KATHAK
Kathak is one of the eight major forms of Indian classical dance. Its origin is attributed to the travelling bards in ancient northern India known as ‘Kathakar’ (storyteller). Kathakars communicated stories from the Hindu epics and mythology through dance, songs and music. ‘Kathak’ is derived from the Sanskrit word ‘Katha’ which means “the one who tells stories” or “to do with stories”. Kathak performers exhibit stories through graceful hand movements, extensive footwork, flexible body movements, and most importantly intense facial expressions capable of evoking a range of emotions. Kathak evolved during the Bhakti movement and incorporated stories revolving around the Hindu deity Krishna and his childhood.
Kathak dance has a traditional and cultural heritage that gives it the status of the Indian classical dance form. The technical and aesthetic aspects associated with Kathak have been passed onto generations verbally as an oral tradition. Like the majority of the art forms of India, Kathak thrives on the Guru-Shishya Parampara or the teacher-disciple tradition. Kathak evolved as an expression of devotion towards Lord Krishna. Studies suggest that Kathak originated in Varanasi and this dance form travelled through Lucknow, Jaipur, and other parts of North and North West India.
BHARATNATYAM
Bharatnatyam is a Indian classical dance form that originated in Tamil Nadu, India. It is a classical dance form recognized by the Sangeet Natak Akademi. Bharatanatyam dance is a tradition steeped in Indian history and culture. Bharatanatyam word was derived by joining two Sanskrit words: ’Natyam’ meaning dance and ’Bharata’ which is a mnemonic containing ‘Bha’ (bhava/emotions), ‘Ra’ (raga/melody), and ‘Ta’(tala/rhythm). Thus the term Bharatanatyam means a dance that expresses Bhava, Raga, and Tala.
From its sacred origins in temple rituals to its resurgence as a revered classical dance, Bharatanatyam continues to enchant audiences with its beauty, grace, and profound storytelling. It remains an integral part of India's cultural heritage, embodying the rich traditions and artistic expressions of the land.
Today, Bharatanatyam is a dance style that encompasses religious and non-religious themes, as well as fusion styles. Characterized by precise movements, sharp edges, and expressive body language, this tradition has delighted audiences for generations. Like many other aspects of Indian tradition, this art form has struggled through times of oppression. However, with the efforts of teachers and students all over the world, Bharatanatyam has been revived to continue to serve the people who find joy in the formal and intuitive expressions embodied in the structure of the dance.
STORY-TELLING THROUGH DANCE
Every dance is more than a collection of moves with complicated titles. It's just a little portion of a larger story, one portrayed through a combination of dance and music or, on occasion, just with the dance steps alone. We must realise that the essence of dance is to tell a narrative, and we must share this with our students.
In dance, storytelling entails a dancer's exploration of how our bodies may transmit meaning, intent, and interpretation in order to execute a tale or a journey. For the audience, it's about delving deeper into the body in order to examine a tale through visual methods, relying on our own perceptions as watchers. Many claim that all dances tell a story, and that there are limitless types if all dance forms are included. There are, however, several techniques that make storytelling more apparent in specific genres of dance.
Many forms of traditional Indian folk dancing have their origins in storytelling, particularly religious stories, which were once solely performed in temples. The Kathak style started with real storytellers who liked to combine song and drama with their dance, which was characterised by rapid footwork and ankle bells.
Rooted in tradition and spirituality, Bharatanatyam is not just a dance but a deep story-telling art. The concepts of rasa and abhinaya are at the heart of his narrative power, interweaving seamlessly to convey emotions and stories. Rasa, a Sanskrit word that translates to "essence" or "taste", is at the heart of Bharatnatyam's emotional power. Abhinaya, the art of expression in Bharatanatyam, complements Rasa by embodying the emotions and stories in the dancer.
Facial expressions play an important role in acting, enabling the dancer to transcend the verbal and communicate the emotional depth of the story. The delicate movement of the eyes, the arching of the eyebrows and the play of facial emotions together breathe life into the narrative. Through acting, Bharatanatyam becomes a visual poetry, connecting the performer and the audience in a shared emotional journey.
KATHAK AND BHARATNATYAM AT BTA
BTA offers awesome Kathak and Bharatnatyam classes. We have experienced trainers who teach both dance forms with passion and expertise, the classes focus on technique, expressions, and storytelling through dance. BTA provides a supportive and encouraging environment for students to learn and grow. Whether you’re a beginner or have some experience, BTA has classes for all levels. They also organize regular performances to showcase the student’s progress. It’s a fantastic opportunity to immerse yourself in the beauty and grace of these classical Indian dance forms. Highly recommend checking them out!
Written by
Grace Gethsiba
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