A traditional dance form that originated in India based on the concept of storytelling, Kathakars told stories based on ancient myths and great Indian epics, mainly based on the life of Lord Krishna. It is one of the most elegant dance forms in the world.

1. KATHAK- A TRADITIONAL DANCE
FORM
Known as Kathak in the etymological sense, it is one of the eight significant genres of classical
Indian dance. It is named after the Vedic Sanskrit word Katha, which means "story." It is
generally believed that Kathak developed from the travels of North Indian traveling bards, or
Kathakas. A traditional dance form that originated in India based on the concept of storytelling,
Kathakars told stories based on ancient myths and great Indian epics, mainly based on the life of
Lord Krishna. It is one of the most elegant dance forms in the world.
In addition to smooth, graceful, and intricate movements of the feet, hand gestures, and
unmistakable facial expressions, Kathak has many diverse influences that can be seen in its
dancing.
History
Dance forms began to develop during the Bhakti Movement in North Indian kingdoms and
gradually became independent. Music, dance, and drama are blended in this art form that dates
back to 400 BCE. Natya Shastra, attributed to sage Bharata, is the earliest surviving text with
Kathak roots. When the vernaculars of North Indian villages shared their lives, Kathak
developed. Throughout the centuries, these Kathakkars or storytellers unraveled their art from
town to village and kingdom to kingdom. Occasionally, they visited temples in these areas to

2. relax and began to recreate stories from the great Indian epics while also adding a classical flair
to their art. As a result of the Pandits in the temples, Kathak evolved into mythology, god, and
goddess-based temple dance.
Persian Kings and Muslim Moghuls patronized this dance form throughout the medieval period.
It was time to move from the temple courtyard to the palace durbar.
Even though Britishers tried to put a stop to this dance form, the Hindu households, on the other
hand, continued their private tutoring and kept Kathak alive.
Traditional Instruments that support Kathak
Depending on the Kathak performers, the ensemble can include two to twelve classical Indian
instruments modified with manufactured parts. A tal (cycle) is metered by a pair of hand drums
called a tabla. Sarangi or harmoniums play along with manjira or hand cymbals. Some of the
most commonly used traditional musical instruments in Kathak performances include Duffli,
Pakhawaj, Sarod, and Bansuri, which add depth, structure, and effect to the ardent stage.
Performing Kathak with these instruments adds a different dimension to the art form.
Nritya and Nritta in Kathak
As part of Hindu dance traditions, Nritya expresses sentiments and storylines, mainly through
ethereal themes in Hindu dance traditions.
Nritta incorporates words, musical notes, and gestures in order to illuminate a legend or message.
Nrityas are more than sensory delights; they aim to captivate the viewer's mind and emotions.
We at Youkers offer a certification course in Kathak taught by one of the most renowned Kathak
dance teachers and mentors, which will prepare students for several different Kathak modules
such as Gatnikas, Seedhi Gats, Shlokas, Thumari, etc.
So if you want to learn this elegant dance form, get in touch with us at online hobby classes.