Which of the following dance forms in southeastern India is highly ritualised, with a formalised song-and-dance introduction, sprinkling of holy water and burning of incense, along with invocations of goddesses?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
The correct answer is Option 2 i.e. Yakshagana.
The dance form you're referring to is Yakshagana, a traditional theatre form that combines dance, music, dialogue, costume, and ritual. However, in the southeastern coastal regions of India, particularly in Andhra Pradesh and Tamil Nadu, a more fitting answer would be Koothu or Therukoothu. This folk dance-drama is highly ritualised, often performed in temple festivals. It begins with invocations to deities, including the sprinkling of holy water, burning of incense, and singing praises of goddesses like Kali and Durga. The performance is both spiritual and theatrical, aiming to educate and entertain while reinforcing religious and moral values among local communities.