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Aesthetics of Indian Classical Dances with Special Reference to Kathak

By Prof. Ami Upadhyay   |   Dr. Babashaeb Ambedkar Open University, Ahmedabad
Learners enrolled: 340

There is an increasing demand of resurrecting Indian knowledge systems, ancient and indigenous Indian arts, literature and culture in the field of education. The Course on Aesthetics of Indian Classical Dances with Special Reference to Kathak is designed in keeping with the vision of the National Education Policy 2020. Course on Aesthetics of Indian Classical Dances with Special Reference to Kathak consists of its concept and definition, constituent elements of Indian Classical Dances with aesthetics of performances as described in Bharat Natya Sastra, Abhinay Darpan and Sangeet Ratnakar. The course will be highly helpful to the learners of Indian Classical Dance as well as it will make people curious to learn the same if have not learnt.

This course provides an in-depth exploration of Indian classical dance, focusing primarily on Kathak. It covers foundational concepts, including hand gestures (Hast Mudras), basic Taals (rhythmic patterns), and traditional forms like Nritta, Nritya, and Natya. Students will delve into the rich history and stylistic nuances of Kathak, exploring the Temple and Darbar traditions, different Gharanas (schools), and elements of emotional expression (Navrasa).

The course also introduces key theoretical texts, such as the Bharat Natya Shastra and Abhinay Darpan, and their influence on Indian dance. Additionally, it highlights the cultural relevance of dance in ancient epics like the Ramayana and Mahabharata and its interconnection with other art forms, including music, painting, and literature.

Through practical exercises, students will learn specific movements, such as Gatbhav and Gat Nikas, and compositions like Dhrupad, Thumri, and Tarana. The course emphasizes the Guru-Shishya tradition, underscoring the values of respect and dedication in the teacher-student relationship. By the end, students will not only develop technical dance skills but also a profound appreciation for the cultural heritage and future potential of Indian classical dance on the global stage.

The course "Aesthetics of Indian Classical Dances with Special Reference to Kathak" aims to explore the artistic, historical, and cultural elements that define the aesthetics of Indian classical dances, with a focus on Kathak. Here are some possible objectives for this course: Understand the Aesthetic Foundations: To gain a foundational understanding of the concepts of aesthetics within Indian classical dance forms, with a focus on the principles that shape the beauty, rhythm, and emotional expression in Kathak.

Explore the Historical and Cultural Context: To study the historical evolution of Kathak and other classical dance forms, tracing their origins and transformations over time, including their connections to religious, cultural, and social practices in India.

Analyze the Elements of Kathak: To analyze key elements of Kathak, including footwork (tatkaar), hand gestures (mudras), facial expressions (abhinaya), and the role of music, in order to understand how each element contributes to the dance’s overall aesthetic appeal.

Examine the Role of Rasa and Bhava: To delve into the concepts of rasa (emotional essence) and bhava (mood or sentiment), learning how Kathak dancers convey emotions and tell stories through their movements and expressions.

Study Costume and Presentation: To explore the role of costumes, jewelry, and stage design in enhancing the visual aesthetics of Kathak and other Indian classical dances.

Appreciate Regional and Stylistic Variations: To examine the different styles within Kathak (such as Lucknow and Jaipur gharanas) and how regional influences contribute to the aesthetic diversity within this classical dance form.

Understand the Interplay of Music and Dance: To understand the significance of musical accompaniment, including instruments and rhythms that are integral to Kathak, and how these elements contribute to its aesthetic experience.

Enhance Performance Skills: For students to engage in practical sessions that develop their appreciation for the technical and expressive skills required in Kathak, enhancing their ability to perform and understand the dance deeply.
Summary
Course Status : Upcoming
Course Type : Not Applicable
Language for course content : English
Duration : 12 weeks
Category :
  • Arts
Credit Points : 4
Level : Undergraduate
Start Date : 15 Jul 2025
End Date : 15 Nov 2025
Enrollment Ends : 15 Sep 2025
Exam Date :

Page Visits



Course layout

SLNo.

Course Title

1

Brief Introduction of Indian Classical Dances, Indian Classical Dance Basic Definitions and Explanation

2

Definition of HastMudhra- Hand Gesture and demonstration and explanation of Asamyukta Hast Mudra

Demonstration and Explanation of Samyukta Hastmudra.

3

Indian Classical Dance: Details of Basic Taals, Desi and Margi and Lok Dharmi and Natya Dharmi, Nritta, Nritya and Natya, Lasya and Tandav

4

Temple Tradition and Darbar Tradition of Kathak Dance

Definition and Types of Abhinaya, Rangmanch- the sequence of Presentation/Performance

5

Story of Dashavtar-Reincarnation and Hast Mudras of Dashavtar Physical,Mental and Intellectual usefulness of Kathak

6

Importance of Guru Shishya Parampara and the qualities of the disciple and his duties towards the Guru, Navrasa

7

Definition of the execution of Ras, Sthai Bhav,Bhav,Vibhav,Anbhav, Vyabhichari etc. Types of Nayaka, Types of Nayikas

8

Origin of theater (according to Bharat), use of theater and purpose of theatre. Gharanas in Kathak

9

Gatbhav and Gat Nikas Explanation of Gatbhav, Gat Nikas and various types

of songs/bandish performed in kathak like Ashtapadi, Dhrupad, Thumri, Chaturanga Trivat, Tarana, Chaiti, Kajri, Hori etc

10

Shiro Bhed, Greeva Bhed and Dristi Bhed, Introduction of Bharat Natya Shastra, Abhinay Darpan and Sangeet Ratnakar

11

Brief information about Ramayan, Mahabharat, Bhagavat Puran, and Geet Govind. Relation of dance to music, music, painting, sculpture and literature

12

Brief Biography of Famous Artists, Popularity of Indian dance in foreign countries and Future of Indian Classical Dance

Instructor bio



Prof. Ami Upadhyay is the vice-chancellor of the only State Open University in Gujarat, Dr. Babasaheb Ambedkar Open University since 2019. She is the Professor and Head, 
Department of English and Director, School of Humanities and Social Sciences at the University. She is an ardent student of English and Gujarati literature and an excellent teacher. She holds an MPhil and a PhD in English, with interest in subjects like Naturopathy and Yogic Science. She is a “Kathak Visharad” and “Kathak Shiksha Visharad” from Akhil Bharatiya Gandharva Mahavidyalaya Mandal, Mumbai since 1998 and 2003 respectively. She is a passionate Kathak dancer with 20 years of training and more than two decades of teaching experience in the same. She has delivered talks on Indian Arts, Indian Classical Dances, Indian Aesthetics and has also performed as a classical dancer across the Globe. She is a member, Advisory Committee, Akhil Bhartiya Gandharva Mahavidyalaya Mandal, Mumbai. She has also served on the various committees by ICSSR, Central as well as State Government. She has been awarded with very prestigious award of Gujarat Government in the field of Dance- Gujarat Gaurav Puraskar.

She is also trained in National Cadet Corps’ Navy service. Her interests in art and literature make her academic and administrative leadership more successful. She has a keen interest in women's empowerment and social welfare, for which she works with various national and international organizations. She is the member of various committees constituted by Ministry of Education, Government of India; University Grants Commission; Association of Indian Universities; Education Department, Government of Gujarat and other institutes of regional/national/international importance.

She has more than 40 publications in form of Books and Research Articles; and has offered service as Speaker /Resource Person on invitation in more than 100 events at National and International Level. She has also presented papers in more than 50 International, National and State Level conferences and attended more than 20 Symposiums and Workshops.

 

Awards and Recognition:

 

1. Award of Research Project – Special call for collaborative Research proposals on Longitudinal studies in Social and Human Sciences, Research project entitled, “ Integration of Bharatiya Knowledge System in Curricula in Higher Education” from Indian Council of Social Sciences Research (ICSSR), New Delhi

2. She has been awarded with very prestigious award of Gujarat Government in the field of Dance- Gujarat Gaurav Puraskar.

3. She has been awarded with Honorary Fellowship by Commonwealth of Learning, Canada.

4. She has been conferred with “Pride of the Nation Excellence Award – 2021” for achievements in Academics and Administration from Shri Om Birlaji, Hon’ble Speaker of Lok Sabha; Shri Manoj Sinhaji, Lieutenant Governor of Jammu and Kashmir; Government of India; Shri B.P. Singhji, Eminent author and former Governor, Sikkim; and Shri Manoj Tiwariji, Hon’ble Member of the Parliament.

5. She is the recipient of Shri Maanbhai Bhatt Pratishthit Nagrik Samman 2020 (Shri Maanbhai Bhatt Honour of a Dignified Citizen).

6. She has been conferred with an ‘Award of Honour’ for achievement as Open and Distance Learning Administrator by Indian Distance Education Association (IDEA).

7. She has been awarded as ‘The Best Vice Chancellor in Open and Distance Learning’

8. She has been conferred with ‘Vibrant Leadership Awards 2020’ for Excellence in Innovative Practices in Higher Education.

9. She has been appreciated with a certificate of ‘Recognition of Exemplary Contribution towards Education’ for transforming students into future leaders through guidance and imbibing outstanding leadership skills.

10. Life time Achievement Award by AIPC for exemplary contribution in the field of art and education.

11. Awarded by Social Media Award for ‘Use of Social Media for the Positive Change in the Society’.


Course certificate

Exam Registration URL: Announcements will be made when the registration form is open for registrations.


The online registration form has to be filled, and the certification exam fee needs to be paid.


CRITERIA TO GET A CERTIFICATE


30 Marks will be allocated for Internal Assessment (Final Quiz- Mandatory) which will be available at the end of the course and 70 Marks will be allocated for end term proctored examination.


A  minimum of 40% passing marks (i.e. at-least 12 marks in Internal Assessment (Final Quiz- Mandatory) & 28 Marks in external proctored examination) will be required for being eligible for SWAYAM Certificate.


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