The dance world recently lost a leading figure, the renowned Kathak dancer Pandit Munna Shukla. His memorable performances and dedication to the art form earned him numerous honours, including the Sangeet Natak Akademi Award (2006), Sahitya Kala Parishad Award (2003), and the Saraswathi Samman (2011). This piece aims to examine the ace performer’s legacy while exploring the historical roots, evolution, and influence of Kathak, the dance form he so passionately epitomized.
About Kathak
At its heart, Kathak is a storytelling art form. The name itself derives from ‘Katha’, meaning story, an absolute indication of the dance’s narrative essence. It originated in Northern India, where it was typically performed in temples or villages as a means of narrating stories derived from ancient scriptures. It is one of the eight classical dances of India.
Evolution of Kathak
Kathak evolved into a distinct style of dance between the fifteenth and sixteenth centuries, influenced significantly by the Bhakti movement. The legends of Radha-Krishna were brought to life through folk plays known as rasa lila, integrating folk dance with the primary gestures of Kathak performers. As the Mughal emperor’s reign progressed, Kathak morphed into a courtly performance art, incorporating new elements and evolving its distinctive style. Wajid Ali Shah, the last Nawab of Awadh, played a significant role in its development by offering considerable patronage.
The Dance Style
Kathak is generally a solo performance, characterized by intricate footwork, fine movements, and expressive mime. Often, the dancer pauses to recite verses, later portraying them through motion. Simultaneously, Kathak is unique as it is wedded to Hindustani or North Indian music. Some renowned Kathak dancers include Birju Maharaj and Sitara Devi, alongside the late Pandit Munna Shukla.
Other Classical Dances in India
India is home to a variety of other classical dances, including Bharatanatyam from Tamil Nadu, Kathakali and Mohiniyattam from Kerala, Kuchipudi from Andhra Pradesh, Odissi from Odisha, Sattriya from Assam, and Manipuri from Manipur.
Bhakti Movement’s Influence
The Bhakti movement, which unfolded between the seventh and ninth centuries in Tamil Nadu, significantly influenced the evolution of Kathak. The devotional verses of the Nayanars (Shiva devotees) and Alvars (Vishnu devotees) emphasized a personal, emotional connection between deity and worshiper. As these ideas gradually spread northwards, the use of local languages in conveying Bhakti ideology became prevalent. Saints like Jnanadeva, Kabir, Surdas, Tulsidas, Shankaradeva, Chaitanya, Chandidas, and Mirabai translated Sanskrit works into vernacular languages, ensuring accessibility to a broader demographic.
The life and achievements of Pandit Munna Shukla stand testament to the enduring appeal and cultural significance of Kathak. His contributions, both as a performer and promoter of this art form, have left an indelible mark on the world of dance.
