The history of Indian dance dates back thousands of years and is deeply rooted in the cultural and religious traditions of the Indian subcontinent. Indian dance forms are diverse, with each region having its own unique style and technique. Here is a brief overview of the history of Indian dance:



Ancient Period:

The earliest evidence of dance in India can be traced back to the archaeological discoveries in the Indus Valley Civilization, which existed around 2500 BCE. The seals found at various sites depict men and women in different dance postures.


Classical Period:

The classical dance forms of India, known as Natya Shastra, evolved during the medieval period. Bharatanatyam, a highly stylized dance form, originated in the temples of Tamil Nadu and is considered one of the oldest classical dance forms in India. Other major classical dance forms include Kathak from North India, Kathakali from Kerala, Odissi from Odisha, Manipuri from Manipur, and Kuchipudi from Andhra Pradesh.


Medieval Period:

During the medieval period, dance forms were patronized by the various ruling dynasties. The devadasi system emerged, in which young girls were dedicated to temples and trained in dance and music. These devadasis performed in temples and at royal courts and played a significant role in preserving and promoting classical dance forms.


Colonial Period:

The British colonial rule in India had a significant impact on Indian dance. Many traditional art forms faced suppression during this period, as the British considered them crude and immoral. However, some Indian artists, such as Rukmini Devi Arundale, worked towards reviving and popularizing classical dance forms. Rukmini Devi played a pivotal role in the revival of Bharatanatyam and established the Kalakshetra Foundation in Chennai.


Post-Independence:

After India gained independence in 1947, there was a renewed interest in promoting Indian culture and the arts. The Sangeet Natak Akademi, established in 1952, played a crucial role in preserving and promoting various dance forms. Several renowned dancers emerged during this period, including Uday Shankar, Balasaraswati, Birju Maharaj, and Kelucharan Mohapatra, who contributed significantly to the development of Indian dance.


Contemporary Era:

In recent years, Indian dance has evolved and adapted to changing times. While classical dance forms continue to thrive, there has been an emergence of innovative and experimental dance styles that blend traditional and contemporary elements. Contemporary Indian dance forms, such as contemporary Kathak, Bharatanatyam, and fusion dance, have gained popularity both in India and abroad.



Indian dance has become an integral part of cultural celebrations, festivals, and storytelling. It continues to evolve, with artists exploring new dimensions and pushing boundaries while staying rooted in the rich traditions and heritage of the past.