Threat faced by Classical dance forms of India

Published on 26 Oct 2025

While classical dance forms of India have a deep-rooted cultural significance and continue to be cherished by enthusiasts and practitioners, they also face several challenges and threats that could impact their preservation and continuation. Some of the major threats faced by classical dance forms of India include:

• Changing Societal Values: Younger generations being more attracted to Western dance forms and popular culture, leading to a decline in interest in classical dances.

• Example: Hip-Hop Dance 

• Lack of Patronage: Insufficient financial support from governments, institutions, and art enthusiasts, hampering the training and performance opportunities for classical dancers.

• Example: Lack of financial support to classical dance like Kathakali and Bharatanatyam 

• Commercialization: Commercial pressures leading to modifications in classical dance performances to cater to popular tastes, impacting their originality and traditional essence.

• Example: Modern Kathak (Influence of Western Ideas)

• Limited Opportunities for Dancers: Classical dancers struggling to find regular performance platforms compared to more commercially driven dance forms.

• Preservation of Guru-Shishya Parampara: The guru-shishya tradition facing challenges due to a shortage of committed students and teachers, affecting the continuation of this knowledge transfer. 

• Social Stigma: Some classical dance forms facing social stigmas or prejudices, impacting their promotion and acceptance.

• Example: Prejudices idea related to Kathakali classical dance (For Higher Classes)  

• Globalization and Homogenization: The interconnected world poses a risk of cultural homogenization, potentially impacting the distinct identity and authenticity of classical dances.

• Example: Globalization give boost to television and films

• Technological Advancements: While technology can aid in promoting classical dances, it can also lead to distractions and changing audience preferences.

• Example: YouTube and OTT Platform 

• Educational Curriculum: The emphasis on STEM education leading to reduced focus on cultural subjects, including classical dances, in school curriculums. 

• Loss of Authenticity: Over time, the dilution of traditional techniques and practices can lead to a loss of authenticity in classical dance performances.

Tags:
History & Culture

Keywords:
Threat faced by Classical dance forms of India Classical dance Classical dances Modern Kathak Commercialization Globalization and Homogenization Bharatanatyam Kathak Odissi Kathakali Manipuri Kuchipudi Sattriya

Syllabus:
General Studies Paper 1

Topics:
Indian Heritage and Culture