Kathak India’s classical dance form embodies the rich heritage and storytelling of the country. For aspiring dancers or enthusiasts looking to deepen their knowledge, here is a curated list of essential books that can serve as valuable resources for both Kathak dancers.
Books For Kathak Dancers:
- “Natya Shastra” by Bharat Muni
Natya Shastra is an ancient Sanskrit text that is considered to be the foundational text of Indian classical dance, drama, and music. is one of the essential books for Kathak Dancers. The text is said to have been written by sage Bharata Muni, who is believed to have lived around the 5th century BC.
Natya Shastra is a vast and complex text that covers a wide range of topics, including the history and theory of dance, the different types of dance, the costumes and makeup used in dance, the musical accompaniment for dance, and the choreography of dance. The text also includes a detailed description of the nine rasas, or emotions, that are central to Indian classical dance.
Natya Shastra is a valuable resource for anyone interested in learning about Indian classical dance, drama, and music. The text is also a fascinating window into ancient Indian culture and its values.
Link to Buy : NATYASASTRA OF BHARATMUNI 1-4 VOLS
- “Kathak Gyaneshwari” by Pandit Tirathram Azad
Kathak Gyaneshwari is one of the essential books for Kathak dancers. It was written by Pandit Tirathram Azad, a noted Kathak dancer and choreographer. The book was first published in 1975 and has been translated into several languages.
Kathak Gyaneshwari is a comprehensive guide to Kathak dance. It covers all aspects of the dance, from its history and philosophy to its technique and performance. The book is illustrated with photographs and diagrams that help to explain the various steps and movements of the Kathak dance.
Kathak Gyaneshwari is an essential resource for anyone who is interested in learning about Kathak dance. It is a valuable guide for both beginners and experienced dancers.
LINK TO BUY: KATHAK GYANESHWARI BY TIRTH RAM AZAD
- “Abhinay Darpan” by Nandikeshwara
Abhinay Darpan is a classical Indian text that is a significant guide to the art of Indian classical dance Written by Nandikeswara, the text is often considered a comprehensive manual for understanding the various aspects of dance, including hand gestures (mudras), facial expressions (abhinaya), body postures (angika), and rhythm (tala).
The “Abhinaya Darpana” outlines the principles, explaining how the dancer can convey emotions and stories through their movements and expressions. It’s a crucial reference for dancers, choreographers, and enthusiasts of Indian classical dance, as it offers insights into the aesthetics and techniques of this rich cultural form. This is must read an essential book for the Kathak dancers.
- “Kathak Darpan” by PT. TIRTH RAM AZAD
Kathak Darpan is a book on the art of Kathak dance. It was written by Pandit TIRTH RAM AZAD, a noted Kathak dancer.
Kathak Darpan is a comprehensive guide to Kathak dance. It covers all aspects of the dance, from its history and philosophy to its technique and performance. The book is illustrated with photographs and diagrams that help to explain the various steps and movements of the Kathak dance.
Kathak Darpan is an essential book for the Kathak dancers and an essential resource for anyone who is interested in learning about Kathak. It is a valuable guide for both beginners and experienced dancers.
LINK TO BUY: KATHAK DARPAN BY TIRTH RAM AZAD
“Kathak Nritya” by Laxmi Narayan Garg
Kathak Nritya by Laxmi Narayan Garg. This book is a comprehensive guide to the art of Kathak dance. It covers all aspects of Kathak, from its history and theory to its techniques and performance, and becomes one of the essential book for the Kathak dancers.
Sure, here is a book on Kathak by Laxmi Narayan Garg:
- Kathak Nritya by Laxmi Narayan Garg. This essential book for the Kathak dancers is a comprehensive guide to the art of Kathak dance. It covers all aspects of Kathak, from its history and theory to its techniques and performance.
LINK TO BUY: KATHAK NRITYA
Here are some other books on Kathak by Laxmi Narayan Garg:
LINK TO BY: Kathak Pravesh
- “Kathak Nritya Shiksha (Part 1)” by Dr. Puru Dadheech
Kathak Nritya Shiksha (Part 1) is a book on the art of Kathak dance, written by Dr. Puru Dadheech. The book is divided into two parts: the first part deals with the history, origin of Kathak dance, and basics of Kathak Dance, and the second part deals with the techniques of Kathak dance. This book is must-have essential book for the Kathak dancers
LINK TO BUY: Kathak Nritya Shiksha (Part 1)
- “Kathak Nritya Shiksha (Part 2)” by Dr. Puru Dadheech
Kathak Nritya Shiksha (Part 2) is a book on the art of Kathak dance, written by Dr. Puru Dadheech deals with the techniques of Kathak dance. The author discusses the different types of Kathak dance compositions, such as the tukda, the abhinaya, and the nritya.
LINK TO BUY: Kathak Nritya Shiksha (Part 2)
- “Ang Kavya” Pt. Birju Maharaj
Ang Kavya is a book on hand movements and foot position in Kathak Dance written by Pt. Birju Maharaj particularly to contribute to the aesthetic richness of Kathak Dance. This is an essential book for the Kathak dancers for improving the aesthetics of Kathak Dance.
LINK TO BUY: ANG KAVYA
- “Kathak: Indian Classical Dance Art” by Sunil Kothari
A comprehensive book that delves into the history, aesthetics, and techniques of Kathak. Sunil Kothari, a prominent dance critic, provides insights into the evolution of the dance form and its various styles, making it an essential book for the Kathak dancers.
LINK TO BUY: KATHAK INDIAN CLASSICAL DANCE
As Kathak dancers strive to master the intricacies of their chosen art forms, these books can serve as invaluable companions on their journey. Whether you’re seeking historical context, theoretical insights, or practical guidance, the knowledge encapsulated within these pages can help you deepen your understanding and appreciation of Kathak Happy dancing and learning!
About the Author: – Neha Khunteta
Neha Khunteta is a highly experienced Kathak dancer and trainer with over 15 years of experience. She is the founder of Kathak By Neha, one of the Best Kathak Dance Academies. With her profound expertise and experience, Neha has established herself as one of the foremost educators in Kathak.
If you are interested in learning more about Kathak dance or finding out about Neha’s upcoming workshops and classes, please visit her website or contact her through the details provided in the blog.
Should you require further assistance or insights, please don’t hesitate to reach out to us through the following channels: contact us on
Email: neha@kathakbyneha.in or contact: +91-8619116616
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