Indian classical dance is a relatively new umbrella term for various codified art forms rooted in Natya, the sacred Hindu musical theatre styles, whose theory can be traced back to the Natya Shastra of Bharata Muni.
The Sangeet Natak Akademi currently confers classical status on eight Indian classical dance styles:
1. Bharatanatyam (Tamil Nadu)
2. Kathak (North India)
3. Kathakali (Kerala)
4. Kuchipudi (Andhra Pradesh)
5. Manipuri (Manipur)
6. Mohiniyattam (Kerala)
7. Odissi (Odisha)
8. Sattriya (Assam).