Kathak Dancing

Ritika Chandola | Kathak Dancer | Ritiyangan Institite of Performing Arts

What is Kathak Dancing?

A Career in Kathak Dancing is very interesting. One should first understand What a Career in Kathak Dancing entails before investing time and effort to figure out How to start a Career in Kathak Dancing. The internet is a great source of information on Kathak Dancing, but it is second best to learning about the same from a real professional.

Kathak Dancer Ritika Chandola is an experienced professional with 10 years in Kathak Dancing. Here is how Kathak Dancer Ritika Chandola detailed Kathak Dancing:

Kathak is the Hindustani name for one of the eight major forms of Indian classical dance. The origin of Kathak is traditionally attributed to the traveling bards of ancient northern India known as Kathakars or storytellers. The term Kathak is derived from the Vedic Sanskrit word Katha which means "story", and Kathakar which means "the one who tells a story", or "to do with stories

How Kathak Dancer Ritika Chandola got into Kathak Dancing?

I am Kathak Graduate and doing classical dance since 2006. I also teach Kathak in my own Dance Academy in Dehradun.

Kathak Dancer Ritika Chandola's Talk on Kathak Dancing

The Art of Kathak Dance: A Journey Through Tradition and Modernity Kathak dance, a traditional art form from North India, is not merely a dance; it's a vibrant expression of culture and storytelling. Renowned artist Ritika Chandola, with over thirteen years of experience in this captivating domain, elucidates the depths and nuances of this classical dance. Through her insights, we explore the educational pathways, skills, and the eclectic journey of a Kathak dancer navigating the challenges and rewards of this beautiful craft. What Is Kathak Dancing Kathak dancing is a classical performance form that originates from North India, steeped in rich heritage and emotive storytelling. It combines intricate footwork, sophisticated gestures, and expressive facial expressions to narrate tales from Indian mythology and folklore. According to Ritika, “Kathak embodies the essence of divine play between Lord Krishna and Radha,” signifying its roots in spiritual expression. This dance form not only serves as a medium of art but also preserves and promotes cultural narratives, which are relevant to both traditional and contemporary audiences. Education Nrityashaili Krishna's dance, known as Nrityashaili, involves a beautiful amalgamation of rhythm and movement inherent in Kathak. It emphasizes both the aesthetic display of bodily movements and the technical precision of footwork. Ritika's training at the Natya Institute exemplifies the dedication to mastering this intricate dance style. The core of Nrityashaili lies in its ability to translate emotions into movement, creating a visual and auditory experience that resonates with audiences across generations. Natyashastra The Natyashastra, an ancient treatise on performing arts by Bharata Muni, serves as the foundational text for Kathak. It details various aspects of dance, including rhythm, expression, and stage presence, making it a critical study for aspiring dancers. Ritika notes, "Understanding Natyashastra enhances our performance, allowing us to convey deeper meanings through our expressions.” By grounding themselves in these classical teachings, dancers can enrich their performances and connect more profoundly with their audiences. History of Kathak Ritika emphasizes the historical significance of Kathak, tracing its lineage back to the era of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah. The dance has evolved through various epochs, absorbing influences from both the Mughal courts and regional folk traditions. This blend of history and cultural evolution gives Kathak a unique identity that resonates with audiences today. It acts as a living archive of societal values and artistic expression, reminding us of the dance's ability to adapt while maintaining its essence. Kathak Gharanas Kathak is classified into three main gharanas: Banaras, Jaipur, and Lucknow, each with its unique style and aesthetic. Ritika, who trains in the Lucknow gharana, describes it as vibrant and expressive, often incorporating intricate footwork along with the use of various musical instruments such as the tabla and harmonium. Learning from these distinct gharanas allows dancers like Ritika to develop a versatile style while honoring the traditions of their lineage. Dance Forms Within Kathak, various dance forms express different narratives and themes, such as pure dance (Tatkar) and expressive dance (Abhinaya). Ritika underlines the importance of knowing these forms to become a well-rounded dancer. “Each form conveys specific emotions and stories; understanding them makes a performance compelling,” she states. This diversity enriches the experience of both the dancers and their audiences, promoting a deeper appreciation for the art form. Music Instruments Music is an integral part of Kathak, with instruments like the tabla, harmonium, and violin playing crucial roles in performances. Ritika mentions how the synchronization of music with dance enhances the overall impact of a performance. “Without a solid understanding of rhythm and music, our footwork might falter, leaving our storytelling incomplete,” she explains. This interplay between music and dance is essential for creating a captivating spectacle. Skills Footwork The precision of footwork, or Tatkar, is a hallmark of Kathak and one of the first skills dancers master. Ritika highlights that “it’s not just about quick steps; it's about rhythm and expression.” Mastery of footwork allows performers to connect deeply with the musical accompaniment, making it vital for a successful performance. Remarkably, the ability to blend footwork with the musical beat can captivate an audience, creating an unforgettable experience. Mudras & Expression In Kathak, mudras (hand gestures) and facial expressions are crucial for conveying emotions and narratives. Ritika reflects on their significance, stating, “Every movement has a meaning; without proper expression, the dance loses its narrative essence.” This skill allows dancers to engage the audience emotionally and communicate stories without uttering a single word, showcasing the depth of Kathak as a performing art. Patience Patience is a necessary attribute in mastering Kathak, as it requires years of practice and dedication. Ritika emphasizes, “Without patience, one cannot appreciate the gradual growth and learning in dance.” This quality not only helps dancers hone their craft but also cultivates resilience and discipline, essential traits for any artist navigating the challenges of their career. Listening Skills Listening skills are fundamental to Kathak, where understanding rhythm and musical cues is crucial. Ritika notes, “You must be attuned to the music to stay in sync with other performers and instruments.” This attentiveness fosters collaborative energy during performances, making it crucial for soloists and group dancers alike. Coordination Coordination between movement and music is indispensable in Kathak. Ritika describes how “the rhythm must flow through your entire body for effective expression,” illustrating the seamless blend of artistry and technical skill required. This coordination not only enhances performance but also contributes to the overall theatrical experience for the audience. Positives Stress Buster Ritika describes dancing as a therapeutic outlet, stating, “If I'm feeling low or stressed, dancing lifts my spirits.” The meditative quality of Kathak allows artists to express themselves and connect with their emotions, making it a beneficial activity for mental health. This therapeutic aspect attracts many to dance, turning it into a powerful stress reliever. Flexible to Other Dance Forms Another significant advantage of Kathak is its adaptability. Ritika shares, “Once you grasp the fundamentals of Kathak, transitioning into other dance forms, such as contemporary dance, becomes seamless.” This flexibility encourages creativity and opens doors to further exploration within the realm of dance, allowing dancers to innovate while respecting traditional roots. Exposure Training in Kathak grants performers exposure to various cultural settings and opportunities, as many dance events and competitions foster a sense of community. Ritika affirms that “traveling for performances broadens your horizons and enriches your experiences.” Engaging with diverse audiences helps dancers grow personally and professionally, fortifying their passion for the art. Social Impact Ritika emphasizes Kathak’s role in cultural preservation and social awareness. She states, “Every performance has the potential to convey messages and inspire change.” By engaging audiences with compelling narratives, Kathak can foster discussions about cultural values and societal issues, illustrating the dance's enduring relevance. Challenges Westernization One of the foremost challenges faced by traditional dancers like Ritika is the rising trend of westernization in dance forms. “Many young audiences gravitate towards contemporary styles, making it difficult to retain interest in classical dance,” she explains. This shift poses a challenge for practitioners, as they strive to keep the heritage alive while captivating modern audiences. Audience Attention Securing audience attention is another obstacle, as people often seek entertainment in more flamboyant styles. Ritika admits, “Keeping audiences engaged with Kathak requires creativity and innovation in performances.” The pressure to modernize while preserving tradition can create a fine balance that artists must navigate carefully. Lack of Recognition Ritika also highlights the struggle for recognition that artists face in smaller regions like Uttarakhand. “There’s a significant gap in appreciation for classical arts,” she asserts. Without wider recognition, artists may struggle to secure opportunities to showcase their talents, highlighting the need for increased support and appreciation for traditional forms of expression. A Day Of Kathak Dancing Ritika's day revolves around a balance of education, practice, and performance. She typically starts her mornings with academic studies and dedicates her afternoons to Kathak practice and teaching. “After my studies, it’s all about immersing myself in dance, where I feel most alive,” she reveals. This harmonious routine of blending education with her passion is crucial to her development as both a dancer and a future journalist. Through this structured yet fulfilling day, Ritika exemplifies how dedication to her craft can coexist with broader aspirations. As we reflect on the journey of Kathak and those who dedicate themselves to preserving its beauty, it becomes evident that this art form is not just a dance but a language of culture and emotion. For artists like Ritika, it’s a lifelong passion, a therapy, and an expression that bridges past and present. The resilience of Kathak in adapting to modern times while maintaining its essence ensures that this vibrant tradition will continue to inspire future generations.

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Links for this Talk

Kathak Dancer Ritika Chandola's LifePage:

[LifePage]
https://www.lifepage.in/page/ritikachandola

LifePage Career Talk on Kathak Dancing

[Career]
https://www.lifepage.in/careers/kathak-dancing-2

[Full Talk]
https://lifepage.app.link/20190820-0001

[Trailer]
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BgLiefRQm_o

(Kathak Dancing, Ritika Chandola, Ritiyangan Institite of Performing Arts, Dancing, Classical Dance, Indian Classical Dance.)

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