The Eras of Kathak- Part 1- Mandir Kaal

Traceable to 400 BC, Kathak originally means ‘one who tells stories’. It started in temples where artists would tell stories like the Ramayana through various movements and expressions. Thus, this era of Kathak is called ‘Mandir Kaal’ which translates to ‘Temple Period’.   Most classical dances started this way including Bharatnatyam, Odissi and Kuchipudi. Artists would often travel from place to place, and at this point in time Kathak was not nearly as grand as it is today. The fast chakkars and rhythmic tapping that we now associate with Kathak were much less common. Rather, the form was much more emotive and expressive. We still see remnants of this period in Vandanas (pieces done to honour Hindu gods) and pieces such as ‘Baasuri ki Gat’, a piece which aims to mimic the playfulness of Lord Krishna. The fact that Kathak still remains an important part of Indian culture is proof of its grace, beauty and power.