Mohiniyattam, a graceful classical dance style with gentle movements and expressive storytelling, was developed in which Indian state?

Introduction / Context:

This question belongs to the topic of Indian classical dance. Mohiniyattam is recognised as one of the major classical dance forms of India, known for its graceful swaying movements and expressive abhinaya. It is closely associated with a specific southern state and its temple and court traditions.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The dance form named is Mohiniyattam.
• The question asks in which state it was developed.
• Options list major states from southern and eastern India.
• We assume basic familiarity with the geographic roots of the classical dance styles.

Concept / Approach:

Mohiniyattam is traditionally associated with Kerala. Its name is linked to the mythological enchantress Mohini and it has historically been performed in temples and royal courts of Kerala. The approach is to connect each classical dance form with its home state: Bharatanatyam with Tamil Nadu, Kathakali and Mohiniyattam with Kerala, Kuchipudi with Andhra Pradesh, Odissi with Odisha, and so on.

Step-by-Step Solution:

Verification / Alternative Check:

To verify, consider that Tamil Nadu is already home to Bharatanatyam, while Andhra Pradesh is famous for Kuchipudi. Karnataka is linked with Yakshagana, and Odisha is linked with Odissi. None of these states claim Mohiniyattam as their signature classical dance. Cultural descriptions and performances at national festivals consistently introduce Mohiniyattam as a dance from Kerala.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:

Option A, Tamil Nadu, is the home of Bharatanatyam, not Mohiniyattam.

Option C, Andhra Pradesh, is linked with Kuchipudi as its major classical dance form.

Option D, Karnataka, has rich dance and theatrical traditions such as Yakshagana but not Mohiniyattam.

Option E, Odisha, is associated with Odissi, a different classical dance style.

Common Pitfalls:

Candidates sometimes confuse Mohiniyattam with Bharatanatyam because both are South Indian dances performed by women with expressive storytelling. Another common error is to mix up Kathakali and Mohiniyattam since both belong to Kerala but have very different styles. A helpful memory trick is to pair Kerala with two names starting with K and M: Kathakali for strong dramatic performances and Mohiniyattam for soft, graceful movement.

Final Answer:

The classical dance form Mohiniyattam was developed in the state of Kerala.