Ritual dances in India are deeply intertwined with religious and cultural practices, often performed as part of ceremonies, festivals, and spiritual rituals. Here’s a list of some prominent ritual dances from different regions of India:

1. Kathakali:

• Region: Kerala
• Description: Kathakali is a highly stylized classical dance form known for its elaborate costumes, intricate makeup, and expressive movements. It often depicts stories from Hindu mythology and epics such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata.

2. Mohiniyattam:

• Region: Kerala
• Description: Mohiniyattam is a classical dance form characterized by graceful movements, subtle expressions, and lyrical gestures. It is performed by women and often portrays stories of love and devotion to Hindu gods and goddesses.

3. Theyyam:

• Region: Kerala
• Description: Theyyam is a ritualistic dance form performed in the Malabar region of Kerala. It involves elaborate costumes, body painting, and ceremonial rituals, with performers embodying various deities and spirits.

4. Bharatanatyam:

• Region: Tamil Nadu
• Description: Bharatanatyam is one of the oldest classical dance forms of India, known for its precise footwork, intricate hand gestures (mudras), and expressive facial expressions. It often depicts stories from Hindu mythology and spiritual themes.

5. Odissi:

• Region: Odisha
• Description: Odissi is a classical dance form originating from the state of Odisha. It is characterized by fluid movements, graceful poses, and intricate footwork, often depicting stories from Hindu mythology and temple traditions.

6. Manipuri:

• Region: Manipur
• Description: Manipuri is a classical dance form from Manipur, characterized by its gentle, graceful movements, and spiritual themes. It often incorporates elements of martial arts and is performed as part of religious ceremonies and festivals.

7. Chhau:

• Region: West Bengal, Odisha, Jharkhand
• Description: Chhau is a traditional martial dance form that originated in eastern India. It combines elements of dance, drama, and mock combat, often performed as part of religious rituals and festivals.

8. Yakshagana:

• Region: Karnataka
• Description: Yakshagana is a traditional dance drama form performed in Karnataka. It combines elements of dance, music, dialogue, and elaborate costumes, depicting stories from Hindu mythology and folklore.

9. Sattriya:

• Region: Assam
• Description: Sattriya is a classical dance form from Assam, traditionally performed by male monks (bhokots) in monasteries (sattras). It often portrays stories from Hindu mythology and is performed as part of religious rituals and festivals.

10. Bhuta Nritya:

• Region: Coastal Karnataka, Kerala
• Description: Bhuta Nritya is a ritualistic dance form performed to appease local deities and spirits. It often involves trance-like movements, elaborate masks, and ritualistic practices, reflecting the region’s folk traditions and beliefs.

These ritual dances are integral to the cultural and religious fabric of India, embodying centuries-old traditions, spiritual beliefs, and artistic expressions.