Kathak: Rhythmic Dance of Uttar Pradesh

Introduction

Kathak is a classical dance form characterized by intricate footwork, graceful gestures, and storytelling through rhythmic movements. It evolved in the courts of North India, blending Hindu and Islamic influences.

Origin and Evolution of Kathak

• Initially, it began as an oral tradition, where Kathakars narrated stories based on epics, myths, and legends. 
  • Later, to enhance the storytelling, mime and gestures were added.
• The rise of the Vaishnavite cult and the Bhakti movement added a new range of lyrics and musical forms to it. 
• Raslila (combined elements of music, dance and narrative), primarily in the Braj region (Western UP), provides an extension of the basic mime and gestures of the Kathakars. 
• Mughal Influence:
  • Under the Mughals, it gradually shifted from the temple courtyard to the royal court (durbar).
  • It became highly stylised and was viewed as a form of entertainment. It acquired its present features and developed into a dance form with a distinctive style.
  • There was greater emphasis on nritya (expression) and bhava (mood), adding grace, expressiveness, and sensuality to the dance.
  • Persian costumes and styles of dancing also influenced it.
• The 19th century marked the golden age of Kathak under the patronage of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah (Lucknow Gharana).

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Performance Structure of Kathak

• The technique involves equal body weight distribution along the horizontal and vertical axis.
• The basic stance involves a straight posture with one hand held higher than the head and the other extended at shoulder level. There are no deflections or use of sharp bends or curves of the body. 
• It employs a sophisticated system of footwork, emphasising pure dance (nritta). 
  • Full-foot contact is of prime importance, where only the toe or the ball of the foot  are  used, their function is limited.
  • There are no deflections and no use of sharp bends or curves of the upper or lower part of the body.
• The performance commences with “Thaat,” introducing soft gliding movements of the neck, eyebrows, and wrists. 
• This is followed by a formal entry called “Amad” (entry) and “Salami” (salutation).
• To recite rhythmic syllables, the dancers pause before executing corresponding movements.
• Rhythmic Structure and Music
  • The nritta portion of Kathak is performed to the “nagma.” 
  • Jugalbandi is the competitive play between the dancer and the drummer (playing the pakhawaj).
• Mime Portions (Nritya or Abhinaya): These are short narrative pieces portraying episodes from Krishna’s life accompanied by Dhrupad music. Other numbers include thumri, bhajan, and Dadra, featuring poetic lines set to music and interpreted with gestures. 

Kathak’s Unique Identity

• It is the only classical dance form having links with Muslim culture and is deeply rooted in Hindustani or North Indian music.
• Kathak and Hindustani music have grown in parallel, mutually influencing each other.
• Famous Proponents of Kathak: Birju Maharaj, Lacchu Maharaj, Sitara Devi, Damayanti Joshi, etc.

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Conclusion

• Kathak, a symbol of Uttar Pradesh’s cultural heritage, reflects the synthesis of diverse cultural elements. Its dynamic expression and rhythmic intricacies continue to enchant audiences, preserving the rich tradition and legacy of North Indian classical dance.