Unlock Your Inner Magic with Kathak 

Kathak: A Journey Through Rhythm and Story

Welcome to the mesmerizing world of Kathak, one of the eight principal forms of Indian classical dance. Originating from North India, Kathak is a dance form that transcends mere movement; it's a vibrant tapestry woven with intricate footwork, graceful pirouettes, expressive gestures, and evocative storytelling.

The word "Kathak" is derived from the Sanskrit word "Katha," meaning "story," and "Kathakar," meaning "storyteller." This ancient art form was traditionally performed by Kathakars, who used dance, music, and song to narrate tales from Hindu mythology, epic poems, and folklore. Over centuries, Kathak evolved from its temple origins to the courts of Mughal emperors and Rajput kings, absorbing influences and developing its unique blend of Hindu and Persian artistic elements.

What Makes Kathak Unique?

Kathak is characterized by several distinctive features:

• Tatkar (Footwork): This is the heart of Kathak. Dancers produce a complex array of rhythmic sounds using their bare feet and the ghungroos (ankle bells) tied around their ankles. The precision and speed of tatkar are breathtaking, creating a dialogue between the dancer and the percussion instruments.

• Chakkar (Pirouettes): Kathak dancers are renowned for their spectacular spins, often executed with incredible speed and control, creating a captivating visual effect.

• Bhava (Expression): Storytelling is integral to Kathak. Dancers use abhinaya (facial expressions and hand gestures) to convey emotions, depict characters, and narrate stories, drawing the audience into the narrative.

• Laya (Tempo) and Taal (Rhythmic Cycles): Kathak thrives on its sophisticated rhythmic structures. Dancers showcase their mastery by performing within complex taals (rhythmic cycles) and effortlessly transitioning between various layas (tempos), from slow and contemplative to fast and exhilarating.

• Costumes and Music: Traditionally, Kathak costumes are rich and elegant, often featuring flowing anarkali suits or lehengas for women and kurtas for men. The accompanying music typically includes Hindustani classical instruments like the tabla, harmonium, sarangi, and sitar, creating a soulful and dynamic soundscape.

The Gharanas of Kathak:

Over time, distinct schools or gharanas of Kathak emerged, each with its own emphasis and stylistic nuances:

• Jaipur Gharana: Known for its emphasis on intricate and forceful footwork, complex rhythmic patterns, and dynamic movements.

• Lucknow Gharana: Characterized by its graceful movements, subtle expressions, and emphasis on bhava (emotional storytelling).

• Banaras Gharana: A unique blend that combines elements of both Jaipur and Lucknow, with a focus on a strong stage presence and a slightly more restrained approach to footwork.

Experience the Magic of Kathak:

Whether you are a seasoned connoisseur of Indian classical arts or new to its wonders, Kathak offers an enriching and exhilarating experience. It's a dance form that celebrates rhythm, expression, and the timeless art of storytelling, inviting you to witness a captivating dialogue between tradition and innovation.

Join us as we explore the beauty, grace, and profound artistry of Kathak!

Nisha Dance Classes isn't affiliated with any dance institute offering diploma courses. However, we do help our students register and prepare for courses at such institutes. Currently, many of our Kathak dance students are pursuing their diplomas through Prayag Sangeet Samiti, and some also enroll with Bhatkhande Vidyapeeth.

Dance Diplomas Awarded by Prayag Samiti

• Junior Diploma: First Year – Second Year

• Senior Diploma: Third Year – Fourth Year

• Sangit Prabhakar: Fifth Year – Sixth Year

• Praveen Sangeetacharya: Seventh Year – Eighth Year

Dance Diplomas Awarded by Bhatkhande Vidyapeeth

• RATHAMA : 2-Year Program(There shall be no Theory paper in Prathma (First Year) Kathak Dance.)

• MADHYAMA  2-Year Program

• VISHARAD: 2-Year Program

• NIPUN :3-Year Program

About Instructor:

Nisha Kashyap, owner and founder of Nisha Dance Classes, is a choreographer and instructor whose aim is to develop dancers and cultivate a love for dance. Academically accomplished, she holds a B.Com, M.Com, and an M.A. in Economics, complemented by diplomas in Office Management from ONGC Polytechnic and Business Management from IGNOU. Her true passion lies in classical dance, reflected in her accomplishment of Visharad and Nipun-I in Kathak — the esteemed diploma and postgraduate diploma from Bhatkhande Sangeet Mahavidyalaya. Nisha Dance Classes encourages students to work collaboratively, building their confidence to shine individually and as part of a group.