COURSES

Why Are Kathak Classes Important?

Kathak is one of the most enchanting classical dance forms among the eight recognized styles in India. The term “Kathak” is derived from the Sanskrit word “Katha,” meaning “story,” which reflects the narrative nature of this dance form. It serves as a beautiful medium for storytelling, conveying various themes, emotions, and historical tales through intricate movements and expressions.

Kathak is characterized by its unique combination of three fundamental arts: music, dance, and drama. This blend allows the dancer to express emotions and tell stories in an engaging manner. The dance is known for its intricate footwork, which showcases the dancer’s skill and precision, as well as graceful movements that enhance the expressive quality of the performance. Elegant spins, often referred to as ‘chakkars,’ add a mesmerizing visual element, while the dancer’s facial expressions play a crucial role in conveying the story and emotions behind the performance.

The rhythm, known as ‘Taal,’ is a vital part of Kathak, involving complex rhythmic patterns that the dancer must master. These elements make Kathak not just a form of physical activity, but also a means of instilling discipline and focus. It requires years of practice to perfect the techniques and to embody the artistic nuances of this dance style.

To cater to the diverse interests and skill levels of learners, Kathak dance courses are structured to accommodate everyone, from absolute beginners to advanced practitioners. These courses typically offer a comprehensive blend of practical experience and theoretical knowledge, ensuring that students not only learn the techniques and choreography but also gain a deeper understanding of the cultural and historical context of Kathak. The journey of learning Kathak is not just about mastering a dance form; it is an exploration of art, storytelling, and personal expression.

ARAMBHIK ( PRELIMINARY COURSE):

In Kathak,  Parambhik refers to the basic foundational stage where students learn

  • Tatkar (Footwork),
  • Hastas (Hand Gestures),
  • Chhakar (Spins),
  • Posture,
  • Tekas,
  • Taal (Rhythmic Cycles),
  • Expression,
  • Kavitt,
  • Basic Tukras,
  • Basic Tihais,

 

2. JUNIOR DIPLOMA (2-3  YEARS):

A Junior Diploma in Kathak is a foundational certification course designed for those students who have completed the basic level of Kathak Training. In this course mainly focus on areas

  • Advance Footwork (Tatkar),
  • Chakkars (Spins),
  • Complex Taals like Jhanptaal, Kaharwa Taal,
  • Introduction to difficult Tukras, Chakradhar Tukras,
  • Parhant (Recitation of bols),
  • Small compositions,
  • Theoretical knowledge.       

 

3. SENIOR DIPLOMA   ( 2-3 YEARS):

A Senior Diploma in Kathak is an advanced level certification course for those students who have completed Junior Diploma training. In this course mainnly focus on areas

  • Mastery of Footwork (Tatkar)
  • Advanced Chakkars ( Spins)
  • Complex Taals like Ektaal, Chautaal, Dhamar
  • Compositions like Tukras, Chakradhar Tukras, Paran, Chakradhar Paran, Tihais, Gat Bhava, Gat Nikas
  • Enhanced Abhinaya (Facial Expression)
  • Theoretical Knowledge like In-depth study of the History of Dance, Kathak Gharanas, Knowledge of Rhythmic Cycles and their structure, about famous Kathak Dancers etc.
  • Performance Skills like focus on stage performance , Coordination with Musicians etc.                                                                                                            

4.  SANGIT PRABHAKAR (2-3 YEARS):

A Sangit Prabhakar in Kathak is a prestigious advanced level certification course for those students who have completed Senior Diploma training. It is equivalent to a postgraduate diploma and signifies mastery in both the practical and theoretical aspects of Kathak.Focus on areas

  • Highly intricate Tatkars (Footwork), Chakkars (Spins), advanced compositions Farmaishi, Parmelu…
  • Detailed work on Gat Bhava, Gat Nikas, and Abhinaya
  • Advanced Taals such as Dhamar with layakai, Pancham Swari, Roopak etc..
  • Theoretical Knowledge like deep understanding of Kathak History, evolution, Gharanas, about Mudras etc..
  • Performance solo on stage with improvisation                                                                      

 

 5. PRAVEEN SANGEETACHARYA :

The Praveen Sangeetacharya is an advanced diploma in Kathak dance offered by institutions such as Prayag Sangeet Samiti.

  1. Junior Diploma (Prarambhik): First and Second Year
  2. Senior Diploma (Bhushan): Third and Fourth Year
  3. Sangeet Prabhakar: Fifth and Sixth Year
  4. Praveen Sangeetacharya: Seventh and Eighth Year

Each stage is designed to progressively develop a student’s proficiency in Kathak. The Praveen Sangeetacharya focusing on

  • Advanced techniques,
  • Intricate footwork,
  • Expressive gestures, 
  • Deep theoretical knowledge.