Apsara (dancer)

Apsara dancers are mythical celestial nymphs from Hindu and Buddhist traditions, often depicted as elegant, divine women skilled in dance and music. In Indian classical art, particularly in temples like Angkor Wat, Apsaras symbolize beauty, grace, and spiritual harmony, performing ceremonial dances that depict stories from mythology. These dancers serve as icons of divine elegance, blending artistic expression with spiritual symbolism, and have historically played a significant role in temple rituals and cultural performances. Today, the term also refers to contemporary performers inspired by these ancient depictions, embodying both cultural heritage and artistic mastery.