This intermediate-level Kathak course is crafted for students with a foundational knowledge of classical dance. It focuses on polishing footwork (tatkaar), mastering rhythm (taal and layakari), enhancing storytelling through expressive movements (abhinaya), and understanding the theory behind Kathak's rich heritage. Students will perform intricate compositions like todas, tukdas, tihais, and parans in various taals such as Teen Taal, Jhap Taal, and Ektaal, along with expressive pieces like Gat Nikas and Gat Bhaav.

The course also includes sessions on mudras, emotional expression through bhajans or thumris, and prepares students for performance with live or recorded music.

Key Benefits:

Master footwork and rhythm across different taals
Learn storytelling through movement and expressions
Refine technical skills with chakkars, tihais, and mudras
Understand Kathak theory, history, and terminology
Prepare for stage performances with confidence and grace

What You’ll Learn:

Tatkaar (Footwork)

Complex patterns in Teen Taal, Jhaptaal, Ektaal
Speed variations: Thaat, Dugun, Tigun, Chaugun
Advanced chakkars (spins) with balance and coordination

Taal & Layakari

Deep dive into rhythmic structure
Practical compositions in various taals
Tempo manipulation and tabla/lehra accompaniment

Toda, Tukda, Paran, Tihai

Clean execution and rhythmical clarity
Chakradhar Tihais and composition memorization
Understanding bols (syllables) in choreography

Gat Nikas & Bhaav

Expressive storytelling through dance (Radha-Krishna, peacock, etc.)
Dual character portrayal
Refinement of abhinaya techniques

Hastaks & Mudras

Controlled hand movements and storytelling gestures
Coordination of hand, eye, and feet movements

Abhinaya & Expression

Performing with bhava and rasa
Introduction to thumris or devotional bhajans
Emotive performance in slow tempo

Theory & Heritage

Origin and evolution of Kathak
Overview of Gharanas and Kathak terminology
Concepts from Natyashastra, Lasya, and Tandava

Performance & Stage Readiness

Preparing solo and group performances
Stage presence, costume etiquette, and musical support
Practice with live musicians or recorded tracks