Carrying Forward the Legacy of Kathak Across Borders

An Interview with Kanika Mishra.

- Puja Srivastava

Kantika ji, you come from a remarkable lineage in Indian classical arts. Can you tell us about your background and how your journey in Kathak began?

Thank you. I was born into the illustrious musical family of Banaras, known for its 13 generations of dedication to the arts. My father, the late Pandit Arjun Mishra ji, was a legendary Kathak maestro of the Lucknow Gharana. It was under his guidance that I took my first steps in Kathak. The Guru-Shishya Parampara shaped my foundation, and for the last 15 years, I've immersed myself in rigorous training, striving to uphold the distinctive grace, expression, and depth of the Lucknow Gharana.

Kathak is known for its intricate movements and storytelling. How do you embody and carry forward this classical tradition?

Kathak, as you rightly said, is one of the eight classical dance forms of India. It's not just about movement—it's poetry in motion. From rhythmic brilliance and footwork to emotive storytelling, it requires discipline and soul. I try to bring all of that into my performances while staying rooted in the traditional essence of the Lucknow Gharana. My goal is to make this rich art form accessible and inspiring to new generations, both in India and globally.

Kathak has several gharanas, each with its own distinct identity and legacy. Could you share some insights about these gharanas and what makes the Lucknow Gharana—your lineage—particularly special?