AGARTALA, March 1 (TIWN): Dancing is a great way to create regular social engagements and dancing can also help you to overcome shyness in social situations, said Chief Minister Manik Sarkar while addressing in the 12 hour long Katthaak Marathon organized by Manjir at Rabindra Bhavan, here today.

Manik Sarkar further said that Katthayak is one of the most important classical dances of India. Katthayak  is said to be derived from the word katha, meaning "the art of storytelling." The Katthayak dance form originated in north India and was very similar to the Bharatnatyam dance form. In ancient India, there were Katthakars or bards who used to recite religious and mythological tales to the accompaniment music, mime and dance.

Under the influence of Persian and Muslim traditions Katthayak dance assumed the form of courtly entertainment. Under the patronage of medieval rulers and Nawabs a class of dancing girls and courtesans emerged to entertain the palaces and courts. Medieval traditions imparted Katthayak a distinct Hindu-Muslim texture. Thus, with the passage of time Katthayak went on changing its form and character. This change was also reflected in the dress of Katthayak dance.

During the nineteenth century Katthayak enjoyed a revival and gained prominence among the kings and zamindars (feudal lords) not only as a form of entertainment but also as a classical art form. Slowly and gradually Gharanas or schools of Katthayak emerged.

Manik Sarkar with the delegates sitting on a dais of Kathak marathon programme at Agartala Rabindra Bhawan. TIWN Pic Mar 1