Dance in India encompasses a multitude of styles, broadly categorized as classical or folk, each originating from different regions with influences from local traditions and other parts of the country. The Sangeet Natya Academy recognizes eight classical dances, rooted in the Natya Shastra and Hindu religious performance arts. Folk dances are diverse, varying based on local traditions, ethnicity, and geography. Additionally, contemporary dance forms blend classical, folk, and Western elements. India's dance traditions extend their influence not only over South Asia but also Southeast Asia. Indian film dances, especially in Bollywood, are renowned for their freeform expression and play a vital role in the subcontinent's popular culture.

Proficiency in languages like Sanskrit, Tamil, Telugu, Oriya, Meitei, Persian, or Arabic is highly esteemed for learning dances, particularly classical ones, providing access to essential textual materials.

Classical dance adheres to documented practices traceable to ancient texts like the Natya Shastra, involving a guru-shishya parampara (teacher-disciple tradition) and comprehensive training. Folk dances are oral traditions passed down through generations, while semi-classical dances bear a classical imprint but have transformed into folk forms. Tribal dances, specific to certain populations, often evolve into folk dances over time.

The roots of dance in India trace back to ancient times, depicted in cave paintings and sculptures. The Vedas integrate rituals with performance arts, using dialogue and dramatic representation. Natasutras, mentioned in Panini's text, and Natya Shastra, attributed to sage Bharata, are early texts related to dance and performance arts.

Classical dance in India constitutes a type of dance-drama, acting out stories through gestures. Enacting tales from Hindu mythology, each form represents a region or community's culture. Adherence to Natyashastra's guidelines confers classical status on eight styles recognized by the Sangeet Natak Akademi.

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Bharatanatyam: Originating in Tamil Nadu, it is a solo dance accompanied by Carnatic music.
Kathakali: A colorful dance-drama from Kerala, narrating stories with elaborate make-up and costumes.
Kathak: Evolving from ancient northern India, it emphasizes rhythmic foot movements and storytelling.
Kuchipudi: Originating in Andhra Pradesh, it includes pure dance and expressive elements.
Odissi: Originating in Odisha, it expresses religious stories through symbolic costumes and movements.
Sattriya: Emerging from Assam's Vaishnavism monasteries, it combines dance, drama, and ballads.
Manipuri: Originating in Manipur, it includes the Ras Lila dance, a love-inspired dance drama.
Mohiniyattam: Originating in Kerala, it follows the Lasya style with delicate movements and feminine grace.

Folk dances in India, integral to rural life, depict daily activities and rituals. Each state boasts unique folk dances, while tribal dances are inspired by ethnic folklore, representing distinct myths, legends, and cultural practices. The dances utilize local instruments and convey regional variations influenced by factors like geography, religious affiliations, and festivals.

A variety of tribal dances, classified by territory, demonstrate the cultural diversity across different regions of India.

This rich tapestry of dances in India reflects the nation's cultural diversity, capturing stories, traditions, and the essence of various communities.