MOHINIYATTAM (from Andhra Pradesh, Kerala): it is said to be older than the Kathakali. Literally, the dance of the enchantress, the Mohiniyattam was executed in the Temple of Kerala. It is also heir to the Devadasi dance like Bharatanatyam, Kuchipudi and Odissi. Inspired by one of the characters from Hindu mythology, "Mohini", whose personality made her name synonymous with irresistible charm, means maiden who exerts desire or steals the heart of the viewer. This art somehow degenerated to eroticism to satisfy the epicurean life of some provincial satraps and landowners. It was the poet Vallathol who again revived this art form and gave it a status in modern times. The theme of Mohiniyattam is love and devotion to God. The hero is often Vishnu or Krishna. The dancer requires great talent as actress and sensitivity, because she must create an atmosphere of enchantment, where the eyes play an important role by its power of suggestion and allow express subtle emotions. The movements are graceful like Odissi and the costumes are sober and attractive. In its form it is similar to Bharatanatyam. The basic position of the feet is with toes out and separated 6 cm heels. There are 5 leg positions based on the level of knee flexion. It highlights the torso movement, running the steps with elegance, harmony and spontaneity. Essentially it is a solo dance, but today also executed in groups. As for the repertoire, after entry or presentasion, there are complicated and varied combinations of steps (jatiswaram), then merges pure and expressionist dance (varnam, central dance, with greater interest, complication and duration, where the dancer gives the best of herself), then tested the histrionic talent of the dancer (padam, dedicated to the expressive aspect), and her artistic technique (thillana, rich in movements that start mild and are accelerated to culminate in a glittering finish). Makeup is realistic and simple costumes. Dressed in short blouse and a beautiful Kasavu saree, white and bordered in gold, from Kerala.
