The most popularly recognised classical dance forms are eight, which have been mentioned in the ancient Indian text of Natya Shastra. These are 8 Indian classical dance forms - Kathak (North India, Bharatnatyam) ( South India ), Kathakali ( South-west India), Odissi ( Odissa), Manipuri (Manipur), Kuchipudi ( Andhra Pradesh), Mohinyattam ( Kerala), Sattriya ( Assam).

Kathak dance is native to North India and it is one of 8 Indian classical dance forms. Kathak is derived from the Sanskrit word 'KATHA' which means story and ‘KATHAN’ which means to tell, and Katha-kaars which are the storytellers. They travelled village to village narrating stories from the sacred literature and folk tales of India. Music, gestures, mime and movements were added to make the listening of these stories more memorable and interesting. The Kathak dance form emphasises rhythmic foot movements with bells (Ghungroo). The legs and torso are generally straight. Another key feature of Kathak is the use of numberless spins or circles. There are three different traditions of Kathak which are called ‘Gharana’. They are known as Jaipur, Lucknow and Benaras gharana.

As mentioned in the Natyashastra, Indian classical dance has threefold divisions:
Nritta: Nritta is pure technical dance which consists of rhythmic movements of body and various patterns of footwork.
Nritya: Nritya is a dance which emphasises on suggestive facial expressions along with hand gestures and symbolic body movements. The dance which is performed to convey the meaning of a theme.
Natya: Natya is a presentation of a particular mythological, historical character. It depicts the physical and emotional condition of the character.

Bhakti Era-The first major evolution of Kathak came with the spread of Vaishnavism ( worship of Lord Vishnu and Lord Krishna ). Kathak evolved as an expression of devotion through love ( prem bhakti) towards Lord Krishna. It had a powerful influence on Kathak. Radha- Krishna stories became an integral part of the Kathak presentation.
Mughal Era-During the hold of Mughal emperors Kathak went through a big transformation. Dancers were more focused on technical aspects, variation of rhythm and speedy turns. Many new compositions were introduced. Grace, charm and delicacy became an important part of the presentation. Kathak was merged with many other musical forms. Traditional costumes got replaced with Mughal influenced patterns. Kathak was influenced by the Mughal Royalty.
Today, Kathak has developed into a refined art form for the concert hall that blends the influences of both eras.

Kathak levels are Foundation (Beginners), Development (intermediate) and Proficiency (advanced). click here.

The Mudra Art Academy offers kathak classes in multiple cities across the globe - Switzerland, Germany (collaboration with Mr. Deodatt Persaud, Samvedan), India, Singapore.

The minimum age to join our classes is 7 years. At this age, the child will be enrolling into the ‘Kids Batch’. There is no limit on the maximum age to join.

Yes, the courses for the Prarambhik, Bhushan, Visharad, Bhaskar, Churamani examinations have been designed as per Prachin Kala Kendra - India and graded after careful consideration and planning in collaboration with the recognized experts so that they meet both academic and professional requirements. click here.

Yes, for the Prarambhik, Bhushan, Visharad, Bhaskar, Churamani examinations, Nivedita Joshi will provide preparation lessons.

Prachin Kala Kendra was established in 1956, Pracheen Kala Kendra is one of the oldest, premier and prestigious organisations of India dedicated to promotion, preservation and dissemination of Indian Classical arts. At present , Pracheen Kala Kendra is a well known institution imparting quality education and training under ancient Gurukul parampara in the subjects of Indian Classical Music including Carnatic Music (Vocal & Instrumental), Classical Dances (e.g. Kathak, Bharatnatyam, Odissi Dance, etc.) and Fine Arts (Painting) and conducting examinations in the field of performing and visual arts for the last 60 years.

Kathak has three different styles such as Jaipur, Lucknow and Benaras. Each tradition has a unique way of dance presentation. We recommend the students with previous learning experiences to have some Kathak sessions with Nivedita Joshi to know and understand about further training sessions. Considering the students with previous learning experience its easy for them to progress faster than others with consistency and regular individual practice.

For registration information, click here.

Yes, absolutely. We welcome new students throughout the year.

It’s never too late to start! But the minimum age to join our classes is 7 years. All dance enthusiasts are welcome at Mudra Art Academy Switzerland.

Students should wear a long cotton shirt (kurta) with cotton trousers (churidar or salwar) Hair should be tied back in a neat bun or a braid.

Yes. All new students are encouraged to attend a free trial class (1st one as demo on request). Please send us an enquiry and you will get an opportunity to discussed directly with Nivedita Joshi click here.

Yes, Private lessons are possible depending on the location. Please send us an enquiry and you will get an opportunity to discussed directly with Nivedita Joshi click here.

Please send us an enquiry and you will get an opportunity to discussed directly with Nivedita Joshi. click here.

Yes, if you are from India, Singapore or Europe, we recommend you to start online and as you progress, we can organize workshops in India and Singapore. We also have the possibility to give online courses if you are from a Swiss canton other than Basel and we recommend you to attend courses in Basel from time to time.click here.