Classical Dance in India : Kathak

One of the most major classical dances of North India is Kathak. The word" Kathak” signifies to tell a story. The story goes like this when in the olden days when the patronage transformed from the temple to the royal court, there was complete transformation in the overall emphasis in telling stories. The focus changed from religious stories to that of entertainment. Today, the story telling part remains with it and the dance holding the primary role.Introduction of Kathak

Primarily Kathak dance was associated with an institution called Tawaif. It is something like Ghesia tradition of Japan. Tawaif was a profession which would demand highest standards of training, intelligence and civility - to be able to learn Kathak. But when the Britishers came to rule India, giving Tawaif a bad name and that was the beginning of Tawaif into a downtrail spiral. But today after Independence struggle Kathak is regarded as one of the most renowned dance form which represents India. The costume of the dance is designed with lots of paint applied on the face of the artist.

The Music of Kathak

Kathak can be danced with a wide variety of music.

1. Slokas (Sanskrit / Hindi) and Bhajans (devotional songs for Hindu Gods and Goddesses). Please see the Lyrics of Bhajans.

2. Classical and Light Classical Songs e.g. Thumri, Dadra, Kajri, Hori. 

3. Pure Classical type e.g. Paran, Tukda, Gat Nikas, Jugalbandi (a friendly competition), Sawal-Jawab (footwork with tabla or pakhawaj) and demonstration of different Beats. You may consult Taalmala.

4. Film songs  preferably based on Ragas.

Significance

Kathak is an important form of dance, mainly popularized in northern part of India. Being an ancient form of art, it reflects the culture and traditions of our country. This dance form recites religious and mythological tales that are significant to our society.

Famous Personalities 

The country has produced many eminent Kathak artists that have not only revolutionized this dance style, but also have been an inspiration to many. Some of them such as Shovana Naryan, and Briju Maharaj etc are well-known names in the field of Kathak dance. They have given several shows and won many prestigious awards. There have been several Kathak dance festivals that are conducted throughout the globe. The NAAD festival of Kathak held in UK goes to show its growing popularity among the global audience. The Kathak Mahotsav held in Delhi every October is a mesmerizing sight that attracts huge numbf people.

Introduction of Kathak

One of the most major classical dances of North India is Kathak. The word" Kathak” signifies to tell a story. The story goes like this when in the olden days when the patronage transformed from the temple to the royal court, there was complete transformation in the overall emphasis in telling stories. The focus changed from religious stories to that of entertainment. Today, the story telling part remains with it and the dance holding the primary role.

Primarily Kathak dance was associated with an institution called Tawaif. It is something like Ghesia tradition of Japan. Tawaif was a profession which would demand highest standards of training, intelligence and civility - to be able to learn Kathak. But when the Britishers came to rule India, giving Tawaif a bad name and that was the beginning of Tawaif into a downtrail spiral. But today after Independence struggle Kathak is regarded as one of the most renowned dance form which represents India. The costume of the dance is designed with lots of paint applied on the face of the artist.

The Music of Kathak

Kathak can be danced with a wide variety of music.

1. Slokas (Sanskrit / Hindi) and Bhajans (devotional songs for Hindu Gods and Goddesses). Please see the Lyrics of Bhajans.

2. Classical and Light Classical Songs e.g. Thumri, Dadra, Kajri, Hori. 

3. Pure Classical type e.g. Paran, Tukda, Gat Nikas, Jugalbandi (a friendly competition), Sawal-Jawab (footwork with tabla or pakhawaj) and demonstration of different Beats. You may consult Taalmala.

4. Film songs  preferably based on Ragas.

Significance

Kathak is an important form of dance, mainly popularized in northern part of India. Being an ancient form of art, it reflects the culture and traditions of our country. This dance form recites religious and mythological tales that are significant to our society.

Famous Personalities 

The country has produced many eminent Kathak artists that have not only revolutionized this dance style, but also have been an inspiration to many. Some of them such as Shovana Naryan, and Briju Maharaj etc are well-known names in the field of Kathak dance. They have given several shows and won many prestigious awards. There have been several Kathak dance festivals that are conducted throughout the globe. The NAAD festival of Kathak held in UK goes to show its growing popularity among the global audience. The Kathak Mahotsav held in Delhi every October is a mesmerizing sight that attracts huge number of people.