Sree Sankaracharya University of Sanskrit

About the Department

The Department of Mohiniyattam functions under the Faculty of Arts and Social Sciences and is dedicated to the preservation, propagation, and academic exploration of the classical dance form Mohiniyattam. The department traces its academic roots to 1995, when dance education was initiated at Sree Sankaracharya University of Sanskrit, Kalady. In 1997, the department was formally established, marking a significant milestone in institutional dance education.

Initially, foundation courses equivalent to pre-degree level were offered, followed by undergraduate programmes in Bharatanatyam and Mohiniyattam. Postgraduate studies commenced in 2003 with the introduction of the M.A. programme, and in 2004 the department expanded its academic horizon by launching the Ph.D. programme, thereby emerging as a centre for advanced research in classical dance.

In 2019, the Department of Mohiniyattam was established as an independent department, distinct from the Department of Dance, giving the discipline a separate academic identity and focused vision.

The department offers U.G, P.G, B.A Honours(FYUGP) and Ph.D. programmes in Mohiniyattam. The curriculum integrates rigorous practical training with theoretical studies, enabling students to gain in-depth knowledge of dance theory, performance techniques, stage aesthetics, and contemporary approaches. Classroom lectures are complemented by intensive practice sessions to ensure holistic artistic development.

The faculty comprises experienced and distinguished artistes, scholars, and performers who guide students through both traditional and modern perspectives of the art form. Students of the department have consistently excelled at university and national levels, winning accolades and recognition. Many alumni have gone on to become professional performers, educators, and researchers, serving as cultural ambassadors of Mohiniyattam across reputed institutions in India and abroad.

The department continues to uphold its commitment to excellence in dance education, research, and cultural outreach.

Programmes

BA

Type: UG

Duration: 3 Years

Evaluation: Marks

Intake: 22

Mode: Regular

Eligibility

PLUS TWO

Program Outcomes

PSO1 – Understand the history of Indian Classical Dances with special focus on Mohiniyattam, Gurus and performers; and develop critical thinking, analytical ability in the field of Performing arts
PSO2 – Understand the relevance of dance texts and analyze the practical aspects and to articulate them in performance; critically evaluate their practicability in the contemporary performance scenario; possess knowledge about the print & visual media of India.
PSO3 – Acquire the basic language skills of a minimum of three languages including the global language; get sensitized on major contemporary social issues through representative works in these languages; critically respond and effectively articulate the same in writing and speech.
PSO4 – Acquire knowledge about the Sapta talas and Chappu tala systems; create Korvais in Sapta talas & chappu talas and to apply the same in performance phases; get sensitized in choreographical features of Mohiniyattam.
PSO5- Analyze the grammar, structure, format and presentation of Mohiniyattam by understanding the aesthetics behind the fourfold Abinayana aspects and their application in Indian Classical dance and dance Music.
PSO6- Possess knowledge about the performance tradition of Kerala and analyze the structure, format and presentation of these art forms and to develop a spirit of enquiry with regard to the socio cultural influence on these art forms.
PSO7- Comprehend knowledge of folk arts of Kerala and possess knowledge about multi-cultural influence in the folklore studies.

Campus

Kalady

About the Program

B.A.Mohiniyattam is a Graduate Course in Dance. The Bachelor of Arts in Mohiniyattam is an academic degree focused on dance aesthetics, theory, history, cultural studies and educational perspectives. The programme focused on performance and choreography in an interdisciplinary environment.From basic lessons to advanced performing items are imparted through practical classes, and classroom Lectures cover theoretical part of the syllabus. The programme is to help the student's gain a detailed knowledge of various dance theory, knowledge of performance and different approaches .

View Syllabus

MA

Type: PG

Duration: 2 Years

Evaluation: Credit

Intake: 12

Mode: Regular

Eligibility

DEGREE

Program Outcomes

PSO1 – Understand the history of Indian Dance with special focus on Mohiniyattam, its styles, Gurus and institutions; and develop critical Thinking, analytical ability and research aptitude in the field of Performing arts
PSO2 – Apply acoustics, electrical and electronic appliances, and musical instruments associated with performance
PSO3 – Analyse the grammer, structure, format and presentation of Mohiniyattam by understanding Eastern and Western aesthetics and their application in Indian Classical dance and dance Music
PSO4 – Create Korvais in Sapta talas, chappu talas, sooladi talas and Kerala talas with the application of Nattuvangam

Campus

Kalady

About the Program

M.A.Mohiniyattam is a Post Graduate Course in Dance. The Master of Arts in Mohiniyattam is an academic degree focused on research – based activities related to dance aesthetics, theory, history, cultural studies and educational perspectives. The programme focused on performance and choreography in an interdisciplinary environment provides vigorous practice along with a step towards Ph.D. The courses in Mohiniyattam Techniques, choreography, pedagogy and fields related to artistic process enables a student to develop an individualized program of study that furthers their unique interests and prepares them as Performers, Scholars and teachers. This programme prepares the student to approach Dance studies Phenomena from different perspectives and develop skills of Critical thinking and self expression.

View Syllabus

BA Honours

Type: UG

Duration: 4 Years

Evaluation: Credit

Intake: 20

Mode: Regular

Eligibility

Plus Two

Program Outcomes

PSO 1: Demonstrate a deep understanding of Mohiniyattam, skilfully combining language, culture, and aesthetics and explore the connections between Mohiniyattam and various aspects of the human experience.
PSO 2: Engage in research on Mohiniyattam and contribute to its development and also showcase their adaptability by incorporating new elements into their performances, showing their commitment to artistic growth
PSO 3: Exhibit the necessary communication skills for effective presentations and teamwork in Mohiniyatam, to pursue successful careers.
PSO 4: Demonstrate ethical citizenship by advocating cultural comprehension and admiration via the art of Mohiniyattam and demonstrate leadership in the community by actively engaging with local communities and promoting the cultural significance of Mohiniyattam.
PSO 5: Engage in self-reflection and demonstrate a commitment to lifelong learning.

Campus

Kalady

About the Program

FYUGP allows students to choose between a 3 year ‘UG' degree or a 4 year ‘Honours’degree.FYUGP in Mohiniyattam is an academic degree focused on research – based activities related to dance pedagogy, aesthetics, theory, history, cultural studies and educational perspectives. The programme is focused on both theory and practical. The interdisciplinary environment provides vigorous practice along with a step towards Ph.D.

View Syllabus