UPSC Prelims 1997 · General Studies
Question 59: History and Culture
Which one of the following dances involves solo performance?
AnswerThe answer is (a).
Bharatanatyam is the classic solo dance of Tamil Nadu, traditionally performed by a single dancer (the sadir of the temple dancers), who tells a story through hand gestures, expression and footwork. Kuchipudi was originally a dance-drama performed by troupes. Mohiniattam and Odissi are also commonly danced as solos, so the key picks Bharatanatyam as the best-known case.
Why each option is right or wrong
- (a) Right: Bharatanatyam is the classic solo dance.
- (b) Kuchipudi began as a dance-drama performed by groups, though solo items are now common.
- (c) Mohiniattam is also usually performed as a solo by a woman dancer.
- (d) Odissi is often performed solo too, though group items are common.
Worth knowing: Mohiniattam and Odissi are also traditionally solo forms, so the options are not cleanly separated; the key goes with Bharatanatyam.
Explanation: written by UPSC Grade, not by UPSC.
Source: UPSC, Civil Services (Preliminary) Examination 1997, General Studies. UPSC's own paper isn't online; the words are from a published compilation. The paper on upsc.gov.in.