What type of dress is worn while we dance Kathak?
The Hindu Kathak dancer wears either a sari or a long full skirt that reaches the ankles. The sari is wrapped around the waist and its end hangs down from the left side. A blouse covers the upper body and a tika usually adores the forehead along with the customary jewelry in the ears, nose and neck.
How many Todas are there in Kathak?
Kathak is an art form that is not limited to any age barrier. Generally, students can start learning at the age of 7 but one can learn it anytime starting from zero. The 7 Kathak Levels are discussed in great length below. So, dive into this glorious knowledge of Kathak.
What are the different styles of Kathak called?
Kathak has over time evolved into three styles namely Classical, Contemporary and Sufi. It charms and captivates people with its swift pirouettes, unique rhythmic virtuosity and lyrical exploration of romantic as well as devotional poetry.
Which gharana is best in Kathak?
1. Lucknow Kathak Gharana. The Lucknow Gharana was carved and developed in the courts of the Nawab of Oudh in Lucknow, Uttar Pradesh. It especially underscores beauty, grace, style, elegance and naturalness showing the great feminine styles in the dance.
What is the Speciality of Kathak?
Kathak is characterized by intricate footwork and precise rhythmic patterns that the dancer articulates by controlling about 100 ankle bells. It takes its movements from life, stylizes them, and adds the complex rhythmic patterns. Kathak is danced by both males and females; many of the dances convey moods of love.
What is the traditional dress of Kathak dance?
Kathak Costume for the Female Dancer. Kathak costume for the female dancer comprises of a long pleated ‘Kurta’ (Shirt) worn over Pyjama, a brocaded cap and a ‘Dupatta’. Traditional Hindu costume sometimes consists of a Sari, to allow greater freedom of movement during dance.
Who is the most famous kathak dancer?
Sitara Devi was another star of this dance form described as Nritya Samragini that is the empress of dance by Rabindranath Tagore and she continues to retain her Kathak Queen title even after death. Other eminent Kathak artists include Roshan Kumari, Shovana Narayan, Maya Rao and Kumudini Lakhia to name a few.
How is the mixture of culture reflected in the costumes of Kathak?
This mixture of culture is reflected in its costumes. Costumes in Kathak are often similar to that shown in the Mughal Miniature Paintings. However, over the years, the dance has undergone some changes and its reflection can be seen in the costume as well.
What are the different forms of Kathak?
There are several forms that fall under Kathak, a short dance composition is known as ‘Tukra’ while a longer one is known as ‘Atoda’. There are also compositions that only consists of foot movements. It was being said that wandering Kathakars communicated stories of ancient mythologies and epics through dance.