Mohiniattam Dance Kerala

Over the last few years, the popularity of Mohini Attam has only seemed to be on the rise. As evident from the feminine word ‘mohini’, Mohini Attam is a feminice dance form. The unique feature of this classical dance form is the depiction of sensual and seductive themes in the performance. Practised and supported in the southern Indian state of Kerala, Mohini Attam has also become a major draw for tourists arriving in the state to experience cross country culture. Similar to other classical forms of dances, Mohini Attam too uses a special kind of costume, usually white or off-white in colour. The hairdo that the Mohini Attam dancer features closely resembles the style of a Keralite woman.

Mythological Background

What plays the pivotal role in a Mohini Attam performance is the myth of Mohini. According to the Hindu mythology, Brahma advises other gods about how they can receive ‘amrit’, celestial ambrosia believed to confer immortality and provide unmatched strength. Further, Lord Brahma suggests them that they can seek it by churning up the ocean of milk. Seeing the job so great, the gods seek demons’ help. Demons, on the other hand, secretly plan to deceive them in the end and have all the ‘amrit’ themselves.

After much labour, ‘amrit’ is rendered. However, the demons are busy making their plot to steal successful. To stop demons from finally getting the ‘amrit’ and misusing the power obtained from it, Vishnu comes to the rescue.

To make the demons’ plan futile, Vishnu turns himself into an ‘apsara’ (celestial nymph). Vishnu attempts to interrupt the demons by using the apsara’s charm. Vishnu becomes successful in his mission and thus the ‘amrit’ is saved from getting into wrong hands. Amrit is later handed over to gods and thus the danger by demons comes to an end.

Mohini Attam Technique

Meaning ‘dance of the enchantress’, Mohiniattam dance mainly uses the swaying movements of the upper body part. Legs stance closely looks like the ply-position. The eyes of the performer play a key role, adding a sensual touch to the whole performance. Movement of eyes complements body movements.

Musical Instruments

Like other forms of dance performances, Mohini Attam too is accompanied by music. The range of musical instruments used in the performance include Shuddha Madalam Mridangam, Manjira (Thalam), Vina, Violin, Kanjira, Surpeti, Venu and Tanpura.

Mohini Attam : classical or traditional?

Generally, people may call Mohin Attam as a classical art form. However, if we look at it closely, it becomes unjustifiable to call it a classical form of art rather than a traditional dance forms. A classical dance form has ancient historical roots. It has the capability to cross boundaries. Last but not the least, a classical dance form should be accepted and given patronage by the elite class. If we consider the last two standards, Mohini Attam fails to match up to. Apart from the fact that Mohini Attam too has an ancient history, it is yet to be widely acknowledged in the non-Keralite communities.