In 2018, Google Doodle celebrated the 100th birthday of Mrinalini Sarabhai. She is an exponent of which of the following dance forms?

The correct answer is Bharatanatyam and Kathakali.

On May 11, 2018, Google celebrated the 100th birth anniversary of the legendary Indian classical dancer Mrinalini Sarabhai with a special Google Doodle. The doodle beautifully depicted her graceful dance postures, honoring her immense contribution to Indian classical dance.

Who was Mrinalini Sarabhai?
Mrinalini Sarabhai (May 11, 1918 – January 21, 2016) was one of India's most celebrated and respected classical dancers. She was also the wife of the renowned space scientist Dr. Vikram Sarabhai, often called the father of India's space program.

Her Dance Forms:
Mrinalini Sarabhai was a highly trained and distinguished exponent of two major Indian classical dance forms:

1. Bharatanatyam
This is one of the oldest and most popular classical dance forms of India, originating from the state of Tamil Nadu. It is known for its fixed upper torso, bent legs, intricate footwork, expressive gestures (mudras), and detailed facial expressions (abhinaya). Mrinalini received training in Bharatanatyam from the legendary guru Meenakshisundaram Pillai.

2. Kathakali
Kathakali is a classical dance-drama that originates from the state of Kerala. It is known for its highly stylized, elaborate costumes, ornate makeup, and vivid facial expressions depicting stories from Hindu epics such as the Ramayana and Mahabharata. Mrinalini trained in Kathakali under Guru Thakazhi Kusavan Pillai, becoming one of the very few women to master this art form, which was traditionally performed only by men.

Her Legacy:
Mrinalini Sarabhai founded the prestigious Darpana Academy of Performing Arts in Ahmedabad, Gujarat in 1949, which became a premier institution for the training and promotion of Indian classical dance and drama. She was awarded India's highest civilian honors including the Padma Bhushan and the Padma Vibhushan for her extraordinary contributions to Indian culture and performing arts.

Thus, among the given options, Bharatanatyam and Kathakali is the correct answer, as these are the two classical dance forms in which Mrinalini Sarabhai was a renowned exponent and practitioner.