Difference between Bollywood Dance and Hip Hop Dance is a form of expression that is characterized by culture, emotion, as well as lifestyle. In these various forms, some of the popular dance styles that can be found today in India for instance include Bollywood, Hip Hop, among many others. However, many individuals who choose to learn these styles always seem to be confused about the difference between the two.
At The Music And Dance School, we often guide students through this decision. This blog is going to help you grasp the roots, styles, methods and advantages of both types of dance so you can make the correct decision.
Understanding the Difference between Bollywood Dance and Hip Hop
The Difference between Bollywood and hip hop can be pointed out based on origin, style of movement, cultural background and expression. Bollywood is based in the Indian cinema and culture, whereas hip hop is based in Western street culture.
Both styles are energetic and expressive, but they communicate emotions in very different ways.
What is Bollywood Dance?
Indian film dance or Bollywood dance for short, is a dynamic dance form choreographed to Indian film songs. Bollywood dance combines classical dances of India like Kathak and Bharatanatyam with folk dances like Bhangra and Garba or with Western dance styles like Jazz and Freestyle.
Bollywood dance as taught in The Music And Dance School is a complete performance art which focuses on ‘abhinaya’ or ‘expressions’, telling stories and rhythm.
What is Hip Hop Dance?
To understand the Difference between Bollywood dance and hip-hop. it is necessary to know what Hip Hop is. This dance form began in the United States during the 1970s and relates to street culture with music and free style movements.
When questioned about “Which among these dances is hip hop?”, one has to include breaking, popping, locking, or freestyle dancing. Hip hop emphasizes more on attitude, sharp movements and individuality rather than narrative storytelling.
Origin and Cultural Background One of the biggest points of Difference between Bollywood dance and hip hop is their cultural origin.
Bollywood dance has roots in Indian movies and is a reflection of Indian culture and Indian festivals in a traditional manner, But Hip Hop dance is a reflection of freedom in a rebellious manner.
This significantly affects the way each of these dances appears on stage.
Movement Style and Technique
The Difference between Bollywood dance and hip hop can be clearly seen in movement patterns.
Bollywood dance uses:
- Graceful hand movements
- Facial expressions (abhinaya)
- Story-based choreography
Hip Hop dance includes:
- Sharp and powerful movements
- Isolations and body control
- Freestyle and improvisation
Because of this, Bollywood dance is often considered more expressive, while Hip Hop is more rhythm driven.
Music and Rhythm
Music is one of the essential factors which define the Bollywood dance from the Hip Hop dance.
It is danced to the songs from Hindi films, which include music, emotions and beats. Hip Hop is danced to rap, R&B and electronic beats, which include strong patterns of rhythm. Students at The Music And Dance School are trained to understand musical timing in both styles before mastering choreography.
Learning Style and Flexibility
Another significant Difference Between Bollywood Dance and Hip Hop is that of learning dance.
Bollywood dances usually involve choreographed steps where the group performs similar movements. Hip Hop is relatively free and the performers are encouraged to incorporate their own moves.
This explains why Hip Hop is popular among teenagers and young individuals, while Bollywood dance is popular among all age groups.
Fitness and Physique Advantages
When comparing the Difference between Bollywood Dance and Hip-Hop, both types are excellent for fitness purposes.
Bollywood dance improves:
- Flexibility
- Coordination
- Emotional expression
Hip Hop dance enhances:
- Stamina
- Muscle strength
- Body balance
Depending on your fitness goals, either style can be a great choice.
Which Dance Should You Choose?
Difference between Bollywood Dance and Hip Hop helps you choose what suits you best.
Love Indian music and culture
Enjoy expressive movements
Want to perform at weddings or stage shows
Choose Hip Hop if you:
Prefer modern, street-style dance
Enjoy freestyle movement
Want high-energy workouts
At The Music And Dance School, students can explore both styles before deciding.
Difference between Bollywood Dance and Hip Hop Culture in Modern Day India
Nowadays, most choreographers mix these two types of dance, but the Difference between Bollywood dance and hip- hop still stands out.
If you are interested in exploring dance education in India, you can also check our Website on Indian dance styles for beginners and you would like a more cultural view, you could also look at the history behind Bollywood dances on the site Wikipedia.
Conclusion
The difference between Bollywood dance and hip hop does not lie in which one is better, it’s more of a matter of which one fits your personality, culture and goals. Bollywood dance connects you with Indian traditions, while Hip Hop empowers you with confidence and individuality.
At The Music And Dance School, we believe every dance form has its own beauty and learning dance should always be joyful and fulfilling.
FAQs – Difference between Bollywood Dance and Hip Hop
A fusion dance style of Indian origin, Bollywood dance combines classical, folk, as well as modern dance formats with storytelling.
Hip Hop encompasses various forms of street dances like breaking, popping & locking, lock popping or freestyle dancing set to rhythmic urban music.
Prabhu Deva is popularly known as the father of Bollywood dance for his revolutionary choreography in the world of Indian cinema.
The eight famous classical dances of India are Odissi, Manipuri, Kuchipudi, Bharatanatyam, Kathak, Mohiniyatt
Bollywood dance is believed to be relatively easier for beginners to learn compared to Hip Hop dances that require more muscle power to be executed.