THE ROLE AND POSITION OF CLASSICAL DANCE IN MODERN INDIA

1. Chapter-6
THE ROLE AND POSITION OF CLASSICAL
DANCE IN MODERN INDIA
In the process of modernization, which India has been
experiencing since the beginning of the last century, almost all socio-
cultural spheres have got affected. This also applies to the leisure
activities and different arts in society. As people change their lifestyle,
their tastes and likings also get changed. In such a situation various
major transformations take place in the field of creative vision or in
different arts of society. Since the present study is devoted to the
performing art of dance, the major changes that have appeared in this
field have been studied. In the previous chapters the situations in
ancient, medieval and pre-independent India regarding dance have
been discussed. The present chapter deals with the situation in post
independent India. The main aim of this chapter is to understand the
present position of classical dance in Indian society. The various
aspects regarding dance related situation have been analysed in this
chapter with the help of empirical data. Such aspects include various
minor and major issues that show the recent and changing trends in
society regarding the field of classical dance in India. These aspects
are as follows.
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2. 1. The socio- economic background of the respondents.
2. Their individual interests that motivated them to learn dance.
3. Their views about classical dance.
4. Relationship between classical and popular dance.
5. Benefits of dance in personal life.
6. Present and future of classical dance and dance artists.
Some of such aspects that are related to dance in ancient India
have been studied in earlier chapters of the present study. This chapter
mainly deals with the present situation of classical dance in India.
Section -1
The Socio-Economic background of the Respondents
The socio-economic background of the person plays an important
role in moulding one's own life, more so in the case of the persons
choosing any vocation. Individual's personal and family background
such as age, sex, religion, caste, educational qualifications, marital
status and family pattern generally influence a person's choice or
preferences for vocation or a career. The choice of a vocation or a
career is largely determined by the person's perception of the career,
mental attitude to undertake specific type of a career, willingness to
face the challenges posed by the chosen field and to undergo physical
exertion and readiness to adjust to the social environment. These
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3. mental and physical requirements of any profession play a crucial role
in its choice.
In the case of dance artists, these factors assume even greater
significance because of the specific characteristics of this profession
and its distinctive requirements. The socio-economic background of
the respondents helped to know the present situation regarding dance
such as, the class of artists, their castes, religion, educational
qualifications, etc. These factors are of very much significance while
studying the transformations in dance related situation because the
analysis of social strata of the upcoming artist gives a clear picture
about such issues. Accordingly, the socio-economic background of the
respondent upcoming dancers is highlighted below with reference to
such aspects as:
1. Age composition
2. Religion wise distribution
3. Caste composition
4. Educational qualification
5. Marital status
6. Economic status of family
7. Individual economic status
8. Family pattern.
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4. Age Composition of the Respondents:
While collecting data about Kathak dance artists in Pune, those
who have completed their basic training in Kathak and are trying to
make their careers in this field, were chosen as respondents. The
survey was confined to dance artists who have fulfilled these
conditions as it was assumed that such respondents would have
developed perceptions to judge - by their experience - the situation
regarding dace and the status of dance and dance artists in society,
impact of popular dance on classical dance and its reasons and
consequences, the present and future of classical dance and views of
society towards dance artists and towards women dancers in 2 r '
century etc. These respondents are all upcoming artists who are trying
to make their career in this field. Some of them have already achieved
some recognition in this field. Such artists belong to the age group of
18 to 35 years. The frequency distribufion of 75 respondents by their
age group is shown in table No. 6.1.1:
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5. Table No. 6.1.1
Distribution of Respondents by Age Group
AGE GROUP
(IN YEARS)
Below 18
18 to 21
22 to 24
25 to 27
28 to 29
30 to 32
33 to 35
Above 35
Total
NO. OF
RESPONDENTS
—
6
15
22
10
11
7
4
75
PERCENTAGE
—
08.00 %
20.00 %
29.33 %
13.33%
14.66%
09.33 %
05.33 %
100.00 %
A glance at the table makes it clear that a maximum number of the
respondents belong to the age group of 25 to 27 that is 29.33 %>. 20 %
respondents belong to the age group of 22 to 24. It shows that total 70
%
) respondents have reached to this stage before 30 years of their age.
No respondent belongs to the first age group. It seems that it is
difficult to achieve certain position in this field below 18 years of age
as this profession requires prolonged training, hard work and
devotion.
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6. Only 5.33 % respondents belong to the last age group. It seems
that those who are still learning dance in this age group may not wish
to make a career in this field, as it may be difficult.
It is clear that the respondents who are trying to make a career or
who have already achieved certain position in this field mainly belong
to the age group of 22-27. The respondents who belonged to the age
group of above 30 are mainly the professional artists; they have
already reached at a certain level in this field. However still they
assume themselves as students or upcoming artists out of the feelings
of devotion and gratitude for their Guru.
Religion of the Respondents:
Classical dance in India has a long history. We have seen in the
earlier chapters that it is having religious connotations or significance
from the beginning. As we have seen in previous chapters, Kathak
dance has been originated and developed in Hindu temples. This
underlies its religious importance. Later it was influenced by Muslim
culture. From temples it shifted to the courts of the Muslim Emperors
and under their patronage dance was nurtured and flourished for
several years. Even today we can easily find the Muslim impact on
Kathak dance in its many aspects such as costumes, some technical
terms, jewellery used by dancers at the time of performance,
instruments used and even some contents in Kathak dance.
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7. Thus it becomes important and even necessary to find out the
religion wise composition of today's Kathak artists.
Table No. 6.1.2
Religion Wise Distribution of the Respondents
RELIGION
Hindu
Muslims
Others
Total
NO. OF RESPONDENTS
75
—
—
75
PERCENTAGE
100.00%
—
—
100.00 %
In so far as religion is concerned, it was observed that all the
respondents were Hindus. The predominance of Hindu respondents
can be explained by the fact that the respondents were mainly selected
from Pune City. In Pune the population of Hindus is more. According
to census report in 1991, total population of Pune District was
4164500 and Hindus were 3541100 (82.90 %). However the overall
picture of Kathak artist also reveals that there is predominance of
Hindu dance artists in the field of Kathak. Almost all renowned
Kathak artists in Pune belong to Hindu religion.
It can be said that the Muslim impact on Kathak dance is still
visible. However Muslim girls are not engaged in this profession. It
may be because of the fact that even when the Muslim emperors were
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8. the patrons of the art, the Muslim dancers at that time did not enjoy
social recognition. They were ill famed. This may be the reason that
even when dance has got its dignity back due to the efforts made by
some pioneers and when dignified people started taking interest in it,
Muslim families did not allow their family members to choose this
field as a career. One more reason may be responsible for this fact that
in Pune and even in other parts of India almost all renowned Gurus
and Kathak dance artists are Hindus. This may be the reason of
majority of Hindu upcoming dance artists.
Caste Wise Distribution of the Respondents:
The caste system has divided Indian society in to different strata
based on occupations and other factors. Due to a close association
between caste and occupation in Indian society, one has to take into
consideration caste wise distribution of the respondents while
analyzing their socio-economic background. Without knowing a caste
affiliation the socio economic background of the respondents remains
incomplete.
Traditionally Indian society was fully controlled by the caste
system. Different castes had their monopolies in certain occupations.
Kathak was not a monopoly of any particular caste. Kathakas were
Gaur Brahmins, Kanujia and Saraswat Brahmins. As we have seen
before even some tribes were involved in this art, such as, Bachal,
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9. Bais, Bargujar, Chhatri, Dhobi, Surajbansi, Saruaria, etc. Initially
when it had religious importance there must have been the
predominance of some of the dominant castes in this profession but
with the declining status of the artists, lower caste people must have
entered into profession. However the present situation is totally
changed. Table No. 6.1.3 helps us to understand the present situation
about the castes of classical dancers.
Table No. 6.1.3
Caste wise distribution of the Respondents
Caste
Brahmin
Gujrati
Sonar
C. K. P.
Total
No. Of Respondents
68
4
2
1
75
Percentage
90.66 %
05.33 %
02.66 %
01.33%
100.00 %
Table No. 6.1.3 clearly shows that there is predominance of higher
castes, especially Brahmins among the respondents. These days the
situation has been changed. 68 out of 75 respondents belonged to the
Brahmin caste that is almost 90.66 %. 4 respondents belonged to a
Gujrati community that is 5.33 %. Another 2 respondents were Sonar
(2.66 %) and 1 belonged to the C. K. P. caste that is 1.33%.
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10. This data clearly shows the predominance of Brahmins in this
field in the present situation. Rather it can be said that the Brahmins
are establishing their monopoly in the field of the classical dances
especially on Kathak dance. It seems that other castes are lagging
behind in this field.
Though the Marathas belong to higher caste, and although it is
considered as a dominant caste in Maharashtra, not even a single
respondent in the present survey belongs to this caste.
Following reasons may be responsible for the present caste wise
structure of respondents.
1. It seems that in Brahmin Families girls have more freedom, to go
out of the house and make a career in desired profession.
2. Maratha community may be still conservative about such
professions that they do not allow their daughters to make a career
in such fields.
3. The training schools of Kathak dance are mostly located in urban
areas where Brahmins are numerically predominant. Moreover
they are more progressive in their cultural outlook.
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11. Educational Qualifications of the Respondents!
Modem society has given much more importance to formal,
academic education. It has been assumed that whatever may be the
profession a person should be at least a degree holder. This is the
basic requirement of any career or profession in modem society.
Hence the educational qualification of the respondents of the present
study should be taken into consideration in order to understand
present position of dance and dance artists.
Table No. 6.1.4
Distribution of Respondents by Their Educational Qualification
Qualification
Under Graduate
Graduate
Post Graduate
Post Graduation in Dance
Other
Total
No. Of Respondents
7
37
8
8
15
75
Percentage
09.33 %
49.33 %
10.86 %
10.86%
20.00 %
100.00 %
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12. Table No. 6.1.4 indicates that the dance artists of younger
generation are well educated. Even though a person does not need any
academic qualification for being a dancer 9.33 % that is 7 respondents
are doing their graduation. 37 respondents are degree holders and they
constitute 49.33 % of the total respondents, and some of them are
engaged in doing their Post-Graduation, while 8 respondents have
completed their post graduation. The most striking fact is 8
respondents that are 10.86 % of the total respondents have done their
post graduation in dance in Pune University. 15 respondents that is 20
% replied that they have completed their education in some other
fields like Diploma in Interior Decoration or Computer Applications
etc.
Thus it can be concluded that the younger generation of classical
dance artists is well educated even though such academic and formal
education is not necessary for their profession. Such well-educated
and qualified artist are eligible to develop dance and make some new
innovations in this field, for example, fusions of various dance styles
or new experiments without damaging its traditional pattern or by
developing some techniques in dance, they could lessen the impact of
popular dance. The art of performing dance has now become an elite
art. Those who are performers of the art as well as those who are its
fans generally belong to higher socio economic bracket. The
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13. commoners have not as yet developed interest in it. It has become an
art of classes and not of masses.
Marital Status:
Socio economic background would remain incomplete with out
the analysis of marital status of respondents. Marital status of the
respondents is given in table No. 6.1.5
Table No. 6.1.5
Distribution of Respondents by their Marital Status
Marital Status
Married
Unmarried
Total
No. Of Respondents
30
45
75
Percentage
40.00 %
60.00 %
100.00%
Among the total respondents 40 % respondents were married and
rest 60 % were unmarried as they are still younger. Not even a single
respondent said that she doesn't want to get married for the sake of
her career.
After analyzing the statistics regarding this question it can be said
that in Indian society still marriage is considered very important for a
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14. girl. Thus every respondent wished to get married. It seems that
marriage doesn't affect their professional career to a great extent.
Today many renowned women dancers in Pune are married. It may
due to the fact that they all belong to well educated families in urban
areas where the attitude of people towards classical dance has been
changed. There may be some limitations but it seems that marriage
doesn't totally affect their career. However some respondents were
not very sure about this. Some expressed their hidden feelings during
the discussions that still there are some people who are not much in
favour of making a career in this field. Some people may like
watching classical dance or they may not against it but they may not
allow their daughter in law to make such a career. It may create some
problems for a girl dancer after marriage.
Economic Background of the Respondents:
Economic background plays an important role in one's
professional life. Thus the economic background of the respondents
has to be taken into consideration. Individual's economic status or
position affects his / her professional life. Individual's choice of
selecting a profession, aspirations, capacity, attitudes, performance in
work, all these factors are related to economic background.
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15. Learning any classical art and making a career in it has apparently
become a monopoly of a particular group or community may be caste,
class and gender. Initially dancing was the monopoly of some castes
then it has lost its status and became the thing to be done by some
particular communities or groups. After some years only Devadasis
and women of ill fame started doing it and in 20"^ century as classical
dance regained its status due to the efforts made by some renowned
dancers, middle and upper class people started taking interest in it.
And now it has almost become a monopoly of these classes. Today
dance education has become very expensive and that is why the girls
who belong to middle and upper classes can only afford to make a
career in this field. Some middle class girls also learn classical dance
but they have some limitations. Present survey also reveals the similar
facts. Some respondents have noted that learning classical dance is an
expensive affair. Sometimes it becomes very difficult to manage it
unless there is adequate financial support. Tuition fees of classical
dance teacher are high as well as the training period is also too long.
Dance examinations, dance performances etc. are also very expensive
tasks. That is why dance artists especially upcoming artists require a
sound financial support, which is not always possible. Expenses of
auditorium charges, charges of accompanying musicians, costume,
jewellery, advertisement, chief guests' honorarium and conveyance,
all these things are necessary but very costly. Even to appear for any
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16. higher examination in this field an artist needs some financial
provision. In such circumstances it helps, if they are self-sufficient.
All the respondents are either trying to be professional dancers or
some of them have already achieved certain position in this field or
some of them have just started earning with the help of dance.
Table No. 6.1.6
Distribution of Respondents by Their Annual Individual Income
Annual Individual Income
(In Rupees)
Nil
Below 50,000
50,000- 1,00,000
More Than 1,00,000
Total
No. Of Respondents
13
17
15
30
75
Percentage
17.33%
22.66 %
20.00 %
40.00 %
100.00 %
Table No. 6.1.6 reveals that sfill 17.33 % respondents are not
earning. This is possible because they have not yet started teaching
dance or are not yet able to perform their art professionally since have
not acquired the level of proficiency in the art that is required. But
many of them believe that soon they will be able to earn. 20 %
respondents come into the second category that is income below Rs.
50,000 per year. Most of them belong to the age group of 20-25, and
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17. they are sure about the growth in their income in coming years. Other
20% respondents reported themselves in the income group of Rs.
50,000-1, 00,000 per year. And rest 30 respondents belong to the last
income group of earning more than Rs. 1, 00,000 per year.
Though majority of the respondents are earning less than rupees 1
lakh per year at present, they all are hopeful that their income will
increase in the near future. The reason for their low income at present
may be that they all are upcoming artists. However it seems that it is
not easy to earn more money in the initial stage of their career.
In addition to their individual income, respondents' family
background helps to comprehend the clear picture about the socio
economic class of the respondents'. That is why the information about
the same is also collected.
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18. Annual Family Income:
Table No. 6.1.7
Distribution of the Respondents by Their Annual Family Income
in Rupees
Income Group
(In Rupees)
Less Than 2 Lakh
2 Lakh to 4 Lakh
4 Lakh to 6 Lakh
More Than That
Total
No. Of Respondents
3
12
23
37
75
Percentage
04.00 %
16.00%
30.66 %
49.33 %
100.00 %
The data in the table shows the economic background of the
respondents. As said earlier learning classical dance is an expensive
task. To reach up to the stage of Visharad that is the degree level, a
student has to learn dance for minimum 9 to 10 years, and if a student
wants to make a career in this field he or she has to learn for more
years. It's a kind of devotion. At present 10 to 12 years training
requires a minimum of Rs. 25,000-30,000 to be paid as fees to a dance
teacher. Now a days it can be extended to Rs. 50,000 also. Other
necessary expenses are not included in this amount. For example,
accompanying musicians' charges, costumes, make-up, musical
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19. instruments, workshop fees, entry fees of various dance programs of
other dance artists which an upcoming artist has to attend if one has to
make a career in this field. These are some inevitable expenses.
Hence, it can be said that it is very difficult to make a career in
this field for an individual who belongs to a lower economic strata. It
is difficuh but not impossible for middle class students. Thus it seems
that in modem days people belong to economically higher middle
class or upper classes have their predominance in this field.
The data reveals that only 4 % respondents belong to the income
group of less than Rs. two lakh per year. 16 % respondents pose
themselves in the income group of Rs. 2 to 4 lakh per year. 30.66 %
come in to the income group of Rs. 4 to 6 lakh per year. And majority
that is 49.33 % respondents belong to the last income group of more
than Rs. 6 lakh per year.
The present data reveals that almost half of the respondents belong
to the higher economic strata and may be some of them belong to the
higher class. Slowly classical dance is becoming a monopoly of
economically sound, educated and elite class.
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20. Type of Family:
As a stigma was attached to this profession in the past, becoming a
dance artist is not only a matter of personal choice rather the consent
of family members becomes important factor. In this matter it
becomes significant to find out the type of families of the respondents.
Table No. 6.1.8
Distribution of Respondents by Their Family Type
Type of Family
Joint Family
Nuclear Family
Total
No. Of Respondents
7
68
75
Percentage
09.33 %
90.66 %
100.00
%
The present table shows that 90.66 % respondents belong to the
nuclear family and only 9.33 % respondents belong to the joint
family. This may be due to the fact that the present survey was
conducted in Pune City and in cities predominant family type is that
of the nuclear family. Though 9.33 % respondents are from joint
families, these are definitely not typical traditional joint families. It
seems that the setting of traditional middle and higher middle class
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21. joint families may not be in favour of this profession, due to which
most of the upcoming dance artists are from nuclear families.
It clearly reveals the fact that still the family plays an important
role in ones professional life. Family guides individual's choice of
selection of the profession.
Section - 2
Extra Curricular Activities
One of the most important determinants of individual's
professional life or career is his or her extra curricular activities.
Individual interests, choices, likings, etc. play an important role in an
individual's life. These interests help individuals to choose their
career. His or her hobbies and leisure time activities help him to
determine the profession. Even these activities help individual to
develop the skills that are required for a desired profession. In the
present study an attempt is made to know the extra curricular
activities of the respondents other than dance, such as drawing,
writing, travelling, reading etc. as it must have been helpful to them in
developing their skills that are required to be a classical dance artist. It
also helped to disclose the recent trends in society regarding the
present subject. We have already seen that most of the respondents
belong to middle and upper classes. That is why it can be said that it
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22. has become one of the pre requisites of this profession to have a sound
economic background. Then the question arises what may be other
requirements or recommended qualities that are essential for making a
career in this particular field? This quest also helped the present
researcher to find out the growing consciousness of people about this
field. Rather it helped to know the attitude and awareness of people
about dance and career of their daughters in this field. Following table
helps us to know about this.
Table No. 6.2.1
Respondents' Hobbies and Participation in Extra Curricular
Activities
Activity
Debate
Writing
Travelling
Reading
Drawing And Painting
No. Of Respondents
9
7
65
30
46
Percentage
12.00%
09.33 %
86.66 %
40.00 %
61.33%
A Multi Response Table
A profile of extra curricular activities of the respondents during
their period of educafion is set out in the table No. 6.2.1.
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23. The survey discloses that respondents take interest in several extra
curricular activities, some intellectual and some general. An analysis
of these activities showed that about 61.33 % of respondents
expressed their interest in drawing and painting as their favorite
activity. No doubt there is certain relationship between drawing and
dance. Knowledge about geometry, colour combinations and its
effects, definitely help a dancer. Dance performances, setting
choreographies and formations, and some other matters such as light
effects, make up, drapery etc. requires the knowledge of drawing and
painting to some extent. 12 % respondents have shown their interest in
debate. Any artist should have a good presence of mind and he must
be intelligent enough to present his art before the audience. If a dancer
is able to talk to the audience and to explain his art to them, it
becomes an additional qualification, which is definitely helpful in
establishing a good rapport with the audience. 9.33 % respondents
have noted that they have interest in writing articles, short stories, and
reports of dance programmes, competitions and festivals.
Travelling is the most common hobby among them. 86.66 %
respondents have made it clear that they love travelling. Most of them
have travelled in many parts of India for the purpose of dance. It may
be for performances, dance fesdvals, dance competitions, exams and
for workshops organized in different parts of the country.
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24. 40 % respondents have interest in reading. A personality of a
dancer must be versatile in order to be a successful artist or to have a
successful professional life. And books are one of the major sources
of seeking knowledge, which uhimately helps him in developing his
personality.
It is interesting to note that a substantial proportion of respondents
showed a keen aptitude of participation in extra curricular activities
during their school and college education, which underlines their
enterprising nature.
All this shows that respondents harboured potential seeds of
enterprise and boldness even during the period of education. The
quality, which is essential for any individual engaged in this
profession, includes facing the challenges with courage. This quest
makes it clear that all these activities developed the capacities of the
respondents and helped them to make their career in this field. Doing
these activities along with dance training and academic education is
not easy. It is time consuming as well as expensive and may be
affordable only to financially well off people more easily than others.
It may not be easily accessible to lower middle class or financially
weak people. Thus to acquire a better position in this field, again
economic condition of an individual plays an important role.
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25. Participation in Cultural Activities:
There is definitely some interrelationship between dance and some
other cultural activities. Such activities may help a dance artist to
develop necessary skills. An attempt is made here to find out how
consciously dance students and their parents are taking efforts to make
a career in this field and how they are being aware of all such
important things that have become conditions for being a dancer.
Table No. 6.2.2
Respondents' Participation in Cultural Activities:
Cultural Activities
Music
Drama
Films
Vocal
No. Of Respondents
13
36
3
46
Percentage
17.33%
48.00 %
04.00 %
61.33%
A Multi Response Table
All these cultural activities are related to dance directly or
indirectly. Participation in some of these cultural activities helps a
dancer to develop skills. A good dancer has to have basic knowledge
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26. of music, drama and singing. These are some of the basic
requirements of this profession.
Table 6.2.2 makes it clear that 17.33 % respondents have
participated in music related activities (playing instruments). 48 %
that is almost half of the respondents have participated in drama, one
act play, mono acting, and drama competitions. And this activity has
helped them to improve their skills as an artist. As 'natya' is one of
the major components of 'nritya', it helped them a lot. A small
proportion of the respondents that is 4 % have acted in films. Such a
small proportion shows that acting in films is still not a common
phenomenon. There may not be a favourable attitude towards films in
educated, reputed and well off families, so the girls in such families
are not allowed to participate in films. It seems that classical dance
has acquired more status than acting in films or is considered as a
more dignified field in which girls from dignified families can make
their career. One more important aspect of this matter is that hardly
any dance-oriented films that are dedicated to classical dance are
produced these days. That is why the dance artists who are trained in
it are not willing to act in films.
46.33 % that is almost half of the respondents can sing or are
learning classical singing, which definitely must have helped them in
developing their skills, required for their profession.
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27. The respondents' interest in cultural activities, throws a good light
on the efforts taken by them to develop their skills. It shows the
growing aspirations of dance artists in modem India that they are
consciously trying to develop their dancing.
Thus it can be concluded that the classical dance artists and their
parents have become more conscious about this field. Consciously
they are taking some efforts, which ultimately will enhance the rank
of their daughters as dance artists.
Scholarships or Academic Awards Won By the Respondents:
In modem days academic education has received immense
importance in society. At the same time the training in extra curricular
activities is also becoming significant. Especially an artist in modern
society needs both the things. It has been seen in the previous section
that almost all the respondents are fairly educated. In the present
section an attempt is made to find out whether they have performed
well in academic field or have only concentrated more on their art. In
this regard a question was asked to them whether they received any
scholarship or academic awards in their school or college life. Table
No.6.2.3 gives information about awards and scholarships received by
the respondents.
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28. Table No.6.2.3
Scholarships or Awards Won By Respondents during Their
School or College Days
Options
Yes
No
Total
No. Of Respondents
13
62
75
Percentage
17.33 %
82.66 %
100.00%
Table No. 6.2.3 reveals that though less in number, some of the
respondents have received such awards and prizes. 17.33 %
respondents have informed that they have got such awards or
scholarships in their academic career. At the same time 82.66 % have
not achieved any awards and scholarships. It may be due to the
following reasons.
1. These respondents must have been more interested in making their
career in dance than in the academics.
2. Due to their dance related activities they must have ignored their
academic career.
3. It may be difficult to pay attention at both the things at a time and
as all the respondents have done well in dance, it mustn't have
become possible for them to concentrate on their studies well.
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29. 4. Though they haven't got any prizes or scholarships their academic
performance is fairly good, they all are well educated.
All these questions and respondents' responses to them clearly
indicate that the awareness of people regarding classical dance is
growing. The respondents are more consciously taking efforts to
develop their skills as dancers and even parents are helping them in
doing all these required activities.
Section- 3
Aspects Related To Dance
There are some aspects that highlight the present situation of a
particular fact in society. They also show the recent trends in society
regarding different facts such as professions, arts, technologies and
many other things. They also point out, how a particular phenomenon
or fact has attained an importance in society at that particular time
and what are the views of society regarding it that affect the fact
favourably or adversely. These factors are nothing but changing trends
in society and the views of people about it. Certainly there are such
factors that enabled the present researcher to know the recent facts
and attitude of classical dance students and their parents about the
classical dance. Such as proper age of starting dance training, period
214

30. of training, appropriate age of completion of dance training,
respondents motivations for learning dance, reasons for the selection
of particular style, importance given to dance examinations and
competitions, and to which examinations of dance the respondents
have given preferences and the importance given by the respondents
to dance practice even during school or college examinations. These
exercises facilitated the present researcher to know the current
situation about classical dance in society.
Age Factors:
Indian classical dance has become peculiar due to some facts
related to it. One of the major facts is that if one wishes to make a
career in this field, he or she has to start learning it at the earlier stage
of life. Almost all the renowned artists have started learning their art
right from the early part of their childhood. It may be due to the fact
that these arts need lifetime devotion, hard practice, discipline,
concentration and sacrifice. If a person starts learning it since his or
her childhood, he gets habituated to such a disciplined life easily.
These days it is impossible for any student to concentrate only on
dance and to ignore academic education fully. That is why nobody can
spare all of his or her time for dance training or practice. Thus if the
person starts learning it at an early age, it becomes possible to achieve
something along with the completion of academic education. And one
more important reason to start this at an early age is that, one's
215

31. aptitude and liking can be judged at this stage and if a person doesn't
have an aptitude or liking in it, it becomes easy to choose another line.
Experts say that the proper age to start learning dance is seven to
ten years. This is because the proper dance training takes at least
twelve to fourteen years and if a child starts training at the age of
seven to ten years then one can complete the basic training by the age
of twenty two to twenty four years, which is the proper age for
commencing one's professional life.
Table No.6.3.1
Age of Commencing Dance Training
Age Of Commencing
Dance Training
6-8
9-11
12-14
15-17
Total
No. Of Respondents
25
33
09
08
75
Percentage
33.33 %
44.00 %
12.00%
10.66%
100.00 %
This information helped to assess the present situation of classical
dance and the views of respondents about the age of commencing
216

32. classical dance training. It helped to find out how consciously people
are looking at dance these days. Table No.6.3.1 clearly shows us that
33.33 % respondents have started their training at the age of 6 to 8 and
44.00 % at the age of 9 to 11. Thus it can be said that the most
common and may be the proper age of starting dance training is 6 to
11. Another group of 12.00 % respondents started their training at the
age of 12 to 14 and 10.66 % at the age of 15 to 17. Thus one can start
learning at the age of 15 to 17 also but it becomes difficuh to
complete training at proper age, which is considered as the age of
starting a professional career or the age of being independent
performer or they may find it difficult to compete with their
competitors. The girls who start it at an early age can complete it up to
the age of 20, which helps them to develop their vocation. The
majority of the respondents have started their training at the proper
age. It also shows the consciousness of their parents in this regard.
Thus if one wants to make a career in this field he or she has to
start dance training at the early age but if one wants to learn it only as
a hobby or as a leisure time activity, he or she can start learning it
little later also.
Duration of Respondents' Dance Training:
Respondents were asked one more significant question about their
training period that is how many years they have been learning it.
217

33. Their responses to this question helped to understand the fact that
classical dance needs extensive training and it is almost a never-
ending process. It indicated their seriousness and commitment to this
field.
Table No.6.3.2
The Duration of Respondents' Dance Training
Years
5-7
8-10
11-13
15-17
19+
Total
No. Of Respondents
—
16
16
32
11
75
Percentage
—
21.33%
21.33%
42.66 %
14.66%
100.00%
As the respondents were mostly senior students, all of them have
been learning it for more than 8 to 10 years. 21.33 % respondents
have been learning dance since last 8 to 10 years. The same
proportion of the respondents (21.33 %) is learning it since last 11 to
13 years. 42.66 % respondents are doing it for the last 15 to 17 years
and 14.66 % are for a long period of more than 19 years. It reveals the
fact that learning dance is an unending process because even well
218

34. known dancers and esteemed Gurus also say that still they are
students and still learning this art. Thus many dancers keep continuing
their practice in the same institution from where they have learnt it
and they modestly say that they are still learning it. Almost all the
respondents have noted that they would continue it for the whole life.
They will not leave their Guru. This may be due to the following
reasons.
1. Due to the feeling of gratefulness for their Guru they do not want
to leave him.
2. Dance training is an unending process.
3. The techniques and science of this art are getting modified all the
time that is why they always want to be in touch with their Guru.
4. It may be difficult to make a career alone. Even the modest
association with their Guru becomes necessary in order to get help
and support from their mates and even from Guru.
5. Continuous practice is very important, which becomes possible by
being with the Guru's institution.
6. Sometimes the Guru also needs his well-trained and thus well-
established students to be with him either for new projects or to
teach younger students or for some other purposes.
7. They all must have accepted the fact that learning classical dance
is not an easy task and needs extensive and hard training.
219

35. Thus all the respondents had completed a prolonged and extensive
training. It shows that the younger generation in present times also has
a great amount of patience and feelings of devotion towards this art. It
also gives us the account of the importance given by them to their
profession and the significance of the classical dance in the present
society.
Selection of the Particular Field:
While studying any profession it becomes very important to know
that whether the person has chosen his profession on his own volition
or not. It is an influential factor. It affects on individual's
performance, development and obviously his success in life. A person
who has chosen a particular professional field on his own than he
shows a keen interest in it and makes efforts to achieve some position
in this field.
This particular issue is very important as far as the present study is
concerned because a person chooses the profession or parents
persuade their children to choose a profession, which has some
dignity or importance and obviously, which helps its professionals to
achieve a good posifion in society. The status of dance ardsts is
always fluctuating in India. It has not remained same throughout the
history. This issue helped to assess the present status of the dance and
dance artists in society.
220

36. Decision of Selecting This Field for Carrier:
It may be possible that successful and well-known dance artists
may not have chosen their profession on their own; somebody else
must have persuaded them. In this regard the question was included in
the schedule that did they join the dance school on their own volition
and responses are as follows.
Table No. 6.3.3
Respondents Decision about Joining a Classical Dance School
Options
Yes
No
Total
No. of Respondents
45
30
75
Percentage
60.00 %
40.00 %
100.00%
As mentioned earlier, a keen inspiration shown by a large
proportion of respondents towards the participation in extra-curricular
and cultural activities during the period of education shows their
liking or aptitude towards arts. No wonder, a predominant proportion
of respondents (viz. 60 %) covered by our survey displayed a keen
interest to join the dance school on their own volition. And a
comparatively less proportion (viz. 40 %) has not joined it due to their
own interest. But somebody motivated them. In spite of it they have
221

37. decided to choose it as a career and are devotionally trying for that. It
may be due to the fact that classical dance in India has that much
gravity to attract and involve people especially students towards it.
It may be said that though some respondents have chosen it on
their own volition, their parents must have played an important role in
this regard, because most of the respondents have started learning it at
the early age. Thus it must be their parents' decision that whether to
register their daughters in a dance school or not.
Who persuaded them?
Some respondents have answered that they have not chosen the
profession on their own volition. Some other persons have motivated
them. This point is very important in this regard because in pre
independent period the dance artists did not enjoy social status or
dignity in society. Moreover the girls belonging to middle and higher
middle class and dignified families were not allowed and ready to
enter this profession. Their parents or friends never persuaded them to
choose this profession. Most probably the ill famed women were
engaged in it. On this background this question helped to understand
the changing process, which is very significant as far as the present
survey is concerned. The change, which is taking place in society
since last 50 years is being reflected in the answers to this question.
222

38. In case of 40 % respondents their parents have persuaded them in
choosing this particular profession. This change is a landmark in the
process of transformation of Indian classical dance. Such a change
helped to survive and sustain these dance forms.
Persuading Reasons:
The respondents who have chosen it on their own were asked one
more question in this regard to know the reasons due to which they
were attracted towards it and started learning it. They were given
some options in order to draw certain conclusions. This question also
facilitated to understand the views of girl dancers that helped them to
select this profession for their career. While analyzing the information
received in response to this question it was taken for granted that
though the respondents have started learning dance on their own, their
parents must have played an important role in this regard.
223

39. Table No.6.3.4
Reasons, Which Persuaded Respondents to Learn Dance
Reasons
Liking
Hobby
A good physical exercise
As a leisure time activity
It will help to become
independent in future
No. of Respondents
25
20
6
4
15
Percentage
55.55 %
44.44 %
13.33%
08.88 %
33.33 %
A multi response table (45 respondents were asked this question who
have chosen this profession on their own.)
Table No. 6.3.4 reveals the reasons, which motivated the
respondents to learn classical dance. 55.55 % that is more than half of
the respondents had liking for dance. The question arises then if they
have started learning dance at an early age, how did they develop the
liking for this art in such an early age. It may be possible due to the
media impact or due to parents' inspiration or it can be said that after
starting dance training they must have developed interest in it. The
same justification may be applicable to the second option also. 44.44
% respondents noted that they have started learning it as a hobby.
224

40. 13.33 % respondents said that they found dancing a good physical
exercise and that is why they have joined a dance school.
8.88 % respondents have started learning it as a leisure time
activity. Today's parents are becoming more and more conscious
about their children's leisure time activities. Many think that extra
curricular activities can be good leisure time activities. They are
becoming more conscious about it and started taking interest in the
matter. This also shows the growing importance of dance in society.
This quest reveals a changing and welcoming trend that parents
are encouraging their children to learn such a traditional art, which
was looked down by the society five to six decades ago. Such a
change is in favour of classical dance forms in India, which definitely
will help these forms to survive and develop in future.
Selection of the Particular Style:
As we have seen earlier, there are seven acknowledged Indian
classical dance forms. All are traditional. All are well known but the
level of their popularity is not same all over India. Each style is
popular in some particular region. For example Kathak is popular in
Uttar Pradesh and in Maharashtra. It cannot be seen in Kerala or in
Kashmir in such a developed manner. Kathakali and Mohini Attam
are popular only in Kerala. Mostly these styles are well appreciated at
225

41. the places of their origin and in nearby regions. But in the case of
Kathak it can be said that though Maharashtra is not the place of
origin of Kathak, it has come to Maharashtra and especially got a
substantial response in Pune. In the present survey an attempt is made
to find out the reasons for the respondents choosing this particular
style.
Table No. 6.3.5
Reasons of the Selection of This Particular Style
Reasons
Parents liked it
With some particular objective
in mind.
No particular reason.
Liking
Due to convenience and
availability.
No. of
Respondents
22
40
13
42
Percentage
29.33 %
53.33 %
17.33%
56.00 %
A Multi Response Table
Table No. 6.3.5 indicates some of the important tendencies in
society regarding dance such as 29.33 % respondents have started
learning this particular style because their parents liked it. It is due to
226

42. the fact that more than 75 % respondents have started learning dance
in the age group of 6 to 12. So we can draw a conclusion that the
respondents did not have any specific interest in mind before starting
their dance training, as they were too young to decide this. Obviously
their parents must have decided this. Not even a single respondent has
said that she had any particular objective in mind before starting the
dance training, such as, to earn money in future or to achieve higher
status or to get publicity. 53.33 % respondents have noted that they
have started learning Kathak due to some reasons. 17.33 %
respondents have started learning Kathak, as they liked this particular
style. 56 % that is the majority of the respondents honestly conceded
that initially they did not have any knowledge about it. They have just
selected the dance school, which was available and convenient to
them or just because of the suggestions of relatives or friends.
The above description makes it clear that many people are still
unaware about the particularities of classical dance styles. While
enrolling their children in a dance school, most of the time people are
unaware about the style, its importance, its future and the future of
their children. They just enroll their wards in a dance school, which is
available and convenient to them.
Some respondents have expressed some other reasons during the
discussions with them, that they have started learning Kathak as they
were introduced to this particular style in the school. Some schools
227

43. have started teaching dance as a regular subject. It is a good change
that if at least some basic knowledge of these arts is being given in the
school, people will be aware of the rich tradition of our society. It will
be helpful for sustenance of classical dance.
Dance Examinations and Competitions:
In this section an attempt was made to get information about the
career of these respondents in the dance field. The present researcher
has tried to find out whether the respondents have appeared for any
dance examinations conducted by university or any other equivalent
institution. Are there any such institutions, which conduct dance
examinations? Does the University conduct such examinations? Is
there inclusion of dance as an academic subject? Such issues also
helped the researcher to know the present situation of classical dance
in society.
In some Universities dance has been included as a regular subject.
Students can get their Bachelor's or Master's degree in dance and
music. It is being taught in the University of Pune, S. N. D. T.
University etc. Universifies, which have established performing Art
Centers, conduct the Bachelor and Master Degree courses in Dance,
Dramatics and Music.
228

44. In Maharashtra there is one more very old institution known as
Akhil Bharatiya Gandharva Mahvidyalaya (A. B. G. M.), located in
Miraj, in Sangli District, which gives training in several Indian
classical performing arts such as Dance; Kathak and Bharata Natyam,
Music and Instruments etc. and conducts examinations. This
institution is well known for its disciplined and quality education. The
A. B. G. M. has its centers all over Maharashtra and the examinations
of dance (Kathak and Bharata Natyam) and music (vocal and
instrumentation) are being conducted twice a year at these centers.
The A. B. G. M. and its examinations are so popular that almost all
the dance schools allow their students to appear these examinations.
Table No.6.3.6
Respondents Appearing for Dance Examinations
Options
Appeared for examinations
Not appeared
Total
No. of Respondents
75
—
75
Percentage
100.00%
—
100.00%
Table No. 6.3.6 reveals the fact that all (viz. 100 %) the
respondents have appeared for the dance examinations conducted by
the A. B. G. M. It shows the vitality of examinations in this field and
even the consciousness of people regarding dance in society. The
girls, who learn dance or wish to make a career in this field appear for
229

45. these examinations and reputed institutions in society are conducting
such examinations. All this highlights increasing status and popularity
of classical dance in society. Previously the girls from reputed and
educated families were not even allowed to attend dance programmes.
Now not only they are learning dance but also are trying to make their
careers in dance.
All these respondents have attended the following examinations.
Table No. 6.3.7
Distribution of Respondents by the Examinations They Have
Appeared
Name Of The Exam
B. A. (Pune University)
M. A. (Pune University)
Visharad (A.B.G.M.)
Alankar (A.B.G.M.)
No. of Respondents
8
8
40
19
Percentage
10.66%
10.66%
53.33 %
25.33 %
A Multi Response Table
The present table shows that some of the respondents are highly
proficient in dance. They have achieved higher degree of excellence
in dance from reputed institutions. 10.66 % respondents have attained
their Bachelor's degree and the same proportion of respondents has
230

46. attained Master's degrees from Pune University. 53.33 % that is more
than half of the respondents have successfully done Visharad, which
is a Bachelor's Degree of A.B.G.M. Another group of 25.33 %
respondents have done Alankar from A.B.G.M., which is considered
as a Master's degree of A.B.G.M., and is considered a very
prestigious degree in this field. Almost 25 % of the total respondents
have done it. Some respondents have not yet completed their Visharad
but they are in process of doing it. It indicates how much they and
their parents are serious and concerned about their careers that they
are trying hard for it. Many young girls belonging to higher castes and
middle and higher classes are not only engaged in this field but they
enjoy families' support and encouragement.
Thus it can be concluded that the students who wish to make their
career in this field, appear for such examinations. Rather it has
become essential for them. It seems that learning dance and
successfully presenting it before the audience is not enough today, but
respondents have to have certain qualifications in this field.
Dance Competitions
As we have understood the essentiality and importance of dance
examinations, one more existing fact should be taken in to
consideration that along with the examinations these students
participate in certain competitions conducted by some cultural
23]

47. institutions or by some dance schools or by the organizers of various
youth festivals.
Table No. 6.3.8
Participation in Competitions
Options
Yes
No
Total
No. of Respondents
50
25
75
Percentage
66.66 %
33.33 %
100.00%
Table No. 6.3.8 shows that most of the respondents (Viz.66.66 %)
have participated in such competitions. Some of the well-known and
prestigious competitions and youth festivals in which the respondents
have participated are as follows.
1. Kalyani Karandak
2. Firodia Karandak
3. Dahad Vidya Vardhini
4. Mood Indigo
5. Sursingar Sansad Mumbai
6. Sharada Sangeet
7. Mahima Foundation
8. D. B. Paluskar Award Etc.
232

48. 9. Inter University Youth Festival
A large number of institutions and organizers of such
competitions highlight the growing importance and the need of these
competitions. In this regard an attempt was made to know the
respondents' success in these competitions, which will be helpful to
understand growing importance and dignity of dance and dance artists
in society. Though the participation in these competitions is
important, winning awards in it has become more important. It
increases the dancers' status among the competitors. A dance artist
gets fame and importance in society, which is considered as a pre
requisite for being a successful dance artist.
Table No. 6.3.9
Awards Won by the Respondents
No. Of Awards They Won
Nil or Not Yet Participated
Only 1
More Than 1
5 Awards
More Than That
Total
No. of
Respondents
28
8
9
8
22
75
Percentage
37.33 %
10.66%
12.00 %
10.66%
29.33 %
100.00%
233

49. Table No.6.3.9 reveals that 37.33 % respondents have not yet
received any awards. 10.66 % have received only one award till now.
12 % have received more than two and 10.66 % have received 5
awards till now. It is remarkable that 29.33 % respondents have told
that they have received more than five awards.
Thus it can be said that participating and winning the awards in
such competitions has become a part of their pursuits. Almost all the
respondents are trying for it. A large number of institutions are
organizing such competitions and festivals for which they are getting
financial support from society in the form of sponsorships. Some 5 or
6 decades ago people did not encourage these arts and girls and
women belonging to well to do families and higher castes were not
even allowed to learn dance. However, today exactly the opposite
situation can be seen. A major proportion of respondents belong to
this group. They are learning dance, taking part in dance competitions
and winning awards in such a large number and are being encouraged
by their parents, relatives and friends to learn dancing.
Practice During School or College Examinations:
Importance given by the respondents to dance indirectly indicates
to some extent the importance given to dance by society. All the
respondents in this survey are planning to make a career in this field
that is why it becomes important to know how much time they spent
234

50. on dance or what kind of priority are they giving to dance. This can be
gauged from the fact that they keep practicing even during their
school or college examinations. This helps to know the level of
importance given to dance.
Table No.6.3.10
Practice during School/College Examinations
Options
Yes
No
Total
No. of Respondents
56
19
75
Percentage
74.66 %
25.33 %
100.00
The data introduces an underlined fact. 74.66 % respondents
answered that they continued practicing during their school or college
examinations, while 25.33% respondents answered that they were
doing it till the date of examinations but not during the examinations
as basic academic education was equally important for them. Some
respondents have noted that the practice provided them an escape
from the routine and they could avoid the monotony that emerged due
to continuous study.
235

51. In order to make a career in any field an individual has to take
some extra efforts and do hard work for it. As already seen earlier all
the selected respondents were interested in making a career in dance,
so it was thought necessary to know what kind of additional efforts
they are taking for their successful career, such as extra practice,
doing some additional courses, reading more material related to dance
and watching the programmes of other dancers etc.
Table No.6.3.11
Extra Efforts Taken by the Respondents
Sr.
No.
1.
2
3
4.
Options
Hours of practice daily
Learning music, vocal or instrumental
as it is a prerequisite to be a
successful dancer
Taking part in various competitions
as it gives us confidence
Attending various workshops held all
over India
No. of
Respondents
75
60
5o
46
Percentage
100.00%
80.00 %
66.66 %
61.33%
236

52. 5.
6.
7.
8.
9.
10.
Watching various programmes of
eminent dancers
Trying to learn new things like new
styles, new trends etc.
Teaching dance to juniors in presence
of Guru as it helps to develop skills
Sometimes academic career has to be
ignored
It is important to be up dated
Continuously trying to bring
perfection in style, gestures and hand
movements (hastaka)
65
49
25
30
59
70
86.66 %
65.33 %
33.33 %
40.00 %
78.66 %
93.33 %
A Multi Response Table
The table number 6.3.11 gives us an idea about the efforts taken
by the respondents while trying to make a career in this field. All the
respondents (viz. 100%) agreed that one has to practice hard to
succeed in this field. Without long hours of practice daily it is difficult
to be a good dance artist. All the respondents believed in hard work.
A huge proportion of 80 % respondents noted that it is necessary
for a dancer to learn music, vocal and instrumental at least up to a
certain level. To be an expert in Laya (rhythm) and in Tala (bits), it is
237

53. not just enough to learn dance. It also becomes important to learn
singing or playing any basic instrument. While composing
choreography the knowledge of music helps a lot. It helps to avoid
total dependence of a dance artist on the music director. Thus a dancer
can work fast and put his ideas in his creations.
A sizeable number of the respondents (viz. 66.66%) have reported
that taking part in the various dance competitions gave them a sense
of confidence, which is very important for their profession. As we
have seen earlier 66.66 % respondents have already participated in
such competitions. Such participation gives them an opportunity to
present their art before the audience, which becomes useful in their
career.
It seems that active participation in various workshops held all
over the country helped them a lot to get the guidance of renowned
and proficient Gurus. 61.33 % respondents have attended such
workshops.
A preponderant proportion of 86.66 % respondents have agreed to
the fact that watching the performances of eminent artists is very
important as it gave them a chance to know the styles of other
schools'. Most of the respondents said that usually they do not miss
the chance of watching such programmes. Sometimes they even travel
long distances to attend such programmes. During such occasions they
238

54. get a chance to meet other upcoming and even senior artists. They can
exchange their experiences and know new trends in their field.
65.33 % respondents beheve that learning new styles and new
trends is also necessary. It gives a wider view to a dance artist and
helps her to overcome the bias or misconceptions about the other
styles. It definitely helps the dancer to improve the skills and
capacities.
Almost 1/3"' of the respondents (viz. 33.33 %) are teaching dance
to the other students in their Guru's school, in the presence of their
Guru. According to them it makes them more perfect. While teaching
in front of their Gurus they have to be more alert, careful and more
perfect, which definitely helps them a lot.
A dance artist needs full concentration, devotion and hard work, in
order to become a professional dancer. As the respondents in the
present survey are trying to make a career in this field they should try
it with full concentration and devotion. It must have affected their
studies. 40 % respondents have agreed that sometimes they have to
ignore their academic career. In modem days it is not possible to
concentrate totally on dance and fully ignore the academic career.
This was possible in olden days. Today an individual has to
concentrate on studies at least till a certain level of skills is achieved
in this field. Thus sometimes they have to concentrate on their studies.
239

55. But sometimes they have to ignore it also. For example sometimes
they have to attend a dance festival or dance competition or they have
to appear for a dance examination and due to that they have to neglect
their academic career.
As a need of every profession even a dancer also has to update his
skills and knowledge otherwise he or she will not be able to stand in
competitions. 78.66 % respondents are trying to update themselves by
attending workshops or other such programmes.
A very large proportion of 93.33 % respondents believe that they
have to try continuously to bring perfection in their styles, gestures
and hand movements (Hastaka), which is an important part of this art.
A dancer has to be aware of the fact that dancing is a performing art
and thus the performance becomes very important.
One significant point that emerges here is that most of the
respondents are trying their best to make their careers as dance artists.
They are taking all the necessary and possible efforts. It can be
concluded that almost all the respondents who want to be known as
dancers devoted more or less fully to their profession. Thus their
conscious efforts to upgrade themselves show a sign of improvement
even in the status of dance and dance artists. The social changes that
are taking place in society are responsible for such improvements.
Growing competition in all the fields led to the increasing tensions,
240

56. stresses, loneliness in the life of common people, and to the growing
need of leisure time activities, which ultimately results in the growing
popularity of ancient Indian arts.
Ambitions of tiie Respondents:
While deciding about fiiture career plans or about a career an
individual has to have some ambitions in mind. It is difficult to find a
person without any ambition. And especially a person who has
already decided about career would definitely have certain ambitions
in mind. In the present survey an attempt is made to know the
ambitions of the respondents as it becomes necessary while studying
about the present position and status of classical dance and dance
artists in society. The information received was also very helpful to
know the present and future of classical dance in society. It was even
useful to study the views of the society about classical dance. The
table No.6.3.12 displays the information very effectively.
241

57. Table No.6.3.12
Ambitions of the Respondents
Sr.
No.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
Options
To be a dance teacher
Performing dance at various
places to make Kathak dance a
popular dance form
To motivate more and more
people to learn Kathak dance for
the preservation of style
To make the dance form popular
all over the world
To earn more money, fame and
status through dance
No. of
Respondents
58
56
32
16
25
Percentage
77.33 %
74.66 %
42.66 %
21.33%
33.33 %
A Multi Response Table
The respondents were given the above options to choose from.
Almost three fourth of the respondents (77.33 %) replied that they
wished to be dance teachers. This indicates their dedication towards
this art. They want dance to flourish and they wish to contribute to the
process. There may be some other reasons also.
1. If they want to be professional dance artists they won't be able to
do it alone. They need a group of accompanying dancers, which
they would get it from their students.
242

58. 2. If they want to set choreographies they need a group of expert
dancers. That is why they need their own well trained students
3. Having one's own dance school helps to be independent.
4. It facilitates to be popular at least in the local areas.
5. It helps to bring stability in life.
Due to all the above-mentioned reasons a majority of the
respondents must have been in favour of becoming a dance teacher.
74.66 % respondents wish to popularise dance in society and for
that they want to perform their art at various places. At present most
of them are performing with their Gurus as it is difficult to perform
alone because almost all the respondents are upcoming artists. They
all are aware of the fact that this is not an easy task to perform
individually. As we have seen before, it needs a strong financial
support. In addition to that organizing a programme and getting an
audience is also very difficult task. Thus presenting their art at various
places in order to make it popular is not an easy task especially in the
case of any classical dance form. Still 74.66 % respondents have
responded to this option not because they are unaware of the above
facts but because they have a strong will to preserve it. It shows their
devotion and dedication towards it. Though it is very difficult they are
trying to perform at various places. Sometimes they try to get
sponsorships or at least they try for it and some time they bear their
243

59. own expenses. Many times they try to minimise the budget by
avoiding extra spending but this is not always possible.
The dance performances help to raise the popularity and dignity of
a dance artist in society. On the contrary some decades back
particularly in pre independent India, the dance performers were
looked down upon and didn't enjoy social dignity. This change is very
important for the present study. It has become possible due to the
growing importance and status of dance in society.
42.66 % respondents have noted that they wish to motivate more
people for learning Kathak dance. They wish to propagate it and they
believe that this would be helpful for the preservation and survival of
classical dance styles. They especially want to concentrate their
efforts on Kathak dance style.
A tiny section of 21.33 % respondents noted that they wish to
make the dance form popular all over the world. And a small group of
respondents (viz. 12.00 %) have very honestly agreed that they will
earn more money, fame and higher social status through the dance.
This makes it clear that dance can be a means of livelihood as well as
a way to obtain fame and higher status in modern society. It also
underlines the social transformation that has taken place. Once dance
had lesser dignity in society and that is why dancers were also looked
down upon.
244

60. The analysis of the table No.6.3.12 speaks of the high ambitions of
the respondents. Thus it can be concluded that the wishes and the
efforts of such young and ambitious dancers definitely would help
Kathak to survive and develop in the near future.
Prospects in This Field:
It was thought essential to know the views and ideas of the
respondents about their chosen career, their confidence regarding this
profession and their choice. In this regard the question was asked to
them that do they think that they have good prospects in this field.
And their answers to this question gave following information.
Table No.6.3.13
Prospects in This Field
Options
Yes
No
Total
No. of Respondents
75
—
75
Percentage
100.00%
—
100.00%
It is significant to note that all the respondents think that they have
good prospects in this field, and that they have chosen a right
profession. They all are aware of the fact that they have to work hard.
245

61. And they are doing the same. It definitely undedines the growing
popularity of classical dance in modern society.
Section- 4
Benefits of Dance In personal Life
As it has been discussed earlier that though the classical dance
forms are very old and well known in Indian society since many
centuries, people are not learning it in large numbers due to some
reasons, such as, a stigma attached to dance and dance artists in the
past, some are not taking interest in it due to the impact of popular
dance, etc. Since last 50 years this art is becoming popular among the
elite classes. Girls belonging to these classes have started learning
classical dance and parents not only are allowing them to learn it but
are also encouraging them. And due to this fact the number of
classical dance artists and students is growing day by day, which has
led to the easy survival and vigorous development of classical dance.
Such a development must have helped people to be aware of the
benefits of dance in personal life, which would definitely help
classical dance in future.
In the present section an endeavour is made to find out the
opinions of the respondents about the benefits of learning dance in
246

62. personal life. In this regard a question was asked to them that as a
dance artist are you getting any advantages in your personal life? It
was a close-ended question and respondents were given options,
which they had to select if they agree with.
Table No. 6.4.1
Benefits and Advantages of Being a Dancer
Benefits
Physical fitness.
Helped in getting more prestige and
fame among friends and relatives.
Got a chance of foreign tour.
Got a chance of travelling in different
parts of India.
Got a chance of performance on T. V.
As a dancer got a chance of meeting
different people who are well known
and honourable in different fields.
Dance has helped to achieve the higher
status in society.
No. of
Respondents
75
42
40
60
45
56
41
Percentage
100%
56.00 %
53.33 %
80.00 %
60.00 %
74.66 %
54.66 %
A Multi Response Table
247

63. Table number 6.5.1 clearly indicates that all the 75 respondents
(Viz. 100 %) have replied that dance has helped them to keep
physically fit. Definitely it is a very good exercise and all the
respondents are doing daily practice in order to make a career in this
field. Thus all of them think that they are physically fit and only
regular and hard practice has made it possible. It is a fact that rapidly
changing lifestyle has resulted in the growth in mental and physical
stresses and dance definitely helps to minimize it as it releases mental
stress also.
More than half of the respondents (56 %) believed that they are
getfing more importance and fame among their friends and relatives
because of the fact that they are dance artists and doing something
different and great, which everybody cannot do.
A third possible benefit is that as a dance artist whether the
respondents have got a chance of foreign tour. A very interesting fact
that has come out was, more than half of the (viz. 53.33 %)
respondents have already got the chance of a foreign tour for their
dance performances. The respondents, who have not yet got such
chance, some of them have mentioned that after achieving certain
position in this field, they will definitely get such an opportunity in
future.
248

64. Those, who have got such a chance, have visited the U. S., Japan,
Singapore, U. A. E., Thailand, Russia, Malaysia and some countries in
Europe. Some of them have visited to more than two countries also.
Some have got the chance due to their personal contacts and efforts
while some have gone with their Gurus. The important thing is that all
of them believed that only because of dance they have got such a
chance.
80 % respondents have noted that they have got a chance of
travelling to different parts of India for dance performances,
workshops, competitions and for different dance festivals. Such
travelling helped to make them more confident, bold and has given
them a lot of experience, which they would not have got without it.
One more important option in regard to the present study was
given to them and it is very attention grabbing that 60 % of the total
respondents have got a chance to perform on Television. Television is
an effective means of communication. It gives more public exposure
to the artist within a short period of time. Many people watch T. V.
programme at a time. And performing on television has attained a
great significance in society in these days. It needs to be underlined
the fact that though less in number, classical dance performances are
also been presented on T. V. channels these days.
249

65. The respondents have got the chance of meeting various people
because they are dance artists. Such people may be well-known and
honourable artists, politicians, film actors, film producers,
industrialists or businessmen. Sometimes such meetings may help
them for their future career. A substantial proportion of 74.66 % that
is almost three-fourth of the respondents have experienced it.
As one of the major objectives of the present study is to ascertain
the status of dance artists in present society, it becomes necessary to
know whether they have achieved any particular status in society as
an artist. It has revealed that all the above-mentioned benefits, which
the respondents are enjoying as classical dancers, have helped them to
achieve certain status in society. It not only helped them in attaining
higher status but also to keep them physically and mentally fit, to be
confident and to be positive towards life. According to them these are
the most important benefits they have acquired only because of the
fact that they are classical dancers.
While discussing about the benefits enjoyed by the dance artists it
also becomes necessary to find out the difficulties faced by them in
this field.
250

66. Difficulties Faced by Them:
It is necessary to know the difficulties; they have faced while
making a career in this field and how they have overcome them. In
this regard the question 'whether they have faced any difficulties
while making a career in this field' was included in an interview
schedule. This also helped to understand whether there are any such
situations, which still may create some problems for dance artists even
in modem days.
Table No. 6.4.2
Did you face any difficulty while making a career in this field?
Options
Yes
No
Total
No. of Respondents
37
38
75
Percentage
49.33 %
50.66 %
100.00%
The above table clearly indicates that half of the respondents
(49.33 %) have faced certain difficulties while half (50.66 %) did not
have any difficulty in this field. In-depth discussions held with the
respondents helped to know the difficulfies faced by them while
making a career in this field. Many of the respondents have discussed
their difficulties in detail. The striking fact that has come out of the
251

67. survey is the respondents have faced quite similar difficuhies. Their
main difficuhy is related to financial matters. As it has been already
discussed earlier, learning classical dance is an expensive affaire and
those who don't have good financial background, faced such a
problem. The high rates of fees of dance schools, expensive costumes,
charges to be paid to musicians, examination fees and fees of various
workshops are the necessary and unavoidable expenses in an early
stage. After that if a student decides to make a career in this field,
these expenses grow gradually. Such as buying necessary musical
instruments, appointing musicians for regular practice, a place for
own dance school and for practice, costumes, travelling, make up kit,
organization of performance and many other things. No doubt that
they start earning at this stage but their earning is often less than the
expenditure in the initial stage of their career. Thus they need
financial support from the family. And if it is not possible this
situation becomes problematic. In spite of their efforts and caliber
they lag behind their competitors.
The responses of a small group of respondents in this regard are
also very significant. Although they have said that it can be solved
with some efforts up to certain extent others did not agree to it. They
have mentioned that it is not that easy to overcome the problem.
252

68. Thus it can be concluded that the main problem faced by half of
the respondents is a financial problem. Now a days Government and
some private institutions have started giving scholarships to the
students for higher education in dance. Albeit, this has helped to solve
the problems to some degree, however it has not been fully solved.
Hence the classical dance is becoming a reserve of financially well to
do people.
One more major fact came out of the survey is that the
respondents have faced only financial problems. It may mean that the
problem related to stigma attached to dancing has become inactive
today. Nobody has mentioned it. It underlines rise in the status of
classical dance and dance artists in society.
Section -5
Relationship between Classical Dance and Popular Dance
While discussing the issues related to the survival, preservation
and development of Kathak Dance and the impact of social conditions
on it, it would be apt to think about some popular dance styles such as
film dance, modern dance and imitation of western dance. We have
seen that the classical dance styles have maintained their importance
and impact as well as popular dance styles also have a greater impact
253

69. on society. This impact is also growing day by day. The popular dance
has become a threat to classical dance since long back. It is necessary
to find out the reasons and factors that are responsible for it.
Some factors have guided the changes in the patterns of leisure.
Some of these factors are social mobility, migration, urbanization,
development in technology and media and intensity of culture
contacts fi"om within and outside the country. Further the younger
generation in society is intensely motivated towards new patterns of
leisure and recreation. Such changes have eroded the elements of
humanism; free self-expression, participatory communication and
institutionalized collective sharing. The social and human character of
leisure is damaged by these developments. The symbolic relationship
between work and leisure is vanished. Leisure has turned into a
commodity and started to be bought and sold in the market. But such
changes have introduced several contradictory trends in the form of
leisure. Though the changes have begun to take place the traditional
pattern still exists.
After Independence, especially after 70s popular dance started
becoming more popular. It may be due to the impact of
modernization, westernization, growing popularity of Bollywood
films and film dances and the development of mass media, mainly
television. We have seen earlier that popular art is a saleable art and is
treated as a commodity product, which can be purchased and sold in
254

70. the market. Though not enduring, it has a massive impact on people.
One more reason that makes popular dance more popular is, these
dances can be easily learnt and presented. Developments in media
have played an important role in its publicity. Though the classical
dance is surviving, or is adapting to social changes the popular dance
is growing strong. It is not only happening in the domain of dance in
urban areas but also in rural areas. The folk theatre groups, the artists
and traditional entertainers are speedily vanishing by new
developments and social transformations. And those who are
surviving are adopting popular art as their art of presentation.
Television is rapidly entering into the spheres of leisure. Despite
preserving traditions, it is encouraging material values and market
culture through its programmes. According to Yogendra Singh, it
would threaten and rupture the cultural and social objectives of
modernization of our society.
Thus it can be said that today the popular dance has an immense
impact on society and many factors are responsible for it. Today the
most popular pattern of dance in Indian society is the film dance. It
has a greater impact on society. Although popularity of classical
dance is growing in India as well as in other parts of the world,
popular dance is frightening classical dance. Along with film dance
popular dance includes semi classical, western and modem dance
styles. Bollywood films have developed its own style of dance that is
255

71. well popular in society and people appreciate it to a great extent. It
includes mainly the imitation of classical, folk and western dance
styles and some general body movements, some of which are very
vulgar and cheap. And the mass media has helped to popularise it.
However, it is also remarkable that the impact and importance of
classical dances in society too is increasing slowly but steadily.
Number of classical dance schools and students is also growing. Thus
it can be said that the popularity of both the styles; popular dance and
classical dance is growing but the level of popularity is different.
Growing impact of popular dance has become a barrier in the
development of classical dance. Here an attempt is made to know
from the respondents the reasons that are responsible for the growing
impact and influence of popular dance and its consequences on
classical dance. A question was asked with twelve options as replies.
It was a closed ended question. Respondents could respond to more
than one fact.
256

72. Table No.6.5.1
Do you agree to the following facts about dance?
Facts
Due to media film dance has
become more popular.
Attractive costumes, famous
film actors and fabulous
music have made film dance
more appreciable.
People like film dance more
than classical dance because
anybody can do these dances
by imitating it.
Common people find it
difficult to understand
classical dance. Due to this
reason they do not like it.
Learning classical dance
needs more time and
No.
75
56
56
68
60
Yes
Percentage
100.00%
74.66 %
74.66 %
90.66 %
80.00 %
No.
—
8
*11
14
*5
7
9
*6
No
Percentag
e
—
10.66%
*(not sure)
14.66%
18.66%
06.66
09.33 %
12.00%
*(not sure)
257

73. patience, which all people do
not have. Thus the number of
students learning it is limited.
Learning classical dance is an
expensive task.
Due to the growing interest in
classical dance, number of
students learning it is also
growing.
The impact of classical dance
will also keep growing in
society. Thus all these dance
styles will maintain their
popularity in society.
There are different classes of
people in society having
liking towards different types
of dance styles.
People like some particular
popular dances very much.
But these dances loose their
impact very soon.
Still some people feel it bore
45
60
61
59
57
62
60.00 %
80.00 %
81.33%
78.66 %
76.00%
82.66 %
30
*
15
*14
8
*8
7
*11
9
08 .00%
40.00 %
*(Not
sure)
20.00 %
* 18.66%
10.66%
* 10.66%
09.33%
* 14.66%
12.00%
258

74. to learn classical dance but
they appreciate popular
dance.
Up to some extent the use of
classical dance in films has
made the classical dance
familiar to common people.
60 80.00 %
*4
15
*5.33 %
20.00 %
A multi choice question
* Not sure or can't give any opinion.
Table No.6.4.1 helps us to understand many important facts. All
the respondents (Viz. 100%) agreed that media has played an
important role in popularizing film dance (Bollywood dance). Today
almost all the entertaining T. V. channels give importance to film
dance. They conduct film dance competitions, choreography
competitions etc. based on film songs. Such programmes are getting
tremendous response from the people from all sections of society.
Some popular T. V. channels continuously telecast the programmes
that are related to Bollywood films, which definitely influence people.
After watching it many times viewers develop a liking towards it.
Second option was that "the attractive costumes, famous film
actors and magnificent music have made film dances more
259

75. appreciable." A sizeable number of the respondents that is 74.66 %
agreed to the fact. Many Hindi films are high budget films. Expensive
and attractive costumes and fabulous music make them more
attractive. In addition to that due to the participation of leading,
popular and famous film actors, audience likes them. It is evident that
there is domination of consumerist values and market culture in
television programmes. Many times people rely on mass media for the
entertainment and Government depends on it for the promotion of
culture. It is happening in the field of dance in India. The audience is
greatly impressed by the attractive costumes, music and performances
of the famous film actors than the quality of art they present.
Some respondents have expressed the view that the costumes and
music of classical dance are also very attractive but if one compares it
with film dance, one easily realises the reasons for these differences.
There is a variety of music and musical instruments used in films and
costumes used are very expensive and attractive, which is appreciated
very much by the audience. Though there is a possibility of variation
in music in classical dance there are certain limitations of traditions
and customs. Furthermore classical dance artist can't even afford to
have famous and expert musicians to accompany them for their
performance. It definitely affects the quality of their performance and
the degree of appreciation by the audience. One more important fact is
that an individual dancer is not always able to buy new costumes.
260

76. The vulgarity that is visible in film dances is not visible in
classical dance and sometimes it makes popular dance more popular
in society. Particular class in society may like this and it helps popular
dance to be more popular. On the contrary there is not even a sign of
vulgarity in any of the classical dance style. And the dancers never try
to attract people towards them, as was in the case of Devadasis of
particular period and the dancers in Mughal courts. Thus one should
not compare the individual classical dance artist or a small dance
troupe with a dancer in Bollywood films.
Though 74.66 % respondents agreed to the statement, an
insignificant group of the 10.66 % respondents denied the statement
saying that they do not agree to it. And a tiny proportion of the 14.66
% respondents were not sure about the statement so they have not
expressed their views regarding it.
The third option given to them was "people like classical dance
because anybody can do it by imitating it." 74.66 % of the total
respondents agreed to the statement. They were of the view that
people who like to dance can watch it on T.V. or on Video and imitate
it. As market culture has gained an importance in society, everybody
seeks for instant results. Thus popular dance is becoming trendier
these days.
261

77. At the same time 10.66 % of the respondents disagreed to the
statement. According to them this may not be the reason for the
popularity of these dance forms. There may be some other elements,
which determine the popularity of these dance styles. A small group
of 5.66 % of the respondents could not express their views regarding
it. According to them it is difficult to say conclusive about the factors
that are responsible in determining the popularity of various dance
forms.
The fourth statement in the table 4.4.1 was "Common people find
it difficuh to understand and appreciate classical dance. Due to this
reason they do not like it." A considerable proportion of the
respondents (Viz. 90.66 %) have approved it. All of them believed
that most of the people do not understand classical dance so they
cannot enjoy it. While a small proportion of 9.33 % respondents did
not agree with the statement. Some of them have mentioned that to
agree with the statement means to agree that those who like classical
dance also understand it, which is not always true.
"Learning classical dance needs more time and patience, which all
people generally do not have. Thus the number of classical dance
artists is limited." It was the fifth statement that has been included in
the schedule. It is a known fact that learning classical dance is a task
of patience, as it needs an extensive training. 80 % of the total
respondents believed that the present statement is true while 12 % did
262

78. not think so and a small proportion of the 8 % of the respondents
could not express their views as they were not sure.
"Learning classical dance is an expensive task" was the sixth
statement that has been given to the respondents to respond to. It has
been already mentioned that learning classical dance is an expensive
task. Fees of dance schools and other expenses are unavoidable. And
classical dance training is a prolonged process. Film dances can be
learnt easily even by watching movies. Thus people like light dances
like film dance or some other forms of modem dance. 60 % of the
respondents agreed to the statement while 40 % disagreed while
saying that now a day there is a new trend in society of learning film
dances from a choreographer, whose fees are also very high. And the
number of people learning such type of dance is increasing day by
day.
The next option that was given to them that "the number of people
having interest in classical dance is growing day by day so the number
of students learning it is also growing." 80 % of the respondents
assented to the statement and a small group of 20 % that is one fifth of
the respondents refused to agree to the statement. No doubt that
number of students learning classical dance is growing but if the ratio
of the classical dance students to the total population is measured,
then it can be said that this number is less. Though the number of
people having interest in classical dance is growing, at the same time
263

79. popularity of film and other modern dance styles in society is also
growing. The events and competitions of film dances are being
organized in large numbers than those of the classical dance. Famous
and so-called prestigious groups organize such events and they get
sponsorships also. Thus it can be said that today there is more
fascination for film dance than the classical dance forms in society.
It reveals the fact that though the number of students learning
classical dance is growing day by day, the other dance forms are also
getting popularity in society these days.
The next acceptable fact was that "the impact of classical dance
forms will also keep growing in society like film dance or modern
dance." Thus all these dances (classical as well as popular) will
maintain their popularity in society among different sections of
population.
A small proportion of respondents (viz. 18.66 %) believed that it
is difficuh to predict about this situation. It may be possible or may
not be. In other words they were not sure about the statement.
It is remarkable that a large proportion of 81.33 % respondents
assented to the statement that as classical dance forms are surviving in
society since last many centuries, definitely there must be some
potentials that are helping them to survive. At the same time these
264

80. other styles are also attracting people towards themselves, this
situation has made it possible to conclude that all those styles
including classical dance will exist and maintain their standard and
popularity in society with a little difference.
The ninth statement in the table 6.4.1 is that "there are different
classes of people in society having liking towards different types of
dance forms." An analysis of the replies furnished by the respondents
shows that more than three fourth (viz. 78.66 %) of them have
indicated that each dance form has its own class of audience.
Popularity and the status of that particular style depend on the size of
that class in total population of the society, their tastes, choices, recent
fashion trends in society, impact of that particular class, etc.
A minute proportion of the respondents that is a group of only
10.66 % respondents disagreed to the statement while the same
number of the respondents (viz. 10.66 %) could not give any opinion
about the statement. Thus they could not express their views about it.
One more important issue that was discussed with them was
"people like some particular film dances or some modern dance forms
very much but these dances do not have long lasting impact on
society."
265

81. A substantial proportion of the respondents (Viz. 76 %) agreed to
the statement as it can be easily experienced in the society. Any
popular film dance looses its impact after some days. People quickly
forget it after a new arrival. But this doesn't happen in case of
classical dance. These dance forms have steadily maintained their
popularity in society. Though classical dance does not have a huge
audience, it has maintained itself for many centuries.
A minute proportion of 9.33 % respondents did not agree to the
statement. Some of them have mentioned that some famous film
dances have a greater impact on society for more than two three
decades. And rests 14.66 % of the total respondents felt it difficult to
comment anything on the statement.
The respondents were asked to react to the statement that "some
people feel that it is boring to learn classical dance but they appreciate
film or modern dances as they are easier to learn, and are more
popular and attractive."
A sizeable proportion of 82 % of the respondents very honestly
agreed to the fact that there is a large section of people in society
which does not have any liking for classical dance as they find it
boring and charm less because they do not understand it or they may
think about it as old fashioned and time consuming.
266

82. Another statement, which is included in the table is, "popular
dance has helped classical dance to reach the common man and in a
way it has helped classical dance to develop in society up to some
point."
The most important fact coming out of respondents' responses is
that film dance should not always be criticized as to some extent it is
useful for propagating classical dance styles in society. Though it has
a face of vulgarity it also helps in surviving a rich cultural heritage of
Indian society in the form of Indian classical dance styles. Still there
are many people in India who do not know what classical dance
exactly is; they never watch programmes of classical dance. In case of
such people, inclusion of classical dances in films becomes more
important in order to propagate them. That is why 80 % of the
respondents agreed to the statement. They are thankful to films for
this. There are many such films, which are based on classical dance
and people have appreciated those films, such as Naache Mayuri,
Payal Kee Zankar, Chitralekha, V. Shantaram's Zanak Zanak Payal
Baje, etc.
20 % of the respondents did not agree to it. They may not be sure
about the significance of film dance in this regard. According to them
such films are very less in number. Most of the times, the gestures,
expressions, costumes and wording of the songs in films are vulgar.
Many times people who are unaware of the classical dance styles may
267

83. think that the dance in general is vulgar and girls in dignified families
should not do this. They may judge classical dance on the background
of film dance. In this way film dances could be responsible for the
devaluation of classical dance styles. Thus they did not agree to the
statement.
The above analysis helped to find out many existing facts about
classical dance and film dance and the impact of popular dance on
classical dance. This analysis depicts the clear picture about the
interrelationships and present position of various dance forms in
society.
In this section the impact of popular dance on classical dance and
interrelationship between them has been analysed. Sometimes exactly
opposite kind of situation is also seen in society. The other dance
forms have their impact on classical dance and they affect classical
dance forms, sometimes classical dance also has its impact on popular
dance and it also sometimes affects popular dance. So it also becomes
necessary to analyse the impact of classical dance on film or popular
dance.
268

84. Impact of classical dance on film dance and relationship between
these two dance styles:
As it has been cleared that there is an impact of fihn and modern
dances on classical dance in society. It is also a fact that classical
dance also has its impact on popular dance. Some film dances are
based on classical dance, some are semi classical or some dances are
mere imitation of classical dance styles. Thus it can be said that
definitely there is an impact of classical dance forms on film dances.
As the classical dance forms are related to Indian culture and
traditions, some elements in it are being reflected in Indian films
because the film stories are also related to society. Producers and
directors include classical dance even in some new films, in which
modern lifestyle has been shown. Thus it is clear that there is an
impact of classical dance on film dance, which indirectly shows the
impact of classical dance on society. In this regard the respondents
were given some factual statements and they were asked to express
their views in two options, yes and no.
269

85. Table No.6.5.2
Impact of Classical Dance on Film Dance and Relationship
between these two Dance Styles
Statements
Sometimes only costumes
of classical dance are used
in films but the dance is not
classical.
Sometimes film dance
includes gestures and
movements of classical
dance but the dance is not
classical.
Every time the story or the
theme of the film doesn't
require classical dance to be
used in it.
If a particular story needs
classical dance to be
included in it, director tries
to set pure classical dance.
Film dance and classical
No.
75
70
63
56
24
Yes
Percentage
100%
93.33 %
84%
74.66 %
32%
N
0.
5
12
19
51
No
Percentage
6.66 %
16%
25.33 %
68%
270

86. dance are totally two
different categories and they
don't affect each other.
Themes and stories and film
line itself have its own
limitations due to which
pure classical dances cannot
be set in films.
Film is a specific type of
medium in which a story or
theme decides that what
type of dance to be set in it.
40
54
53.33 %
72%
35
21
46.66
28%
Multi response table
Many vital facts have come out from the analysis of the above
table. It reveals that up to some extent classical dance styles also have
their impact on film dances and more important is that there is a
definite relationship between them. Both of these dance forms have
helped each other up to some extent and up to some level both of them
have created problems or obstacles in each other's way. Both the
styles have emerged in society and society itself has tried to maintain
and develop both the styles. These styles have different origins,
different backgrounds and histories; they differ in each and every
aspect. However, there is a particular relationship between them and
271