Every art form goes through ups and downs in every era. Kathak was at it’s highest up until the British invaded India.
Map of India under British rule. PC: Google Images
Even though the devotion(Bhakti) part of the dance changed from dancing in temples praising the god, to love and romance (Shrungar) dancing in the court of Mughal kings, Kathak-the dance itself never faced any criticism from the society.
It was a widely respected and learned by many. The dancers were like today’s celebrity. They would be invited to perform in functions and parties all over town. It was a matter of prestige for the host, to show off, an expensive affair indeed.
Portrayal of Kathak in Mughal era PC: Google Images
The British had banned social gatherings to avoid appraisals. Where better to get all the gossip/information/have secret gathering but the place of entertainment. The dance schools was where even the britishers would go to see and enjoy their evenings.
The government had levied taxes on brothels. To make matters simpler, they clubbed the dance schools and brothels to be in the same category. And hence the decline of respect and prestige for any dance form then onwards.
PC: Google Images
So many talented artists have gone unnoticed just because the then cultured brainwashed society did not approve of it.
It took many years and efforts of so many now well known artists such as Lacchu Maharaj, Shambhu Maharaj, Rukmini Arundale, to change people’s outlook towards this beautiful art form.
Now that the dances have flourished again, are well thought and sort after, there are new age problems that have emerged.
The portrayal of classical dances in both North and South Indian films and television - Boon or Bane.
Continued into my next article.