Fundamental Elements of Indian Dance

Abhinaya

Abhinaya is a common theme to all Classical and Modern Indian dances.
Abhinaya is the expressional aspect of dance, or nritya In contrast to this, Nritta is composed of only pure dance and features striking and aesthetic poses, but has no expressional meaning and symbolism.
Abhinaya has been analysed in the 'Natya Shastra' and has been categorised into four types:

• Angika - or physical, using movements of every part of the body to convey meaning, with hastamudras (hand gestures), mandis (postures) and even the walk of the dancer.
• Vachikabhinaya - or vocal/verbal, used formally today by members of the orchestra or supporting, non-dancing cast.
• Aharyabhinaya - or external, expression, mood and background as conveyed by costume, make-up, accessories and sets.
• Satvikabhinaya - or psychological, shown by the eyes in particular and as a whole by the entire being of the performer, who feels the mood,
  the character and the emotion as emanating from the self, not as an act or practical presentation.