Known as Kathak in the etymological sense, it is one of the eight significant genres of classical Indian dance. It is named after the Vedic Sanskrit word Katha, which means "story." It is generally believed that Kathak developed from the travels of North Indian traveling bards, or Kathakas. A traditional dance form that originated in India based on the concept of storytelling, Kathakars told stories based on ancient myths and great Indian epics, mainly based on the life of Lord Krishna. It is one of the most elegant dance forms in the world.
In addition to smooth, graceful, and
intricate movements of the feet, hand gestures, and unmistakable facial
expressions, Kathak has many diverse influences that can be seen in its
dancing.
History
Dance forms began to develop during
the Bhakti Movement in North Indian kingdoms and gradually became independent.
Music, dance, and drama are blended in this art form that dates back to 400
BCE. Natya Shastra, attributed to sage Bharata, is the earliest surviving text
with Kathak roots. When the vernaculars of North Indian villages shared their
lives, Kathak developed. Throughout the centuries, these Kathakkars or
storytellers unraveled their art from town to village and kingdom to kingdom.
Occasionally, they visited temples in these areas to relax and began to
recreate stories from the great Indian epics while also adding a classical
flair to their art. As a result of the Pandits in the temples, Kathak evolved
into mythology, god, and goddess-based temple dance.
Persian Kings and Muslim Moghuls
patronized this dance form throughout the medieval period. It was time to move
from the temple courtyard to the palace durbar.
Even though Britishers tried to put a
stop to this dance form, the Hindu households, on the other hand, continued
their private tutoring and kept Kathak alive.
Traditional Instruments that
support Kathak
Depending on the Kathak performers,
the ensemble can include two to twelve classical Indian instruments modified
with manufactured parts. A tal (cycle) is metered by a pair of hand drums
called a tabla. Sarangi or harmoniums play along with manjira or hand cymbals.
Some of the most commonly used traditional musical instruments in Kathak
performances include Duffli, Pakhawaj, Sarod, and Bansuri, which add depth, structure,
and effect to the ardent stage. Performing Kathak with these instruments adds a
different dimension to the art form.
Nritya and Nritta in Kathak
As part of Hindu dance traditions,
Nritya expresses sentiments and storylines, mainly through ethereal themes in
Hindu dance traditions.
Nritta incorporates words, musical
notes, and gestures in order to illuminate a legend or message. Nrityas are
more than sensory delights; they aim to captivate the viewer's mind and
emotions.
We at Youkers offer a certification
course in Kathak taught by one of the most renowned Kathak dance teachers and
mentors, which will prepare students for several different Kathak modules such
as Gatnikas, Seedhi Gats, Shlokas, Thumari, etc.
So if you want to learn this elegant
dance form, get in touch with us at online hobby classes.
