Beginner Kathak Dance Course - Your First Step into Kathak

This course integrates the sacred traditions of Kathak with a structured learning approach for beginners. Rooted in the Dadheech lineage, the course introduces students to both the technical foundations and the devotional spirit of Kathak, combining rhythm, expression, and storytelling with insights into Indian cultural traditions.

In this course, students will learn to:

• Begin each session with devotional Ganesh shlokas and verses from Abhinaya Darpan such as “Yato hasto tato drishti…” to connect dance with spiritual tradition.

• Understand the fundamentals of taal (rhythm) and laya (tempo), starting with Teentaal, including concepts like sam, taali, khaali, and avartan.

• Develop strong rhythmic foundation through tatkaar (basic footwork) and recitation of bols with hand and foot coordination.

• Learn to perform classical Kathak elements such as todas, tukdas, chakkardar todas, and parans.

• Practice chakkars (spins) with proper hand and foot coordination.

• Explore abhinaya (expressive storytelling) through kavitts of Radha and Krishna and simple devotional bhajans.

• Understand the cultural and symbolic aspects of Kathak, including classical adornments and their meanings in Indian traditions.

The curriculum is structured into three progressive modules, culminating in a Diploma from the Natavari Kathak Nritya Academy, Indore, offering learners a meaningful beginning to their Kathak journey.

About the Teacher

Harshita Sharma Dadheech is a Kathak dancer and teacher from the renowned Dadheech lineage, one of the most respected traditions in Kathak.

She began her training at a young age in Jabalpur and later completed her Diploma Honours from Kathak Kendra, New Delhi. She continues her advanced training in the Guru–Shishya Parampara under her Gurus, Padma Shri Dr. Puru Dadheech and Sangeet Natak Akademi awardee Dr. Vibha Dadheech.

Known for her grace, clarity of rhythm, and expressive storytelling, Harshita combines deep traditional training with a warm and supportive teaching style. Her performances exploring rare forms of Kathak such as Pracheen Angas and Gat Nikaas have earned appreciation from audiences in India and around the world.

As a teacher, Harshita focuses on helping students understand not only the technique of Kathak but also the cultural and spiritual essence behind the dance. Her patient guidance and personalized feedback help beginners build confidence while developing rhythm, expression, and a strong foundation in Kathak.