Synopsis India is a fascinating country with plurality of ethnicity, cultures, religions and philosophy. Unsurprisingly this plurality extends to the arena of Unsurprisingly this plurality extends to the arena of classical dances having the distinction of being the only country with eight recognized classical dance forms, all of which are bound in the single thread of spirituality and philosophy radiating the fragrance of ‘Indianness’. Though many books on Indian classical dances are available, this book by Shovana Narayan can easily be described as the ‘book among books’ on Indian Classical dances for it is a comprehensive and detailed encyclopaedia on the eight recognized classical dance forms essaying the historical evolution and influences, characteristic identifying features, techniques and also the format of presentation in an evening’s programme of each style. This book also details the repertoire, texts utilized, accompanying music and musical instruments, costumes and make-up so characteristic of each dance form. This book with its exhaustive information and liberal use of photographs is a must for all. Some of the interesting nuggets of information prove to be eye-openers demolishing and demystifying few prevailing hypothesis.