Among the various dance forms in vogue in India are Bharatanatyam, Chakiar Koothu, Kathak, Kathakali, Krishnanattam, Kuchupudi, Manipuri, Mohiniattam, Odissi, Ottanthullal, and Yaksha Gana. Besides, there are hundreds of folk dance forms in every part of the country according to the culture and traditions of the particular area.

Kerala has evolved its typical dance forms from ancient days itself. These dance forms are very rich and highly expressive outlook of its people and their living style. Evidences dated back to 11th century sculptures on the walls of various temples at Trikkodithanam and Trivikama-mangalam. These sculptures shows women dancers performing Kudamkoothu(Pot Dance) and Kudaikoothu(Umbrella Dance). There are evidence of Bharat Natya postures among these sculptures.

Gita Govinda, the 12th century epic found its way into Kerala through Koodiyattam followed by Ashtapadi and later its reformed form Krishnanattam (Dance of Krishna). This dance forms became very popular in North Kerala. Ramanattam (Dance of Rama) is formed as an alternative to Krishnanattam and conceived by Raja of Kottarakkara. Attakatha in Malayalam is composed by him in 8 canto with Ramayana as its theme for staging this new dance form. Ramanattam is considered as the progenitor of Kerala's modern Kathakali.