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Kathak

Kathak is one among the eight classical dance forms in India. The name itself is derived from the Sanskrit word – Katha (Story). The narrator of a story is called Katthaka in Sanskrit. Hence this dance form which narrates a story through the expressions and body movements came to be called Kathak.

 

The dance form of Kathak has three main schools which have their own unique style and instruments. The schools known as Gharanas are Lucknow Gharana, Banaras Gharana and Jaipur Gharana.

 

As per the literary records at Kameshwar library at Mithila, Kathak had it’s origin in the 3rd or 4th century BC. Even mythological stories like the Mahabharata talk about Kathak. It was during the Mughal era; in 16th century A.D. that Kathak received Royal patronage and elements of fusion from other dance forms like the Persian dance form wherein the art of straight leg movements was introduced as also the spinning movement. During early 20th century, Kalka Prasad Maharaj, a decendent of Thakur Prasad Maharaj brought Kathak back on to the world stage. His work was carried forward by his following generations including the world renowned Pandit Birju Maharaj.

Benefits of Kathak

Kathak is one among the eight classical dance forms in India. The name itself is derived from the Sanskrit word – Katha (Story). The narrator of a story is called Katthaka in Sanskrit. Hence this dance form which narrates a story through the expressions and body movements came to be called Kathak.

 

The dance form of Kathak has three main schools which have their own unique style and instruments. The schools known as Gharanas are Lucknow Gharana, Banaras Gharana and Jaipur Gharana.

 

As per the literary records at Kameshwar library at Mithila, Kathak had it’s origin in the 3rd or 4th century BC. Even mythological stories like the Mahabharata talk about Kathak. It was during the Mughal era; in 16th century A.D. that Kathak received Royal patronage and elements of fusion from other dance forms like the Persian dance form wherein the art of straight leg movements was introduced as also the spinning movement. During early 20th century, Kalka Prasad Maharaj, a decendent of Thakur Prasad Maharaj brought Kathak back on to the world stage. His work was carried forward by his following generations including the world renowned Pandit Birju Maharaj.

Benefits of Kathak