Chakkar

Hindi

The fast spins characteristic of Kathak.

TechniqueKathak

Meaning

Chakkars are the rapid turns Kathak is known for, taken on the spot with the body held upright and the skirt flaring. They are counted into the rhythmic cycle and typically build to land precisely on the sam, the first beat.

Related words

TihaiA phrase repeated three times to land on the first beat.SamThe first beat of the rhythmic cycle.TatkarKathak footwork — the rhythmic language of the feet.AdavuThe basic unit of Bharatanatyam movement — its alphabet.TribhangiThe three-bend stance central to Odissi.AbhinayaThe art of expression — making meaning visible.

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