HISTORY OF KATHAK

Kathak is a classical Indian dance form, originating in the temples of North India. It derives it's name from the Sanskrit word "Katha", or story. "Kathakars", the nomadic storytellers, used a combination of music, dance, and acting to narrate religious tales from the Hindu epics, MAHABHARATA and RAMAYANA.. Kathak's primary role, during that period, was to evoke devotion, "Bhakti" in the audience.

Rooted in the Hindu ethos, Kathak developed into its present, distinct classical form in the Mughal and Rajput courts. During the Mughal era, Kathak was transformed from a temple dance into a court dance, patronized by the Mughal emperors. The simple Hindu storytelling style was enhanced to reflect court entertainment etiquettes, which contributed to a high degree of formalization, adding style and a vivid sensuous quality to the dance. Rhythmic footwork, fast pirouettes, and subtle intricate movements became its signature.

Kathak today has two distinct styles, the Lucknow and the Jaipur gharana. While the Jaipur gharana emphasizes the technical mastery of pure dance and swift turns, the Lucknow gharana emphasizes expressive content including refined gesture and abhinaya (expression). Combining the devoutness of the Hindu temple with luscious entertainment from the Mughal and Rajput courts, the tradition of Kathak dance continues to evolve throughout the world in the twenty-first century. Enriched by contemporary literature, music and performance, Kathak responds to an increasingly global culture.

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