SUPPORT MATERIALS

The study of a classical tradition such as Kathak requires ongoing study and practice outside of class. Below is a list of various tools that students can access to develop a consistent practice routine.  

We will continue to add to this list of resources. 

There are various apps that can provide musical accompaniment while practicing. The app most used in class is NagmaLive, and the app most highly recommended by Farah. This is an app available for purchase on various platforms. It is recommended that you purchase the kathak mode or the option beyond that. Brief video to help you understand how to use the app can be found HERE.

It is imperative for students of all ages and levels to study and learn the terminology and theoretical aspects of Kathak, the music, and the history that surrounds the classical arts of South Asia. Click here to access basic terminology. We suggest that students print this out and keep a copy in their notebooks.

• Students are required to wear kurtas (ideally at least to just above the knee or longer) and leggings/churidar (ideally full length - required if wearing ghungroo) or salwar. 
   
• Hair needs to be pulled back and out of the face. Have extra clips on hand if needed.
   
• Mornings can be cold in the studio, but sweatshirts, jackets and socks must be removed once class begins. Please layer underneath your kurta if needed. 
   
• No shoes are allowed inside the studio. 
   
• All students should plan to arrive about 10 minutes prior to the start of class, and students wearing ghungroo must arrive 20 minutes before class.
   
• Before entering the studio, please be mindful of what is being danced at that time. If the class is in the middle of doing Pranam, we ask that you wait until they are done before you enter. Also, if you are running late and you see your own class starting their Pranam, please wait silently outside and enter when they are done. 
   
• Again, shoes must be placed neatly in the lobby area. 

1. Ghungroo -  only for those who have received bells from Farah. Also be sure to have felt, nylon and extra socks for padding at base of ghungroo.

2. Water bottles - Though we do have water on hand, please help us be environmentally conscious and bring your own water bottle with your name on it. 

3. Notebook, pen and pencil - we sometimes need to write down what we are doing in class and/or learn theory and taal notation. 

Please be sure to have your name on all of your items such as notebooks, water bottles, sweatshirts, jackets, etc. 

Students should only begin to wear ghungroo upon the recommendation/invitation from Farah. This usually takes a minimum of 1.5 to 2 years of study, and is individually based on the progress of the student in various ways. 

Students are required to purchase ghungroo through Noorani Dance and participate in a ceremony to initiate this next phase of their study. 

This is mainly applicable to students who already wear ghungroo, unless otherwise recommended by Farah. 

In place of wearing ghungroo during your home practice, it can be advantageous to sometimes wear weights instead. This can help to save time as well as allow the student to hear the sounds of their feet that can often be masked when only wearing ghungroo, but can still provide the weight and grounding as is present with ghungroo. 

Recommendations are categorized for Teens & Adults vs Children. We are also including wrist weights for those interested in using those, but please discuss with Farah first. 

Students will need to have large cut out socks to place beneath the weight (for ankles only) as well as a thick sock to wear at the base of the weight so it does not slide and hit the foot.

Purchase Recommendations

Teens & Adults

2.5 lb Ankle Weights

2 1lb Wrist Weights

Children

1.5 Ankle Weights