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KATHAK DANCE
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KATHAK” is a classical dance, and derives from the word ‘Katha’ or story-telling. Kathak as a dance form is the essence of the eternal story of life. Originating in the unending green of the Indo-Gangetic plain of India, Kathak found its way from the divine arches and courtyards of temples to the gorgeous courtrooms of Kings and Royal Nobles.
Over the years, Kathak has imbibed the serenity as well as the opulent grandeur of Indian civilization. It is the most popular, open-ended Indian classical dance style with considerable scope for improvisation.
It was under the tutelage of the last Nawab or ruler of Oudh, Nawab Wajid Ali Shah, a well-known lover of art and culture, that Kathak of Lucknow “Gharana” or style witnessed its most creative development. This also imparted a unique character to Kathak, making it the only classical style which has been influenced both by Hindu and Islamic traditions. Its themes are both devotional as well as secular.
The rich and varied traditions of this dance have been further enriched in recent times by a succession of eminent “gurus” and artistes who have left their stamp on the dance form recital comprises of nritt (pure dance or technicalities).
A typical Kathak recital comprisesof nritt (pure dance ortechnicalities), nritya (representational items) and natya(drama).
" Kathak is not just dance is a path to self discovery and a way of life "
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