Kathak

Origin / tradition

The form

Kathak finds its roots in the times of Lord Rama and is one of the most popular classical dances performed in India. Storytellers, or kathaks, used this style to narrate the stories of Gods and Goddesses in temples. Later the form also became entertainment for a wider public. A Kathak performance is divided into nrit, the dance aspect, and the emoting aspect. Houses or gharanas include Jaipur, Banaras, and Lucknow.

At Guiding Star Productions, Kathak is taught through the traditions of both the Jaipur and Banaras gharanas, allowing students to experience the distinctive qualities of these two celebrated schools of Kathak. The Jaipur gharana is renowned for its powerful and intricate footwork, rhythmic complexity, energetic movements, dynamic chakkars, and strong command of taal and layakari. The Banaras gharana, rooted in Varanasi and closely associated with the Janaki Prasad tradition, is distinguished by its graceful movements, precise tatkar, Natwari bols, expressive storytelling, and devotional character. Together, these traditions provide our students with a rich and well-rounded foundation in the technique, rhythm, expression, and spiritual heritage of Kathak.