Dances MCQ Quiz - Objective Question with Answer for Dances - Download Free PDF

The correct answer is Manipuri.

Key Points

• Manipuri is one of the six major classical dances of India. 
• Indigenous to Manipur, the most fascinating aspects of this dance form are its colourful decoration, lightness of dancing foot, the delicacy of abhinaya (drama), lilting music and poetic charm.
• This dance, also known as “Jogai”, displays the love between Radha-Krishna through Raaslila.
• The Manipuri dance form is categorized as Tandav or Lasya and incorporates significant movements of hands and upper body.
• Ghunghroos (Bells), which are worn in other dance forms, are not worn here.
• The different types of Manipuri dance styles are Tal Rasak, Danda Rasak and Mandal Rasak.
• Some of the most famous performers of this dance are Guru Bipin Sinha, Nirmala Mehta and Savita Mehta.

• Rabindranath Tagore performed the Manipuri dance in Santiniketan and brought back its fame.
• In the year 1919, it was decided by Rabindranath Tagore to include the Manipuri dance in the curriculum of Santiniketan.
• He took this decision after witnessing a dance performance in Sylhet.
• He requested the king of Tripura to send a Manipuri dance teacher and acknowledging his request he sent Rajkumar Buddhimanta Singh to Santiniketan.
• Also, Nileswar Mukherjee of Bhanugach joined Santiniketan as a Manipuri dance teacher.
• Debendranath Tagore, the grandson of Rabindranath Tagore's eldest brother, was in charge of the music department in the school of Rabindranath Tagore.

Additional Information

• T. Balasaraswati, in full Thanjavur Balasaraswati, (born May 13, 1918, Madras [now Chennai], India died February 9, 1984, Madras).
• She was an Indian dancer and singer in the Karnatak (South Indian) tradition.
• She was one of the 20th century’s foremost exponents of the Bharata Natyam style of classical dance.

The correct answer is Jammu and Kashmir.

• Dumhal is a famous folk dance of Jammu and Kashmir.

Key Points

• The Dumhal dance is the popular folk dance of Jammu and Kashmir.
• This dance is only performed by the men of the Wattal tribe of the region.
• It is presented on specific auspicious occasions in the tribe.
• The songs on which the dancers perform are folk songs that are sung by them in chorus.
• Rauf, Hikat, Mandjas, Kud Dandi Nach, and Damali are some other folk dances of Jammu and Kashmir

Additional Information

• Pandav Nritya, Bhotia Dance, and Cholia Dance are the folk dances of Uttarakhand.
• Saila Dance, Karma Dance, Sua Nacha, Pandavani, and Panthi Dance are the folk dances of Chhattisgarh.
• Jawara, Matki, Aada, Khada Nach, Phulpati and Grida Dance are the folk dances of Madhya Pradesh.

The correct answer is Goa.

 Key Points

• Kunbi dance is a tribal folk dance of the Kunbi community of Goa that portrays social themes.
• The dance is simple in its presentation and is performed during various social occasions.
• Kunbi (alternatively Kanbi) is a generic term applied to castes of traditionally non-elite farmers in Western India.

 Important Points

• Cheraw, Also referred to as bamboo dance is the major dance form of Mizoram.
• Lepcha is one of the famous folk dance of Sikkim.
• The Rouf is a folk dance form that is mainly practiced by the womenfolk of the Kashmir valley.

The correct answer is Tamil Nadu.

Key Points

• Bharatanatyam originated in Tamil Nadu.
• Bharatanatyam is the oldest Indian classical dance and it originated hundreds of years ago in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu.
• This dance form expresses the religious themes and spiritual ideas of South India.
• The ancient Tamil epic Silappatikaram contains the description of Bharatanatyam.
• The Sangeet Natak Akademi currently confers classical status on eight Indian classical dance styles: Bharatanatyam (Tamil Nadu), Kathak (North, West and Central India), Kathakali (Kerala), Kuchipudi (Andhra Pradesh), Odissi (Odissa), Manipuri (Manipur), Mohiniyattam (Kerala), and Sattriya (Assam). 

Additional Information

• The Indian States and Folk Dances
  • Andhra Pradesh- Kuchipudi, Bhamakalpam, Lambadi, Dhimsa, Kolattam, Butta Bommalu.
  • Assam- Bihu, Bichhua, Natpuja, Maharas, Kaligopal, Bagurumba, Naga dance, Khel Gopal, Tabal Chongli, Canoe, Jhumura Hobjanai
  • Bihar- Jata-Jatin, Bakho-Bakhain, Panwariya, Sama Chakwa, Bidesia.
  • Gujarat- Garba, Dandiya Ras, Tippani Juriun, Bhavai.
  • Haryana- Jhumar, Phag, Daph, Dhamal, Loor, Gugga, Khor, Gagor.
  • Himachal Pradesh- Jhora, Jhali, Chharhi, Dhaman, Chhapeli, Mahasu, Nati, Dangi.
  • Jammu and Kashmir- Rauf, Hikat, Mandjas, Kud Dandi Nach, Damali.
  • Karnataka- Yakshagan, Huttari, Suggi, Kunitha, Karga, Lambi.
  • Kerala- Kathakali (Classical), Ottamthullal, Mohiniattam, Kaikottikali.
  • Maharashtra- Lavani, Nakata, Koli, Lezim, Gafa, Dahikala Dasavtar or Bohada.
  • Odisha- Odissi (Classical), Savari, Ghumara, Painka, Munari, Chhau.
  • West Bengal- Kathi, Gambhira, Dhali, Jatra, Baul, Marasia, Mahal, Keertan.
  • Punjab- Bhangra, Giddha, Daff, Dhaman, Bhand, Naqual.
  • Rajasthan- Ghumar, Chakri, Ganagor, Jhulan Leela, Jhuma, Suisini, Ghapal, Kalbeliya.
  • Tamil Nadu- Bharatanatyam, Kumi, Kolattam, Kavadi.
  • Uttar Pradesh- Nautanki, Raslila, Kajri, Jhora, Chappeli, Jaita.
  • Uttarakhand- Garhwali, Kumayuni, Kajari, Jhora, Raslila, Chappeli.
  • Goa- Tarangamel, Koli, Dekhni, Fugdi, Shigmo, Ghode, Modni, Samayi nrutya, Jagar, Ranmale, Gonph, Tonnya mell.
  • Madhya Pradesh- Jawara, Matki, Aada, Khada Nach, Phulpati, Grida Dance, Selalarki, Selabhadoni, Maanch.
  • Chhattisgarh- Gaur Maria, Panthi, Raut Nacha, Pandwani, Vedamati, Kapalik, Bharthari Charit, Chandaini.
  • Jharkhand- Alkap, Karma Munda, Agni, Jhumar, Janani Jhumar, Mardana Jhumar, Paika, Phagua,Hunta Dance, Mundari Dance, Sarhul, Barao, Jhitka, Danga, Domkach, Ghora Naach.
  • Arunachal- Pradesh Buiya, Chalo, Wancho, Pasi Kongki, Ponung, Popir, Bardo Chham.
  • Manipur- Dol Cholam, Thang Ta, Lai Haraoba, Pung Cholom, Khamba Thaibi, Nupa Dance, Raslila, Khubak Ishei, Lhou Sha.
  • Meghalaya- Ka Shad Suk Mynsiem, Nongkrem, Laho.
  • Mizoram- Cheraw Dance, Khuallam, Chailam, Sawlakin, Chawnglaizawn, Zangtalam, Par Lam, Sarlamkai/Solakia, Tlanglam, Bamboo Dance.
  • Nagaland- Modse, Agurshikukula, Butterfly Dance, Aaluyattu, Sadal Kekai, Changai Dance, Kuki Dance, Leshalaptu, Khamba Lim, Mayur Dance, Monyoasho, Rengma, Seecha and Kukui Kucho, Shankai and Moyashai.
  • Tripura- Hojagiri.
  • Sikkim- Chu Faat Dance, Sikmari, Singhi Chaam or the Snow Lion Dance, Yak Chaam, Denzong Gnenha, Tashi Yangku Dance, Khukuri Naach, Chutkey Naach, Maruni Dance.
  • Telangana- Dappu Nrityam or Dappu Dance, Lambadi, Perini Sivatandavam, Gusadi and Mayuri.

The correct answer is Nati.

Key Points

• In 2015, UNESCO recognized Nati as an Intangible Cultural Heritage of Himachal Pradesh.
• Nati is a traditional folk dance performed predominantly during local festivals and fairs in the Kullu, Shimla, Sirmaur, and Kinnaur regions of Himachal Pradesh.
• This dance form is characterized by its unique circular movements and the synchronization of steps performed by both men and women in traditional attire.
• Nati holds cultural significance as it showcases the rich heritage and communal harmony of the Himachali people.
• The recognition by UNESCO aims to preserve and promote this traditional dance form on a global platform.

Additional Information

• Intangible Cultural Heritage:
  • Intangible Cultural Heritage (ICH) refers to practices, representations, expressions, knowledge, and skills that communities recognize as part of their cultural heritage.
  • ICH includes oral traditions, performing arts, social practices, rituals, festive events, and traditional craftsmanship.
  • UNESCO’s recognition helps in safeguarding and promoting these cultural elements for future generations.
• UNESCO:
  • The United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations aimed at promoting world peace and security through international cooperation in education, the sciences, and culture.
  • UNESCO's Intangible Cultural Heritage list helps to raise awareness and appreciation of cultural practices and traditions globally.
• Traditional Attire in Himachali Dance:
  • Participants of Nati wear traditional Himachali attire which includes items such as chola (a type of tunic), dohru (a long scarf), and topi (a cap).
  • The colorful and vibrant costumes add to the visual appeal and cultural authenticity of the dance.
• Other Himachali Folk Dances:
  • Himachal Pradesh is home to various other folk dances like Kayang, Chhambha, and Jhoori, each with its own unique style and cultural significance.
  • These dances are performed during different festivals and celebrations, reflecting the state's rich cultural diversity.

The correct answer is Madhya Pradesh.

• The 'Matki' dance form has been developed by nomadic tribes in Madhya Pradesh.
• Performed using a “small pitcher” is a folk dance originating from central India known as the “Matki Dance”.
  • This “pitcher dance” belongs to the state of Madhya Pradesh, and is mainly performed in the Malwa region.

Important Points

The Correct Answer is Kerala.

• Mohiniyattam literally interpreted as the dance of ‘Mohini’, the celestial enchantress of Hindu mythology, is the classical solo dance form of Kerala.

Key Points

• References to Mohiniyattam can be found in the texts Vyavaharamala written in 1709 by Mazhamagalam Narayanan Namputiri and in Ghoshayatra, written later by poet Kunjan Nambiar.
• It has elements of Bharatanatyam (grace & elegance) and Kathakali (vigor) but is more erotic, lyrical, and delicate.
• Mohiniyattam is characterized by graceful, swaying body movements with no abrupt jerks or sudden leaps.
• It belongs to the lasya style which is feminine, tender, and graceful.
• The movements are emphasized by the glides and the up and down movement on toes, like the waves of the sea and the swaying of the coconut, palm trees, and paddy fields.
• Realistic make-up and simple dressing (in Kasavu saree of Kerala) are used.

Additional Information

8 classical dance forms of India

The correct answer is Odissi.

Key Points

• Odissi is one of the 8 classical dances of India recognized by the Sangeet Natak Academy.
• Odissi is a major ancient classical dance that originated in the Indian state of Orissa.
• The famous dancers of Odissi are -
  • Sujata Mohapatra, Kelucharan Mohapatra, Ratikant Mohapatra, Gangadhar Pradhan, etc.
• Kelucharan Mohapatra is the first person to receive the Padma Vibhusan from Orissa.

Additional Information

The correct answer is Manipur.

Key Points

Additional Information

• Manipur:
  • Capital: Imphal
  • Governor: Anusuiya Uikey
  • Chief Minister: N. Biren Singh
  • Keibul Lamjao National Park is a national park in the Bishnupur district of the state of Manipur in India. 
    • It is the only floating park in the world, located in North East India, and an integral part of Loktak Lake

• Manipur’s martial art form ‘Thang-Ta’ to feature at Khelo India 2021. 
• Gatka from Punjab, Kalaripayattu of Kerala and Mallakhamba, a well-known sport played in Madhya Pradesh and Maharashtra will also be part of the Games.

The correct option is 1 i.e. Maharashtra.

Key Points

• Lavani is a folk dance form of Maharashtra.
• It is performed on the beats of Dholki.
• Nakata, Koli, Lezim, Gafa, Dahikala Dasavtar are some more folk dances of Maharashtra.

Additional Information

The correct answer is Kerala.

• Ottamthullal is an art form performed only in Kerala.
• The meaning of Ottamthullal is 'poor man's Kathakali'.
• Kunchan Nambiar created this dance form, as an alternative to the Chakyar koothu.
• To protest against the prevalent socio-political structure and prejudices of the society, Kunchan Nambiar used it as a medium.
• Now it is a famous folk art presented in the temples of Kerala.
• Some other dance forms of Kerala:
  • Theyyam
  • Thiruvathirakali
  • Chakyar Koothu
  • Koodiyattam
  • Kathakali(Classical)
  • Mohiniattam(Classical).

The correct answer is Andhra Pradesh.

Key Points

• The Kuchipudi dance originated in Andhra Pradesh.
• It is one of the major forms of Indian classical dance.
• It originated in the Indian state of Andhra Pradesh, a village called Kuchipudi.
• It is a dance-drama performance that has its roots in the ancient Hindu Sanskrit text of Natya Shastra.
• It evolved like all major classical dances of India as a religious art linked to travelling bards, temples, and spiritual beliefs.
• Mridangam, cymbals, veena, flute, and tambura are the traditional musical instruments in Kuchipudi.

Additional Information

The correct answer is Mahapurusha Sankaradeva.

Key Points

• Sattriya dance
  • Satriya Nritya is the classical dance form of Assam which represents the Satriya culture, the basis of the religious and cultural fabric of Assam.
    • It is a dance-drama performance art with origins in the Krishna-centered Vaishnavism monasteries of Assam and attributed to the 15th-century Bhakti movement scholar and saint Mahapurush Srimanta Sankardev.
    • Dance historian Dr. Sunil Kothari has recently been bestowed with the Madhabdev Award by the Government of Assam for popularising Sattriya dance.
    • Sattriya was given the status of classical dance in the year 2000 by the Sangeet Natak Akademi.

Additional Information

The correct answer is Jharkhand.Key Points 

• ‘Paika’ is a traditional dance form associated with Jharkhand.
• Paika dance is mainly performed by the Munda community.
• Paikas were a group of soldiers who sacrificed their lives for the safety of the kingdom.
• This dance form represents the great war of the Munda community against the British.
• In this dance form, martial arts are mixed with some other dance steps.
• It is only performed by the male members of the community.

Additional Information

• Other important dance forms of Jharkhand are:
  • Domkach
  • Mardana Jhumair.
  • Janani Jhumair.
  • Jhumta
  • Lahasua.
  • Fagua.
  • Chhau.
  • Santali
• Important dance forms of Madhya Pradesh are:
  • Grida Dance.
  • Matki.
  • Jawara.
  • Khada Nach.
  • Selalarki.
• Important dance forms of Uttarakhand are:
  • Langvir Nritya
  • Jhora.
  • Raslila.
• Important dance forms of Sikkim are:
  • Singhi Chaam.
  • Denzong Gnenha.
  • Tashi Yangku.
  • Chu Faat.
  • Yak Chaam.

The correct answer is Mizoram.

Key Points

• Cheraw dance
  • Cheraw is one of the traditional and oldest dances of Mizoram. It is also recognized as the oldest dance form of Mizoram.
  • It is also known as the Bamboo dance.
  • Chewar is performed by six to eight people holding a pair of bamboo staves on another horizontally placed bamboo at the ground on special occasions such as when there is a bumper harvest of a crop. Gongs and drums are used as musical instruments in Cheraw dance.
  • It is one of the most famous dances in Mizoram, and a centre of attraction during festive occasions.
  • khuallam, Sarlamkai, Chheihlam and Mizo are other Traditional Dances of Mizoram.

Additional Information

• Mizoram
  • Capital - Aizawl
  • Chief Minister - Lalduhawma
  • Governor - Ajay Kumar Bhalla
  • State Bird - Vavu
  • State Animal - Saza
  • State Tree - Herhse
  • State Flower - Senhri
  • National Parks - Murlen National Park, Phawngpui Blue Mountain National Park.