UGC-NET (NTA) Exam, Performing Arts, December – 2023

The terms 'Kasak Masak and Gatapalta' are used in Kathak, a classical dance form from North India. 'Kasak Masak' refers to the subtle, intricate movements of the wrists, while 'Gatapalta' refers to the transition from one character to another, often depicted through spins and movements.
These terms are integral to the technique and expressive vocabulary of Kathak, emphasizing both the grace and the dynamic footwork that characterize this dance form. Sattriya, Mohiniattam, and Odissi are other classical dances with their own unique terminologies and stylistic elements.

Dasavatara Sabdam and Manduka Sabdam are performed in Kuchipudi, a classical dance form from Andhra Pradesh. 'Dasavatara Sabdam' depicts the ten incarnations of Lord Vishnu, while 'Manduka Sabdam' involves the portrayal of a frog, showcasing the dancer's ability to embodý different characters and stories through expressive movements.
Koodiyattam, Koothu, and Kollattam are traditional dance forms from Kerala and Tamil Nadu, but these specific items are associated with Kuchipudi.

Bhagyachandra Maharaja, the king of. Manipur, wrote a manual on dance called the 'Govinda Sangita Lila Vilas'. This work is a significant contribution to the documentation and development of Manipuri dance, detailing various aspects of performance, technique, and the cultural context of this dance form.
Chandrakirti Maharaja and Churachand Maharaja were also rulers of Manipur, but they are not credited with writing this manual. Bhakti Siddhanta is a spiritual leader associated with the Gaudiya Vaishnavism tradition.

In Kalidasa's Natya 'Abhijyanashakuntalam', Priyamvada is a friend of Shakuntala, who provides support and companionship throughout the narrative. Yashomati, Vasantasena, and Vasavadatta are characters from other classical Indian literary works, not associated with 'Abhijyanashakuntalam'. Priyamvada's character helps highlight the themes of friendship and loyalty in the play.

'Suddha nrtta' as described by Abhinavagupta refers to abstract dance. It emphasizes pure dance movements that do not convey any specific story or emotion but focus on rhythm, form, and technical skill. This contrasts with expressive dance, which narrates a story or depicts emotions through gestures and facial expressions.
Abhinavagupta's works provide deep insights into the philosophy and aesthetics of Indian classical dance, distinguishing between pure dance (nrtta) and expressive dance (nritya).

The Devata Hasta, where 'Shikhara' is held in the left hand and the 'Kapittha' is held in the right and placed on the thigh, is called Rama. This specific hand gesture (hasta) is used in classical Indian dance forms to depict deities and their attributes. Each hasta has a specific meaning and context within the choreography, contributing to the rich symbolic language of the dance.

Mahankali Srimannarayana Murthy is the recipient of the 'Amrit Awards' 2023 in the realm of Kuchipudi. This award recognizes his significant contributions to the art form, including his performances, choreography, and efforts to promote and preserve Kuchipudi dance.
Lalita Srinivasan, Vilasini Devi, and Purnima Pande are also notable figures in Indian classical dance, but this specific accolade was awarded to Mahankali Srimannarayana Murthy.

Martha Graham choreographed both 'Frontier' and 'Lamentation'. 'Frontier' (1935) is a solo dance that symbolizes pioneering spirit and exploration, while 'Lamentation' (1930) is a solo piece that expresses grief and mourning through powerful, constricted movements. 'Incense and 'Serpentine Dance' are associated with other choreographers, and 'Revelation' is a work by Alvin Ailey, not Martha Graham.
Graham's innovative approach to modern dance has made her a central figure in the development of contemporary dance.

The Sylph is a character commonly found in Romantic ballet, representing an ethereal and otherworldly being, often associated with themes of love and unattainable beauty.
This character appears in iconic Romantic ballets such as "La Sylphide" and embodies the delicate, floating quality of Romantic ballet. Birthe, Hilda, and Diderik are not characters associated with Romantic ballet; they may be from other narratives or contexts.

'Ahuti' is the name of the recent production by Nrityagram in collaboration with the Chitrasena Dance Company. This production showcases a blend of Odissi dance from Nrityagram and the Kandyan dance tradition of the Chitrasena Dance Company from Sri Lanka.
It highlights the rich cultural exchange and artistic collaboration between these two renowned dance institutions. 'Amrit', 'Walking Naked', and 'Passage of Life' are other productions, but 'Ahuti' is the specific collaboration mentioned.