Bharatanatyam vs. Kathak — What's the Difference?

Bharatanatyam and Kathak are both classical dance forms of India, each with a rich history and distinct style. Kathak, originating from North India, places a greater emphasis on footwork, with the dancer wearing ankle bells and performing intricate patterns on the rhythm. Unlike Bharatanatyam, Kathak's repertoire includes storytelling through dance, where the dancer narrates tales from epics like the Mahabharata and the Ramayana, as well as Persian and Urdu poetry, reflecting its historical influence by Islamic culture.

The musical accompaniment for each dance form also significantly differs. Bharatanatyam performances are usually accompanied by Carnatic music, a system of music commonly associated with the southern part of the Indian subcontinent. This music emphasizes vocal music; even when instruments are used, they are played in a manner that mimics singing. Kathak, on the other hand, is performed to Hindustani classical music, known for its emphasis on improvisation and exploration of all aspects of a raga (melodic framework).

Costuming in Bharatanatyam and Kathak also reflects their distinct aesthetic and historical backgrounds. Bharatanatyam dancers wear a tailored costume that includes a pleated piece of cloth draped over pants, enabling them to execute the precise geometric positions characteristic of the dance. The costume is richly decorated, complementing the dance's spirituality and discipline. Kathak costumes vary depending on the dancer's gender, with female dancers typically wearing a long skirt (lehenga) and a blouse (choli), often accompanied by a veil or scarf (dupatta), and male dancers wearing a kurta and churidar. The costumes are designed to enhance the fluidity and grace of Kathak movements.

The training and technique of both dance forms are rigorous but focus on different aspects of the dancer's skill set. Bharatanatyam training emphasizes the mastery of static poses, the nuance of facial expressions, and the symbolic gestures of hand movements (mudras) to tell stories. Kathak training, while also incorporating expressive gestures, places a stronger emphasis on footwork, spins (chakkars), and the dancer's ability to improvise rhythmically to the music.

Despite their differences, both Bharatanatyam and Kathak are performed worldwide, celebrated for their beauty, complexity, and the cultural heritage they represent. Each form offers a unique window into India's diverse historical, religious, and cultural landscapes, enchanting audiences with their distinct narratives, costumes, and musical accompaniment.