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SCHOOL OF FINE ARTS
Kathak Kādambinī
Syllabus & Curriculum
Kathak is one of the eight classical dance forms of India, with origins in the storytelling traditions of North India. Its name comes from katha, meaning “story,” and kathakar, meaning “storyteller.”
Evolving from temple performances that narrated tales from the epics, Kathak later flourished in royal courts, blending devotional themes with intricate footwork, swift spins, and graceful gestures. Today, Kathak retains its narrative essence while embracing both traditional and contemporary presentations.
Basics & Advanced Certified Kathak Courses
Basics Batch 1
Friday: 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Saturday: 5:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Basics Batch 2
Saturday: 6:00 PM to 7:00 PM
Sunday: 11:00 AM to 12:00 PM
New batches start in Sep & Oct 2025
Kathak – Curriculum
A balanced blend of tradition, theory, and engaging performances to keep learning joyful while building strong foundations.
Quarter 1 – Foundations of Kathak
Theory:
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Origin & history of Kathak
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Overview of Indian classical dance forms
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Introduction to the 3 Gharanas & their characteristics
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Basic concepts: Taal, Laya, Ekgun, Dugun
Practical:
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Pranam & Guru Vandana
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Basic hand movements (Hastas)
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Footwork drills (Tatkar) – Ekgun, Dugun
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Basic Chakras (5-foot, 3-foot, 1-foot spins)
By End of Year – Student Outcomes
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Strong grasp of Kathak basics and Teental compositions.
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Understanding of Kathak history, gharanas, and key theoretical concepts.
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Ability to perform Vandanas, Thumris, Tarana, and light Bollywood choreographies.
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Introduction to Jhaptaal, preparing them for Year 2/Diploma-level learning.
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Confidence in both solo and group performances.
Quarter 2 – Teental Basics & Expressive Elements
Theory:
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Understanding Teental structure (16 beats)
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Rasa (emotions) in Kathak
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Basic Hasta Mudras and their meanings
Practical:
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Padhant of Teental (Ekgun, Dugun, Chaugun)
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Tatkar variations
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Thaat, Aamad, Salaami (Namaskar)
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Introduction to Tihai
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Storytelling through simple Kavittas
Quarter 3 – Expanding Technique & Repertoire
Theory:
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Understanding Tukdas, Todes, and Parans
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Introduction to Chakradhar Tukdas
Practical:
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Advanced Tatkar patterns
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Paran Aamad, Paran
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Tukde & Saade Tukde practice
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Choreography on Vandanas, Thumris, and light Bollywood numbers
Quarter 4 – Introduction to Jhaptaal & Performance Skills
Theory:
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Basics of Jhaptaal (10 beats) – structure & patterns
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Linking theory to performance: stage presence, costume, and rhythm awareness
Practical:
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Jhaptaal Padhant & basic Tatkar
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Short Jhaptaal compositions
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Performance preparation – combining technical elements with expression
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Group choreography & final showcase