Mohiniyattam (Mohiniattam)

• Mohiniyattam (Mohiniattam) from Kerala in south India derives its name from two words, ‘mohini’, meaning enchantress and ‘attam’, graceful dance. 
• So it basically means the dance of the enchantress and hence, is performed only by women. 
• Mythology has it that once Lord Vishnu disguised as Mohini to lure the asuras (demons) away from amrit (nectar of immortality) which surfaced during the churning of the ocean. 
• In another story, Lord Vishnu appeared as Mohini to save Lord Shiva from the demon Bhamasura. 
• While mention of the dance can be found in ancient texts, Mohiniattam got a new lease of life in 19th century in the court of the enlightened ruler of Travancore, Swathi Thirunal. He promoted the study of the dance and composed many musical arrangements as a background for the dancers. 
• Malayalam poet Vallathol, who set up Kerala Kalamandalam in 1930, also played an important role in reviving the dance form.