Kathak

Kathak: 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.

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.