Kathak is a classical dance form that originated in northern India. The word Kathak comes from "katha" meaning story and "kathakar" meaning storyteller. In ancient times, nomadic performers called kathakas would recite stories from Hindu epics through a combination of dance, music, and mime. Over time, Kathak developed different styles at royal courts. Today it is one of the eight classical Indian dance forms and is practiced in various styles passed down through generational gurus.