Little History About Bollywood Dance
Super energetic, colorful, and beautiful all around. This dance style called Bollywood is something to know more about. Here are some fun/interesting facts for you:
Traditional Bollywood Dance Comprises Several Styles
There are 8 styles of traditional Bollywood dancing:
- Bharatnatyam
- Kathak
- Kathakali
- Kuchipudi
- Manipuri
- Mohinattyam
- Odissi
- Sattriya
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Its Name Comes from the Film Industry and Hindi Culture
It originated in Bombay, India, which is now known as Mumbai. The mix of the words Bombay and Hollywood inspired the term “Bollywood.”
It Was Originally Only Known in Areas That Were Exposed to Indian Films
The Middle East, as well as Asian countries, were the ones that knew Bollywood from the start, the only ones that were exposed to it. However, it has gained an incredible amount of popularity in the last 5 to 10 years and is now known in Europe, the US, and pretty much all over the world.
Bollywood Is Dance with All Your Body
Bollywood dance steps and movements don’t require you to move just a few parts of your body. There are a lot of neck and head movements, hand movements, feet placements, facial expressions, and definitely a lot of ‘soul.’ Bollywood dancing makes you dance with your entire body.
Traditional Bollywood Dances Serve as a Type of Worship
Traditional Bollywood dances are often acted out in front of Hindu deities and typically take place during the harvest season.
It’s All About Story-Telling
Bollywood dance is meant to convey the story of the dance. As well as showing background on its cultural story, through the use of hands, feet, neck, and head, creating all those gestures and symbols.
No Bollywood Routine is Ready without a Costume
Bollywood costumes are full of color, and they are a must in any routine. Traditional Bollywood dancers use bells around their ankles, as well as elaborate jewelry. ✨
Bollywood of Today Has Many Influences
Back in the 1960s, Bollywood dancing was mainly influenced by folk dance but in the 70’s —once disco became a huge deal— disco was also a significant influence in this style. Over the years, Bollywood dancing has been influenced by fashion and other methods of music and interests.
Such a fresh and exciting style of dance. Have you tried Bollywood dancing yet?