Kathak means 'to tell a story'. This north Indian dance form is inextricably bound with classical Hindustani music, and the rythmic agility of the feet is accompanied by the table or pakhvaj. Traditionally the stories were of Radha and Krishna, in the Natwari style (as if was then called) but the Mughal invasion of North India had a serious impact on the dance.

Due to transfer of this dance to Muslim courts it became more entertaining and less religious in content.  More emphasis was laid on nritha, the pure dance aspect and less on Abhinaya ( expression and emotion)  

Instruments used : Pakhvaj, Tabla, Harmonium, Sarengi and Tablam. 

Famous Artists : Bharti Gupta, Birju Maharaj, Damayanti Joshi, Durga Das, Gopi Krishna, Shambhu Maharaj, Sitara Devi.

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