Lesson : 2 History of kathak ( part 1)

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We all experiences pleasure and satisfaction in rhythmical movement, since this excercises our body and at the same time reduces inner tensions.
      According to Indian ancient mythology, dance is believed to have been conceived by Lord Brahma. Brahma inspired the sage Bharata muni to write the Natyashastra, a treatise on performing arts. He used Pathya (words) from Rigveda, Abhinaya ( gestures) from the yajurveda, Geet ( music) from the Samaveda, and Rasa ( emotion) from the Atharva veda to form the Natyaveda ( body of knowledge about dance). The hindu deities - Shiva, Kali, & Krishna are typically represented in dancing.  Shiva's cosmic dance Tandava, kali's dance of Creation and Krishna's dance with the Gopikas- Raslila are Popular motifs in hindu mythology.

Female musicians in ancient India

In ancient India, dance firstly dedicated to worship and then it is considered to be as entertainment or leisure. Dancers usually performed in temples. Deities are invoked through the dance. Kathakars or professional story tellers recited the epics and mythological stories with an added element of Abhinaya ( acting). These story-tellers are referred as to Kathakas, Granthikas, Gathakas, & Pathakas. While reciting they sang, danced and acted.
            Lava and Kusha two sons of Rama, rendered Ramayana reciting, for this reason may be Kushilava has come to be associated with the dancers, actors.

A scene from traditional Raslila performed in
Brindavan by tje traditional Raslila party.


According to Mary snodgrass, the Kathak tradition of India is traceable to 400 BCE. The earliest text is the Bharata's Natyashastra and its first complete compilation is dated between 200 BCE & 200 CE.




Full forms: BCE- Before common era/ CE: common era








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UPCOMING:. Kathak revolution...Bhakti movement era.

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