The Gharana Legacy: Distinct Styles That Define Kathak

Over centuries, Kathak has flourished under royal patronage, temple traditions, and artistic innovation, giving birth to distinct gharanas (schools of thought and style). These gharanas, named after the cities where they evolved, each bring a unique philosophy, technical focus, and aesthetic sensibility to the dance. Among them, the Lucknow, Jaipur, and Banaras gharanas have stood out as the three pillars of Kathak’s evolution, each shaping the form in its own extraordinary way.

Lucknow Gharana: The Poetry of Grace

The Lucknow Gharana emerged in the royal courts of Nawab Wajid Ali Shah of Awadh during the 19th century, a period that refined and elevated Kathak into a dance of delicacy, grace, and storytelling. Under the Nawab’s patronage, Kathak evolved beyond temple traditions, becoming an artistic expression of beauty and emotions rather than just rhythm and movement.

This gharana is renowned for its Nazakat (delicacy) and Khoobsurti (beauty), setting it apart from the more footwork-heavy styles. Hand gestures (mudras), facial expressions (abhinaya), and fluid body movements take precedence over raw rhythmic power. This emphasis makes the Lucknow Gharana the most expressive and lyrical of all Kathak styles. Gatanikas, the stylized walk that enhances storytelling, is performed with unmatched finesse in this tradition.

The syllables “Dhataka Tunga” and “Kidtak Thun Thun” are central to its rhythmic compositions, adding a signature elegance. Romantic, devotional, and poetic themes dominate its performances, with dancers weaving intricate narratives through their movements.

Prominent exponents of the Lucknow Gharana include the legendary Pt. Birju Maharaj, Achhan Maharaj, Shambhu Maharaj, and Lacchu Maharaj, who transformed Kathak into an art form admired across the world.

Jaipur Gharana: The Power of Precision

The Jaipur Gharana, the oldest school of Kathak, finds its origins in the temple traditions of Rajasthan before evolving under Rajput royal patronage. Unlike the graceful storytelling of Lucknow, the Jaipur Gharana is known for its technical brilliance, intense energy, and powerful rhythmic compositions.

One of its most striking features is Rhythmic Wizardry—a mastery of intricate footwork (tatkar), rapid pirouettes (bhramaris), and complex layakari (rhythmic variations). The emphasis is on powerful, commanding movements, where each beat is executed with sharp precision. Unlike Lucknow, where hand gestures lead the storytelling, in Jaipur, the feet speak the loudest.

Another defining element of this gharana is the Parmelu compositions, which incorporate percussive syllables inspired by natural sounds like thunder, rainfall, and galloping horses. These elements reflect the deep connection of this style with Rajput traditions and martial influences.

The Jaipur Gharana’s ability to execute long rhythmic cycles with extraordinary clarity sets it apart as the most physically demanding of all Kathak styles.

Some of the most celebrated exponents of this gharana include Pt. Kundanlal Gangani, Pt. Sundarlal Gangani, and Pt. Rajendra Gangani, whose artistry continues to shape this dynamic style.

Banaras Gharana: The Spiritual Soul of Kathak

The Banaras Gharana, though often overshadowed by Lucknow and Jaipur, holds an equally significant place in Kathak’s history. Rooted in the spiritual essence of Varanasi, this Gharana blends pure dance techniques with devotional storytelling, making it a deeply immersive experience for both the dancer and the audience.

This gharana is known for its purity of movement, emphasis on Satvika Bhava (pure emotions), and intricate footwork. Unlike the flat-footed rhythms of Jaipur, Banaras footwork heavily incorporates the heels, creating a distinctive sound quality. The syllables “Tigada Dig Dig” are commonly used in its rhythmic compositions.

One of the most mesmerizing aspects of the Banaras Gharana is its Chakradar compositions, where dancers perform perfectly timed multiple spins with breathtaking precision. Unlike other gharanas, Gat (stylized movement sequences) is rarely used, and instead, the style is more rooted in rhythmic depth and spiritual themes.

This gharana is also famous for its inclusion of Bhajans and Kavittaparans, which integrate poetry with rhythm, often performed as an offering to the divine.

Some of the most renowned exponents of the Banaras Gharana include Pt. Janaki Prasad, Sitara Devi, and Pt. Gopi Krishna, who brought this devotional and deeply traditional style to the global stage.

The Gharanas: Three Paths, One Legacy

Each Kathak Gharana tells a different story, yet all are woven into the fabric of India’s cultural and artistic heritage. The Lucknow Gharana embodies graceful storytelling, the Jaipur Gharana champions technical power, and the Banaras Gharana resonates with spiritual depth. Together, they form the pillars of Kathak, ensuring that this classical art remains a living, evolving tradition.

As modern dancers blend these styles and push creative boundaries, these gharanas continue to serve as foundations of knowledge and inspiration, proving that Kathak is not just a dance—it is history, culture, and soul brought to life through movement.