Mohiniattam
is a classical dance form of Kerala. Mohiniattam is derived from
the words "Mohini" (meaning beautiful women) and "attam"(meaning
dance). Thus, Mohiniattam dance form is a beautiful feminine style
with surging flow of body movements. Mohiniattam dance in Kerala
developed in the tradition of Devadasi system, which later grew
and developed a classical status.
Mohiniattam
maintains realistic make-up and simple dressing. The dancer are
attired in a beautiful white and gold bordered Kasavu saree of Kerala.
Mohiniattam like many other form, follows the Hastha Lakshandeepika,
as a text book for Mudras, or hand gestures. The style of vocal
music for Mohiniattam as is generally seen, is classical Carnatic.
The lyrics composed by Maharaja Swati Tirunal and Irayimman Thampi
are in Manipravala (a mixture of Sanskrit and Malayalam).