Question

Which of the following statements about Kathak is correct?

• A. Kathak has no association with Islamic culture or royal patronage.
• B. Kathak is a South Indian classical dance form known for sharp body bends and association with Carnatic music.
• C. Kathak is the only Indian classical dance form historically connected to Islamic culture and aligned with North Indian music, with major gharanas such as Lucknow, Jaipur, and Banaras.
• D. Kathak was primarily developed during the Vedic period and remains untouched by regional influences.

Answer 1

Answer:

C. Kathak is the only Indian classical dance form historically connected to Islamic culture and aligned with North Indian music, with major gharanas such as Lucknow, Jaipur, and Banaras.

Kathak The emergence of Raslila in the Braj region, centered around the Radha-Krishna theme, significantly influenced the development of Kathak. It is the only classical dance form with historical connections to Islamic culture. During the Mughal era, Kathak transitioned from being performed in temple courtyards to the royal courts, altering its presentation. This shift placed greater emphasis on nritya (pure dance) and bhava (expression). The golden age of Kathak began under the patronage of Wajid Ali Shah, the last Nawab of Oudh, who established the Lucknow Gharana. Other prominent Kathak schools include the Jaipur Gharana and Banaras Gharana. Kathak movements are characterized by an intricate system of footwork, graceful torso movements, and an absence of sharp bends or curves in the upper and lower body. It is also the only classical dance form aligned with North Indian music. The accompanying musical instruments typically include the Pakhawaj (a type of Mridangam) or a pair of Tabla.