Kathak, My New Love

My lovely dance instructor invited me and another good friend (also a lover of all things Indian) to perform Kathak at a stylish wedding of two Bohemian artists in New York City several weeks ago. Hmmm...being Indian for a day?...let me think about that one...umm...YES, I'll do it!!


It was such a fantastic experience and a night I will remember forever. My dear friends that I danced with are two of the most special and beautiful souls I know. They are the type of women who inspire and uplift with their warm presence and spiritual energy. Time stands still when I'm with them. I felt like Cinderella at the stroke of midnight when the evening ended.

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And....the special evening was just one more excellent excuse to wear my bangles, anklets and bindi!
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My interest in Kathak began when my husband and I were in India in December last year. I had been dancing "Bollywood" for a while and looking for something more traditional and spiritual. In Delhi, we stayed with Mahesh's very good friend, Sanjay and his gracious wife, Priya. Their lovely 12 year old daughter, Saraswati, practices Kathak and put on a wonderful performance for us during our stay. Her dance instructor sang bols (rhythmic words) and played his tabla to direct her dance. He comes to their home each week for Saraswati's practice. Her mastery at spinning made me dizzy. I could only hope to become that good.

Also, while staying at Udaipur's Lake Palace (see previous post Sweet Lap of Luxury), I was entranced by the Kathak performer. She danced with so much soul and mesmerized the entire audience, especially the men! I am learning the power of abhinaya which is body language and expression without speech.

Kathak (which translates: to tell a story) is an ancient art originating in the 13th century in Hindu temples. I enjoy learning about Hinduism through the spirit of the dance which is embedded with the elegant poses resembling the many manifestations of God, including Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva and Ganesh. One of my favorite poses is Shiva, which is why I now have this nagging hip pain :).

My dance instructor gracefully teaches about abhinaya (expression), mudras (divine hand gestures) and fast rhythmic foot work. Above all, she teaches by example that dance comes from within the spirit and needs to be felt from the soul.

I am so looking forward to our next performance...

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