The rich Indian culture comprises of mainly two dance styles in the form of folk and classical/traditional. However, it is the Indian classical form of dance that when used can play a major role in education. There are many ways in which this style of traditional dancing can play a critical part in education. Indian Classical Dance forms have been a part of the age old education tradition. Kathakali, Kathak, Bharatnatyam, Odissi dance and many other folk and classical dance have been part of the guru-shishya tradition. So, here is explaining the manner in which an Indian Classical Dance form can play a major role in education.
a. The “spiritual” effect of Indian Classical Dance on an individual:
“Vibration of the body and mind” is the effect any Indian Classical Dance form exerts on an individual, provided it is learnt well. In fact, if a child undergoes proper training then he/she may also be able to connect with “God”. In other words, learning a classical form of Indian dance can be compared to Yoga i.e. a form of exercise that provides for a meditative state of mind.
b. Inculcation of “discipline and patience” by Indian Classical Dance at a young age in an individual:
“Discipline” a key ingredient to achieve success in life, is what any form of Indian Classical Dance enables an individual to develop. The fact that certain amount of time needs to be dedicated on a daily basis to master the dance style, is what helps an individual develop discipline. Since, acquiring mastery over any traditional Indian dance takes time and intense practice it also helps a child at a very young age develop patience.
c. Indian Classical Dance and its emphasis on “physical fitness” in a young individual:
“Body movement” is an integral part of any Indian Classical Dance form, and hence an individual undergoing training would need to focus on physical fitness. And so, if a child begins acquiring knowledge in any given traditional dance style at a very young age, it is obvious that he/she would able to maintain good physical health which would only benefit them as they grow older.
d. Indian Classical Dance and its close relation to “Expression of feelings”:
” An outlet to vent inner feelings” is what any Indian classical dance provides for. Now, since any traditional style of dance available in India basically involves narrating a “mythological” story using “music and dance”, expressing one’s self becomes a key component in this art form. And so, if learnt at an early age the classical form of Indian dance helps an individual express himself/herself better, and thereby infuse self confidence .
e. Indian Classical Dance and its close association to Hindu mythology:
“Hindu mythology” forms an integral part of any Indian Classical Dance performance. And so, if a young kid is trained in a traditional dance style, it enables him/her to gain knowledge regarding stories from great epics such as Mahabharata and Ramayana. Furthermore, it encourages a young child to dwell deeper and interpret mythological stories, and thereby help him/her acquire some invaluable insights of life.
f. The impact of “culture” on the Indian Classical Dance:
“A knowledge of a rich cultural heritage” is what an individual acquires when he/she learns any form of Indian Classical Dance. This is simply because a majority of the traditional dance styles in the country have been created using elements found within the rich cultural fabric of the society. And so, if a young child trains in any Indian traditional dance form it is obvious that he/she will develop a deep understanding about the rich cultural heritage that India as a country possesses.
And so, as can be seen, an Indian Classical Dance form when learnt for the right reasons and at the right time can play a major role in education within the Indian society.
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