International Dance Day also known as World Dance Day in many parts of the world is celebrated to honour the various dance forms and modes of expression that are performed globally and to offer them a tribute and universal value.
The day is also celebrated to increase awareness about dance as an art form and also to empower the community of dancers who sacrifice their lifetime to keep different dance forms alive. And present them to the audience the world over.
When did the idea of International Dance Day take root?
World Dance Day is celebrated to commemorate the birthday of the father of the modern ballet- Jean-Georges Noverre.
The Dance Committee of the International Theatre Institute (ITI), a partner of UNESCO Performing Arts conceived the idea of World Dance Day in 1982. That is why it is celebrated the world over every year on April 29. The committee selects an internationally recognized dancer or choreographer to give a special message that is meant for the global dance community.
The message intends to highlight the importance of dance and how it can help connect more people. On this day several platforms organize events to promote dance and encourage people to take up dancing not only as a profession but also for expressing and sharing their joys as well as keeping their bodies flexible and fit.
Indian classical and folk dancing
India has its forms of classical and folk dances that are an integral part of the culture and ethos of the country. From Kathak, Kathakali, Odissi, Bharatnatyam to Lavani, Garba, Bihu, Bhangda, and more, each state and region of India has its way of expressing itself through dancing. The country has produced some of the most renowned classical and folk dancers like Sitara Devi, Mrinalini Sarabhai, Birju Maharaj , Uday Shankar, and more.
Although late Western dance forms have influenced dancing in India to a large extent many classical dancers continue to promote the inherent culture of Indian dancing in the country and abroad.