NCERT Class 8 Arts Kriti: Chapter 12 — Dance for Well-being
This chapter, "Well-being," from NCERT Class 8 Arts Kriti, explores communicating and expressing emotions through various forms, particularly focusing on dance and hand gestures (hastas). It revisits the concept of hand gestures learned in previous grades, emphasizing their role in communication and storytelling. The chapter introduces the Abhinaya Darpanam, a Sanskrit text by Nandikeśhvara, which details numerous single-hand gestures (asamyuta hastas) and combined hand gestures (samyuta hastas). Activity 12.1 encourages students to practice reciting the hasta shloka while performing the gestures. This chapter helps students understand non-verbal communication and its cultural significance in expressing emotions, enhancing their artistic and expressive skills.
Quick info
| Board | CBSE / NCERT |
|---|---|
| Class | Class 8 |
| Subject | Arts |
| Book | Kriti |
| Chapter | Chapter 12 — Dance for Well-being |
| Language | English |
| PDF type | NCERT Textbook |
| Session | CBSE 2026 |
| Reading time | 2 minutes |
| Word count | 315 |
Learning outcomes
- Understand the concept of well-being through artistic expression.
- Identify and practice various single-hand (asamyuta) and combined-hand (samyuta) gestures.
- Recognize the role of hand gestures in communicating emotions and telling stories.
- Appreciate the cultural significance of dance and gestures as a form of expression.
Vocabulary
| Word | Meaning |
|---|---|
| Hastas | Hand gestures, particularly in Indian classical dance. |
| Asamyuta Hastas | Single-hand gestures. |
| Samyuta Hastas | Combined or double-hand gestures. |
| Abhinaya Darpanam | A Sanskrit text on the art of classical Indian dance, detailing gestures and expressions. |
| Nandikeśhvara | The author of the Abhinaya Darpanam. |
| Shloka | A verse or stanza in Sanskrit. |
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Practice questions
- What is the difference between Asamyuta Hastas and Samyuta Hastas? Answer: Asamyuta Hastas are gestures made with a single hand, while Samyuta Hastas are gestures made with both hands.
- Which text is mentioned for describing hand gestures in Sanskrit? Answer: The Abhinaya Darpanam by Nandikeśhvara is mentioned for describing hand gestures in Sanskrit.
- How can hand gestures help in communication? Answer: Hand gestures can convey meaning, express emotions, and help in telling a story without words.
Frequently asked questions
What is the main theme of NCERT Class 8 Arts Kriti Chapter 12?
The chapter focuses on 'Well-being' by exploring how emotions can be communicated and expressed, particularly through dance and hand gestures.
What are Asamyuta Hastas?
Asamyuta Hastas are gestures made using a single hand, as described in the Abhinaya Darpanam.
What are Samyuta Hastas?
Samyuta Hastas are gestures made using both hands together, also detailed in the Abhinaya Darpanam.
What is the Abhinaya Darpanam?
It is an ancient Sanskrit text by Nandikeśhvara that describes various hand gestures and their meanings in Indian classical dance.
How does this chapter relate to well-being?
By learning to express emotions through art forms like dance and gestures, students can enhance their emotional well-being and communication skills.
What activity is suggested in this chapter?
Activity 12.1 suggests reciting a hasta shloka while performing the corresponding hand gestures.
Related resources
Important topics
Topics covered
NCERT Class 8 Arts — Kriti — Chapter 12 — Dance for Well-being. Verified by NCERT Help Editorial Team. Reviewed on 29 Jul 2026. Last updated 10 Aug 2026.