About the Book
- The book thoroughly examines the influence of Bharat Muni's Natyashastra, an ancient treatize of dramatic arts, on present-day Kathak- It explores time and rhythm in Kathak in detail with examples- The author is a professional Kathak dancer and has been studying and performing Kathak for the past 46 years. She brings her experience about the practical aspects of Kathak in this book- The reader will be able to see how different aspects of Kathak are fused together to create a performanceKathak: The Dance of Storytellers explores the philosophical and practical aspects of Kathak dance - its origin, development, and techniques. Investigating this compelling dance style from cultural and historical perspectives, the book delves into the essential principles of Kathak, its schools and major artists, the format of Kathak performance, repertoire, Kathak music, predominant trends in training, and the system of practice through the lens of theory and application. A rare resource, the text is a comprehensive read for dancers, teachers, and Kathak lovers.Due to the increase of Kathak performances along with dance classes in the west, Kathak practitioners living outside India will immensely benefit from this book.
About the Author: Performer, choreographer, author, and educator Rachna Ramya has studied Kathak under Dr Maya Rao and the Jaipur style of Kathak under Pt Rajendra Gangani, both recipients of Sangeet Natak Akademi Award. She is also trained in choreography at the Natya Institute of Kathak and Choreography in New Delhi, India. Currently, she is teaching a course in dance at Trinity College in Hartford, Connecticut, USA. She is also the artistic director of Sumbhaav School of Kathak Dance.
