Who among the following is worshipped as Nataraja before many classical dance performances in India?
Show answer & explanation
Correct answer: B
Explanation
The correct answer is Option 2 i.e. Shiva.
Before many classical dance performances in India, Lord Shiva is worshipped in his form as Nataraja, the cosmic dancer. Nataraja symbolises the divine art of dance, representing the cycle of creation, preservation, and destruction through his Tandava. Dancers often offer prayers to Nataraja before performances to seek blessings for grace, rhythm, and perfection. This tradition is especially common in Bharatanatyam and other South Indian dance forms, where the image or idol of Nataraja is placed on stage as a mark of reverence to the patron deity of dance and arts.