Kathak, a dance form of north India, derives its name from katha (story) since it originated from the devotional recitation by story-tellers or kathakars, who were attached to temples. The kathakars used to tell the story through music and dance. Douring medieval period it recived special patronage from both the Mughal and Hindu rulers.
The Kathak presentation is divided into three distinct parts: the natya (drama), the nritta (pure dance) and the nritya (expression,mimetic). While nritta is a logical extension of words and imagery of movements, inclusion of the natya to the dance gives it substance. Nritya combines dancing and action while interpreting the story. In delineation of these aspects, the rasa or emotion charges the atmosphere radiating ananda (bliss) on union with god. Known for its intricate compositions, rapid chakkars or bhramaris (pirouettes), complex tatkar
(footwork) and stylised facial expressions, Kathak hails from three gharanas-Banaras, Luckow and jaipur. While the jaipur gharana focuses on layakari or rhythmic permutations, the Lucknow gharana expounds on bhava or moods and emotions with graceful movement and delicate placing of hands. This dance style was influenced by the Awadh royalty.
The costume of Kathak dancer resembles the dress worn by figures in mughal miniature paintings and the dance is performed by both men and women.
Inextricably tied to Hindustani music, the dance revolves around the Radha and krishna themes. The dancer dances with 200 ghungroos (bells on the feet) and the musical accompaniments are the sarangi and tabla. This dance form has gliding movements with no jerky or angular gestures. With a straight back, one arm is held vertically while the other is extended at shoulder hight. While the body remains still,the dancer executes fast-paced dance steps. Traditionally a solo dance, it lends itself to group compositions too, as in Rasleela a vrindaban which is an expression of operatic treatment. Items revolving around the themes of nava-rasas (nine moods) and the ashta-nayikas (eight states of maiden in love) are part of abhinaya.
The Most well-known performers of Kathak today are Guru Birju Maharaj and Shovana Narain.
