The Art of Storytelling Through Indian Dance

Kathak is an Indian classical dance form, which is derived from the Sanskrit word Kathaka, meaning story. Dancers who perform this art are known as Kathakaars, or storytellers. The stories told using this dance form are based on ancient tales from India. It incorporates hand gestures and body movements to narrate tales with facial expressions that portray feelings. As dancers move through rhythmic patterns with the bells worn at their ankles, they communicate with the spectators. This performing art has been taught, practiced, and performed for countless centuries. Over time, it has grown to encompass a multitude of cultures and dance forms, such as confluences in flamenco and contemporary dance.

A major aspect of Kathak has been the ability to express emotions through facial expressions. This was, and continues to be, the hardest aspect of Kathak for me to learn. Exhibiting emotions this transparently was very new to me, but with practice, I have learned to relax and let my feelings show when I dance. I never felt comfortable performing in front of others because I always worried about messing up. But after performing multiple times, I have learned to accept my mistakes and continue dancing. Multiple weekly practices stretching 1-2 hours have taught my mind to maintain this focus while dancing. The confidence and focus that Kathak has given me allows me to make presentations or speeches with more comfort and ease.

The study of Kathak has been a way to connect with my mother’s Indian roots as I come to understand the history and significance behind the movements and how they relate to my culture. Now, I consider Kathak not only my mother’s, but also my own. It has given me confidence, focus, and gives me the opportunities to hone my sense of rhythm. Kathak continues to enrich my life by allowing me to connect with the rest of the community through dance.