Which classical dance form uses storytelling through hand gestures (mudras) and facial expressions (abhinaya)?

Correct option is D

Correct Answer: D (Bharatnatyam)
Explanation:
· Bharatnatyam, a classical dance from Tamil Nadu, is famous for using mudras (hand gestures) and abhinaya (facial expressions) to depict stories, usually based on Hindu epics like Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Puranas.
· It is one of the oldest classical dance forms of India.
Information Booster:
· Originated in temples of Tamil Nadu as a form of devotional expression.
· Recognized as one of the 8 classical dances of India by Sangeet Natak Akademi.
· Major elements: Nritta (pure dance), Nritya (expressive dance), and Natya (dramatic storytelling).
· Music: Performed to Carnatic classical music.
· Costumes: Bright silk sarees with jewelry and ghungroos.
Additional Knowledge:
· (a) Bihu: Folk dance of Assam, performed during Bihu festival, not classical.
· (b) Koli: Folk dance of Maharashtra by fishermen community, uses oar movements.
· (c) Garba: Folk dance of Gujarat, performed during Navratri with circular movements.