Imagine the rhythmic clang of ankle bells, the vibrant swirl of silk, and the expressive eyes weaving stories of gods, kings, and emotions. India’s classical dance forms are not just performances; they are living expressions of culture, history, and spirituality. Among the most celebrated are Bharatanatyam and Kathak—two styles that have evolved over centuries while preserving their distinct identities.
If you’ve ever wondered what sets Bharatanatyam apart from Kathak, you’re in the right place. This guide will take you through the key differences between these mesmerizing dance forms, helping you appreciate their uniqueness and depth.
1. Origins and Regional Influence
Bharatanatyam traces its origins to the temples of South India, particularly in Tamil Nadu. It was once performed by Devadasis—women devoted to temple worship—who used dance as a form of devotion to deities. The ancient text Natya Shastra describes this art as Dasiattam before it evolved into Bharatanatyam. This dance form is deeply rooted in spiritual expression, with every movement symbolizing aspects of divinity.
Kathak, on the other hand, has its roots in North India, where it began as a form of storytelling by the Kathakars—wandering minstrels who narrated mythological tales through dance, music, and expression. Over time, Kathak found patronage in the royal courts of Rajasthan, Uttar Pradesh, and Madhya Pradesh, leading to its evolution into a more refined and structured art form. Unlike Bharatanatyam, which remained a temple dance, Kathak absorbed Persian and Mughal influences, becoming a blend of Hindu and Islamic artistic traditions.
2. Costumes: A Reflection of Tradition and Style
The attire worn by Bharatanatyam dancers reflects the grandeur of South Indian tradition. Women wear vibrant silk sarees draped in a unique style that allows for fluid yet structured movements. The costume is often adorned with traditional gold jewellery, including a headpiece (nethi chutti), earrings, necklaces, bangles, and waist belts. The makeup, particularly the bold eye design, enhances the dancer’s expressions.
Kathak costumes, however, are designed for elegance and movement. Dancers wear lehengas or anarkali suits with intricate embroidery, giving them a regal appearance. The fluidity of the fabric allows for graceful twirls, a hallmark of Kathak. Unlike Bharatanatyam, where the costume emphasizes posture, Kathak costumes are designed to highlight the dancer’s rapid footwork and spins.
3. Music and Rhythmic Accompaniment
Bharatanatyam follows the Carnatic music tradition of South India. Instruments such as the mridangam (percussion), veena (string instrument), and flute provide the melodic and rhythmic backdrop. The music is structured with specific ragas (melodies) and talas (rhythmic cycles) that dictate the dancer’s movements.
Kathak is performed to Hindustani classical music, which is the predominant musical style of North India. The use of instruments like the tabla (percussion), sitar (string instrument), and harmonium creates a dynamic musical atmosphere. The beats (bols) of the tabla play a crucial role in guiding the dancer’s intricate footwork.
4. Footwork: Precision vs. Speed
One of the most striking differences between Bharatanatyam and Kathak is their approach to footwork.
Bharatanatyam features strong, grounded movements where the dancer maintains a bent-knee posture (aramandi). Footwork patterns such as tattadavu and nattadavu involve stamping the feet in rhythmic sequences, creating a percussive sound that complements the accompanying music.
Kathak, in contrast, is known for its fast and intricate footwork. The tatkaar technique involves rapid stamping of the feet, producing complex rhythmic patterns. The use of ghungroos (ankle bells) amplifies the effect, creating an auditory experience that is integral to the performance.
5. Hand Gestures (Mudras) and Storytelling Techniques
In Bharatanatyam, storytelling is deeply rooted in mudras (hand gestures) and facial expressions. Every hand movement carries a symbolic meaning, representing elements from nature, animals, and emotions. These gestures, combined with exaggerated expressions (abhinaya), allow the dancer to narrate mythological tales with precision.
Kathak also incorporates hand gestures but relies more on fluidity and improvisation. While mudras are present, the emphasis is placed on rhythmic footwork and graceful arm movements. Kathak dancers often use subtle facial expressions and body language to convey emotions, creating a natural, effortless storytelling style.
6. Posture and Body Movements
Bharatanatyam dancers maintain a fixed posture with a straight back and bent knees. The upper body remains relatively still, with sharp, angular movements defining the style. Every movement is deliberate, with an emphasis on symmetry and balance.
Kathak, on the other hand, features a more fluid and relaxed posture. The upper body moves freely, allowing for smooth transitions and effortless spins. This contrast in body movements makes Bharatanatyam appear structured and geometrical, while Kathak exudes grace and fluidity.
7. Speed and Dynamics of Performance
Bharatanatyam follows a structured pace that builds gradually. Performances begin with an Alarippu (invocation dance) and progress to more expressive and rhythmic pieces. The pace is measured, focusing on precise movements and deep expressions.
Kathak, however, is highly dynamic and can transition from slow, expressive movements to rapid footwork within moments. The dancer often performs chakras (spins) in quick succession, showcasing agility and control. This variation in tempo makes Kathak a visually captivating experience.
8. Themes and Storytelling Styles
Bharatanatyam traditionally revolves around themes of devotion, depicting stories of Hindu gods and goddesses. The dance is often centered on bhakti (devotion) and shringara (love).
Kathak, with its origins in both temple storytelling and royal court entertainment, offers a broader range of themes. It includes mythological stories, historical narratives, and abstract expressions of rhythm and movement. This dual heritage allows for greater experimentation and storytelling diversity.
9. Complexity and Learning Curve
Both Bharatanatyam and Kathak require dedication and years of training.
Bharatanatyam demands strong foundational training in adavus (basic steps) and mudras before a student can progress to expressive storytelling. The rigid postures and intricate hand gestures require physical strength and precision.
Kathak, while appearing more free-flowing, is equally challenging. The rapid footwork and complex rhythmic cycles demand excellent coordination and stamina. Mastering spins (chakkars) and maintaining balance while executing intricate foot patterns requires years of practice.
10. How to Identify Bharatanatyam and Kathak Easily
For those unfamiliar with classical dance, distinguishing between Bharatanatyam and Kathak can be simple if you observe key elements:
- Bharatanatyam: Angular movements, bent-knee posture, Carnatic music, structured footwork, and temple-inspired themes.
- Kathak: Fluid movements, straight posture, Hindustani music, intricate footwork, rapid spins, and courtly elegance.
Final Thoughts
Bharatanatyam and Kathak are two jewels in India’s rich cultural heritage, each offering a unique artistic experience. Whether you admire the precision of Bharatanatyam or the fluid grace of Kathak, both dance forms are testaments to India's deep-rooted traditions and evolving artistic expressions.
If you are inspired to explore these dance styles further, consider attending a live performance. Witnessing these forms in motion brings to life the stories, rhythms, and emotions that make them truly timeless.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q1. Which is older, Bharatanatyam or Kathak?
Bharatanatyam is considered one of the oldest classical dance forms, with origins dating back over 2,000 years. Kathak evolved later as a storytelling tradition in North India.
Q2. Which dance form is more difficult to learn?
Both require years of dedicated practice. Bharatanatyam focuses on precision and posture, while Kathak demands speed and control over footwork and spins.
Q3. Can men perform Bharatanatyam and Kathak?
Yes, both dance forms are performed by men and women. Many renowned male dancers have contributed significantly to these traditions.
Q4. What are the main differences in facial expressions?
Bharatanatyam emphasizes exaggerated expressions (abhinaya), while Kathak relies on subtle expressions and graceful movements.
Q5. How many ghungroos (ankle bells) are worn in each dance form?
Bharatanatyam dancers wear smaller ghungroos (usually 50 per leg), while Kathak dancers wear heavier ghungroos (often 100 or more per leg) to enhance footwork sounds.
Q6. Is Bharatanatyam only about devotion and spirituality?
While it primarily depicts devotional themes, contemporary Bharatanatyam performances also explore modern and abstract concepts.
Q7. Does Kathak always include storytelling?
Not always. While Kathak originated as a storytelling dance, modern performances often focus on rhythm, speed, and intricate footwork.
Q8. Can these dance forms be fused with modern styles?
Yes, many contemporary artists blend Bharatanatyam and Kathak with modern and international dance forms, creating innovative performances.
Q9. Do Bharatanatyam and Kathak have specific schools or styles?
Yes, Bharatanatyam has styles like Pandanallur, Thanjavur (Tanjore), and Kalakshetra, while Kathak has Jaipur, Lucknow, and Banaras gharanas, each with unique characteristics.
Q10. Which dance form is better for beginners?
It depends on personal preference. Bharatanatyam is structured and precise, making it ideal for those who prefer discipline, while Kathak’s fluidity may appeal to those who enjoy storytelling and rhythm-based movements.