Kathak is one of the five main forms of Indian classical dance but enjoys unique distinctions that set it apart. It is the only classical Indian dance performed with Hindustani (North Indian) music and the only one tied to Muslim culture.
The term "Kathak" derives from the root *Katha*, meaning "story," as Kathaks were originally storytellers, similar to the *Sutas* in the *Mahabharata* or the ancestors of Kathakali performers. Initially, Kathaks accompanied their narratives with simple gestures. Influenced by the Bhakti movement, Kathak integrated elements from the *Ras Lila*, a popular theatrical tradition celebrating the divine love of Krishna and Radha. Over time, Kathak evolved from its Hindu roots into an art form that flourished in the Muslim Mughal courts, where it emphasized entertainment and virtuosic solo performances.
Under the patronage of Muslim nawabs and Hindu rajas, Kathak became the dominant classical dance of northern India by the late 19th century. It developed distinct styles or *gharanas* (schools), though today its style is becoming more standardized.
In its traditional form, only two instruments are essential: the *sarangi* (a bowed instrument) and the *tabla*. Dancers also wear *ghunghru*—small bells tied around their ankles in multiple rows. A hallmark of Kathak is its intricate footwork, often highlighted in rhythmic dialogues between the dancer and the tabla player. These exchanges combine voice syllables, foot movements, and drum beats, creating a dynamic interplay of rhythm and virtuosity.
Kathak also includes *nritta* (pure dance) characterized by rapid footwork and spins (*chakars*), performed in multiples of three and ending in static, poised poses. The expressive aspect, *abhinaya* (mimetic dance), focuses on storytelling, particularly themes from Krishna and Radha's lore. This involves subtle facial expressions, gestures, and minimal movement, often performed to poetic verses in the *Thumri* style.
For Western audiences, Kathak requires careful attention, as its association with popular Indian cinema can mislead perceptions. Historically, Kathak was linked to the *nautch* dancers of the Mughal harems, adding a sensual element. However, the male tradition of Kathak performers preserved its artistic purity, blending its Hindu religious origins with the elegance of Mughal court culture. Modern codifications of Kathak draw from this rich legacy, maintaining its dual heritage of devotion and refinement.
