An Introduction to Kathak- An Indian Classical Dance

Kathak is an Indian classical dance form originating from travelers in North India, specifically from the state of Uttar Pradesh. These travelers were called “Kathakars” or storytellers who traveled and told stories through dance, evolving into the dance form called Kathak. The word Kathak originates from the Sanskrit word “katha,” which means story. The story is told through body movements, facial expressions, and footwork. Kathak is performed in various taals and features beads around the ankles called gungaroos. Kathak has been preserved through oral tradition, passed down from one generation to another verbally and through practice.

Kathak has two main components: Nritta (the technical pieces) and Nritya (the aspect with abhinaya). Nritta heavily relies on the element of tala, which is essentially a measure of time that organizes rhythm. Tala is essential for the rhythm and beats behind all technical items, including Gat Nikas, Bant, Todas, Kavitta, Ladi, Tarana, Thaat, Salami, Amad, Parans, Paltas, Thais, and Padhant.

Tala, which means clap, is a measure of time that organizes rhythm in Hindustani Classical Music. There are many taals, such as Teental, Ektaal, Jhaptaal, Dadra, etc., each with different characteristics like bols (syllables). Each taal has three main elements: the sam, Tali, and Khali. There are also three main layas (tempos): dhrut laya (fast speed), madhya (medium speed), and vilambit (slow speed).

Abhinaya is the ability of a performer to convey emotions to the audience. This is a major part of dance, as it communicates the feeling of the item being performed. The concept of abhinaya originates from Bharat Muni’s Natyashastra, which contains the theoretical framework of dance. Dated to 200 BCE or 200 CE, it explains how emotions and narratives should be conveyed through dance. There is also influence from the Yajur Veda, which discusses ritualistic movements and gestures. Abhinaya is present in all Indian classical dance forms and includes four aspects: Aangika (use of body movements), Vachika (use of speech), Aaharya (use of external decoration), and Satvika (expression from the dancer). A performance that incorporates all four aspects of abhinaya is considered complete.

Satvika abhinaya includes two of the most important elements in a Kathak performance: Bhava and Rasa. For a dancer, evoking Rasa is a crucial and vital element of their performance. Bhava and Rasa are complementary terms; Rasa represents the emotional flavor, such as shanta (peace), bhayanaka (fear), or vira (heroism). Bhava is the mood that suits that flavor and expresses feelings like joy, sorrow, love, and anger. In other words, it helps the audience enjoy the performance by allowing them to feel Bhava and experience Rasa, the sentiment.

Overall, this covers the origins of Kathak and some of its attributes.