Indian classical music and dance finds place in the Hindu holy scriptures. It is very closely linked to religion and mythology.

Shiva,one of the Gods of the Hindu trinity has an incarnation in Nataraja who dances the world into existence as well as to destruction. The famous temple in Chidambaram, in Tamil Nadu is dedicated to this particular form of Shiva, which when translated means ‘king of dance.’ The famous classical dance forms in India are Bharatnatyam, Mohiniattam, Kuchipudi, Odissi, Manipuri, Kathak and Kathakali.  Indian classical music is divided into two distinct genres: Hindustani and Carnatic. Hindustani music has several different schools, all situated in northern India and which has been influenced by the Persian culture. Carnatic music comes from the south of the country and has a deep-rooted theory base. Both have very complex rhythm styles and are based on melody more than symphony. India also has a very rich tradition of folk music and theatre. Folk music mostly comes in the form of ballads and songs about harvests, conquests and romance. Similarly, folk dance forms are immensely popular. The best time to have a glimpse of the majority of folk dances, is during the country’s Republic Day Parade,on the 26th of January held every year in New Delhi.