Kathak derives from both the Natyashastra and the other classical forms of north India. The word kathak referred to the storyteller who could act, dance and play a musical instrument. He drew the audience into his world. The subject matter was and is the devotion and longing for Lord Krishna. The form developed and perfected through three centuries, the fifteenth to the eighteenth.

Gliding movements and the inherent grace required for them characterize Kathak, there are no jerky or angular gestures. The basic standing position for Kathak is a straight back, one arm held vertically while the other is extended at shoulder height. Many sequences entail the complex, fast-paced execution of dance steps while the body itself remains virtually still. Ghunghroo anklets (with 100 little bells) accentuate the footwork and the pirouettes. These two features of Kathak are the outstanding aspects of the dance. Drums and the sarangi (a string instrument) provide further music. The dancer usually performs with a singer on stage or in the wings.

Renowned exponents: Shambhu Maharaj, Birju Maharaj, Sitara Devi, Sunder Prasad, and Gopi Krishan.

 

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