Mohiniyattam is the dance of The God’s own Country Kerala. Mohiniyattam means dance of Enchantress. It has a mesmorising effect with the half white costume with golden zari work with golden ornaments. It is performed with highly graceful movements with medium tempo which contributes to this aesthetic effect.
Mohiniyattam is characterized by swaying movements of the upper body with legs placed in a stance similar to the plie position. The eyes play an important role in accenting the direction of the movement.
Literature is found about Mohiniyattam in the texts of eighteenth century. The practical aspect of the style revived in the reign of Maharaja Swathi Tirunal, a ruler in 19th century who was a great art lover. With his effort it
became a solo dance tradition with musical compositions set in carnatic style of music.