Kathak is one of the main genres of ancient Indian classical dance and is traditionally regarded to have originated from the travelling bards of North India referred as Kathakars or storytellers. These Kathakars wandered around and communicated legendary stories via music, dance and songs quite like the early Greek theatre. The genre developed during the Bhakti movement, the trend of theistic devotion which evolved in medieval Hinduism. The Kathakars communicate stories through rhythmic foot movements, hand gestures, facial expressions and eye work. This performing art that incorporates legends from ancient mythology and great Indian epics, especially from the life of Lord Krishna became quite popular in the courts of North Indian kingdoms. Three specific forms of this genre that is three gharanas (schools), which mostly differ in emphasis given to footwork versus acting, are more famous namely, the Jaipur gharana, the Benaras gharana and the Lucknow gharana.

**Kathak: A Classical Dance of North India**

Kathak is one of the eight classical dance forms of India. It originated in the northern regions of the Indian subcontinent, particularly in the states of Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan. The word "Kathak" is derived from the Sanskrit word "Katha," which means story. Kathak is known for its graceful movements, intricate footwork, and expressive storytelling.

**1. Kathak's Origins and History**
Kathak has its roots in the ancient Hindu temples, where it was initially performed as a form of storytelling. Over time, it evolved and incorporated elements from Persian and Mughal cultures, becoming a popular dance form in the Mughal courts. Kathak dancers were known as "Kathakars" or storytellers, as they would narrate mythological stories through their dance.

**2. Key Features of Kathak**
Kathak is characterized by its unique blend of rhythmic footwork (known as tatkar), intricate hand gestures (mudras), fast spins (chakkars), and expressive facial expressions. The dance form emphasizes both the technical aspects of footwork and the emotive aspects of storytelling. Kathak dancers often wear ankle bells (ghungroos) that produce rhythmic sounds as they dance.

**3. Gharanas (Schools) of Kathak**
Kathak has different regional variations, known as gharanas or schools, each with its distinct style and repertoire. The major gharanas of Kathak include:

a) Jaipur Gharana: Known for its emphasis on intricate footwork, this gharana focuses on precise movements and rhythmic patterns.

b) Lucknow Gharana: This gharana emphasizes graceful and expressive movements, with a particular focus on abhinaya (facial expressions).

c) Benaras Gharana: Known for its virtuosic footwork and complex rhythmic patterns, this gharana also incorporates elements of the tabla (Indian percussion instrument).

**4. Kathak Performances and Costumes**
Kathak performances typically include solo performances (solo nritta) as well as group performances (nritya). The dance is accompanied by live music, usually consisting of tabla, sarangi (stringed instrument), harmonium, and vocals.

Kathak costumes vary depending on the style and performance context. Female dancers usually wear a flowing lehenga (skirt), choli (blouse), and a dupatta (scarf). Male dancers often wear a kurta (tunic) or sherwani (long coat) with churidar (tight-fitting pants). Intricate jewelry and accessories like maang tikka (forehead ornament) and bangles are also worn.

**Conclusion**
In conclusion, Kathak is a classical dance form originating from North India, particularly Uttar Pradesh and Rajasthan. It is known for its graceful movements, intricate footwork, and expressive storytelling. Kathak has different gharanas, each with its unique style and repertoire. The dance form is characterized by its rhythmic footwork, hand gestures, spins, and facial expressions. Kathak performances are accompanied by live music, and the costumes vary depending on the style and performance context.

Kathak is one of the eight forms of Indian classical dances, originated from India. This dance form traces its origins to the nomadic bards of ancient northern India, known as Kathakars or storytellers. Its form today contains traces of temple and ritual dances, and the influence of the bhakti movement.