Performing Masculinity, Gender, Caste and Class in Indian Classical Dance

Author(s)	Kiya Shah
Country	India
Abstract	This paper explores how male dancers in Indian classical forms like Bharatanatyam and Odissi navigate gender norms within performance spaces. The study investigates how perceptions of masculinity intersect with caste and class to shape the experiences and reception of these dancers. Although classical dance is widely celebrated as part of India’s cultural heritage, prior research highlights its deep entanglement with caste privilege and gendered expectations. Using Connell’s theory of hegemonic masculinity and Butler’s concept of gender performativity, the study examines how these identities are negotiated in a traditionally feminized art form. Based on an online survey of 72 participants, including both quantitative and open-ended responses, findings show that male dancers often face gendered scrutiny, and that caste and class significantly influence public perceptions and access to opportunities. The research highlights the need for institutional reforms and broader cultural shifts to support gender and caste inclusivity in classical dance.
Field	Sociology
Published In	Volume 8, Issue 3, May-June 2026
Published On	2026-05-26

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