Mohiniyattam is a classical dance form from Kerala, India. Believed to have originated in 16th century .
It is one of the eight Indian classical dance forms recognized by the Sangeet Natak Akademi.
It is considered a very graceful form of dance meant to be performed as solo recitals by women.
The word "Mohiniyattam" literally means "dance of the enchantress".
Devadasis used to perform this in temples. It also has elements of Koothu and Kottiyattom. Mohiniyattam is a drama in dance and verse.
Mohiniyattam was popularized as a popular dance form in the nineteenth century by Swathi Thirunal, the Maharaja of the state of Travancore.
The dance involves the swaying of broad hips and the gentle movements of erect posture from side to side. This is reminiscent of the swinging of the palm leaves and the gently flowing rivers which abound Kerala, the land of Mohiniyattam. There are approximately 40 basic movements, known as atavukal.
The costume includes white sari embroidered with bright golden brocade (known as kasavu) at the edges.
