Kathak

The term 'Kathak' has been derived form the Sanskrit word 'Katha', which means a story. The classical Indian dance form of Kathak originated in the northern regions of the country and is narrative in nature. Fast footwork (tatkar), spins (chakkar) and innovative use of bhav in abhinaya characterize Kathak. Kathak, as it is practiced today, was affected by the mythological narratives by kathakas, temple dances, the bhakti movement and even Persian influence of the Mughal courts.

Modern Dance Forms
In the present times, Kathak art of India includes the representation of the three phases of life, namely creation (symbolized by Lord Brahma), preservation (symbolized by Lord Vishnu) and destruction (symbolized by Lord Shiva). The tempo of the dance moves from slow to fast, with the end being quite dramatic. Kathak also comprises of compositions that include only footwork. Bols (rhythmic words) form a major part of almost all the Kathak compositions. The bols can either be taken from the sounds of the tabla or can be a dance variety also.

A shorter version of the Kathak dance is known as 'Tukra', while the longer version is known as 'Tora'. Tukras bring specific aspects of the dance into the forefront and are usually executed on the heel. At the end of the Tukra, the dancer takes a number of spins, which are executed at a great speed. The other compositions of Kathak can be sub divided into the following categories:

History of Kathak
Kathak dance form evolved in the ancient times, from the performances of professional storytellers, known as kathakas. They used to narrate stories, while dancing and singing at the same time. The tradition was passed on from generation to generation. The development of Kathak continued since and it was around the 13th century that a distinct style emerged. With time, features like mnemonic syllables and bol started developing. The Bhakti movement of the 15th-16th century also had an impact on the dance form.

With the introduction of Kathak in the Mughal court, Persian influences also started having an impact on it. A social class of dancers and courtiers emerged in the royal palaces and dance became a form of entertainment, rather than worship. An exchange of ideas started taking place between the Indian dancers and those from the Middle East. Then, began the gradual shift of Kathak from the other traditional dances. The characteristic 'chakkars' (spins) were introduced in the dance form around this time only.

The British Raj
During the British Rule in India, Kathak experienced a sharp decline in its popularity. It was denounced by the Victorian administrators as a vulgar form of entertainment and associated solely with the tawaifs (prostitutes).

Schools (Gharanas)
The different styles of Kathak in the pre-independence period developed into the different schools (gharans), namely

Lucknow Gharana
The Lucknow Gharana developed in the courts of the Nawab of Oudh of Lucknow. Nazakat (delicacy), khubsurti (beauty) and abhinaya (acting) characterize the Lucknow School.

Jaipur Gharana
The Jaipur Gharana developed in the courts of the Kachchwaha kings of Jaipur. Strong rhythmic elements and different talas, characterize the Jaipur School.

Benaras Gharana
The Benaras Gharana developed in the courts of Janakiprasad. Natwari bols and minimal chakkars characterize the Benaras School.

Raigarh Gharana
The Raigarh Gharana is a sort of an amalgamation of the Lucknow, Jaipur and Benaras Gharana.

The dance form of Kathak regained its popularity after the country gained independence and today, it is recognized, throughout the world, as one of the seven classical dance forms of India.