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