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The earliest mention of Kathak as an art form is found
in the Arjuna-Vanavasa chapter of the Aadi-Parva of Mahabharata. In its
initial phase, Kathak is regarded to have been a mimetic representation
of Puranic literature accompanied with dance. Kathakas were Granthikas
reciting stories related to Vishnu. When Krishna was identified with
Vishnu, Granthikas began narrating Krishna-based stories. During this
time, a rich musical theater form had grown out of the rich Krishna
theater tradition of Mathura region. It is believed that Katha-Vachan,
the earliest form of Kathak was exclusively based on Krishna’s legend.
(‘Krishna Legends: The earliest form of Kathak,’ Nateswar Dance Academy)
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