Rukmini Devi Arundale was a reputed dancer and choreographer in which classical dance form?

Introduction / Context:
This question tests knowledge of Indian classical dance and the cultural figures who helped revive and popularise these art forms in the twentieth century. Rukmini Devi Arundale is one of the most important names associated with the renaissance of Bharatanatyam. She founded Kalakshetra in Chennai and worked to remove the social stigma attached to this dance, transforming it into a respected, widely taught classical tradition. Knowing her contribution is essential for questions on Indian culture and performing arts.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• The question asks about the specific dance form associated with Rukmini Devi Arundale.
• Options are Opera, Lavani, Bharatanatyam, Dandiya, and None of the above.
• We assume only one of these matches the classical style for which she was famous.

Concept / Approach:
The concept here is mapping famous cultural personalities to their art form. Rukmini Devi Arundale is universally recognised as a pioneering Bharatanatyam dancer and choreographer. Lavani is a folk dance form from Maharashtra. Dandiya is a popular folk dance from Gujarat. Opera is a Western classical musical theatre form. None of these matches her work except Bharatanatyam, which is a classical dance of Tamil Nadu that she helped to refine and codify for the modern stage.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall that Rukmini Devi Arundale founded Kalakshetra, an institution dedicated largely to Bharatanatyam and related arts. Step 2: Recognise that her main contribution was to present Bharatanatyam in a dignified, devotional, and aesthetically refined form. Step 3: Examine each option. Opera is Western and unrelated to Indian classical dance. Step 4: Lavani and Dandiya are Indian folk forms from Maharashtra and Gujarat respectively, not her field. Step 5: Conclude that Bharatanatyam is the correct answer.

Verification / Alternative check:
To verify, think of standard cultural GK lists where Rukmini Devi Arundale appears alongside other Bharatanatyam exponents such as Balasaraswati. She is never associated with Lavani or Dandiya. Official biographies and arts articles describe her as a Bharatanatyam dancer, choreographer, and teacher who developed group productions and thematic presentations in this style. This consistent association confirms that Bharatanatyam is the only accurate choice.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Opera: A Western classical musical form involving singing and orchestra; Rukmini Devi did not work primarily in this genre. Lavani: A fast paced folk dance from Maharashtra, not the classical style she is known for. Dandiya: A Gujarati folk dance associated with Navratri, again unrelated to her life's work. None of the above: Incorrect because Bharatanatyam, the right answer, is already present among the options.

Common Pitfalls:
Some students may confuse Bharatanatyam personalities with those of other classical forms like Odissi or Kathak, especially if they only memorise names without context. Others may be tempted by folk dance options because of superficial familiarity. To avoid such mistakes, it helps to study each major classical dance form along with one or two iconic exponents. Linking Rukmini Devi Arundale firmly with Bharatanatyam makes this an easy mark in examinations.

Final Answer:
Rukmini Devi Arundale was a reputed dancer and choreographer in Bharatanatyam.