Wajid Ali Shah
Explanation
Kathak is a classical dance form of North India that evolved through the Bhakti movement and later received court patronage. Its elevation to a major classical art form with distinct stylistic features occurred primarily during the 19th century under the patronage of the regional successor states, specifically Awadh.Analysis of Options:
- Anantavarman: Incorrect. Anantavarman Chodaganga Deva was a ruler of the Eastern Ganga dynasty in the 12th century. He is historically significant for initiating the construction of the Jagannath Temple at Puri, not for Kathak.
- Wajid Ali Shah Wajid Ali Shah: Correct. He was the last Nawab of Awadh (1847–1856). A great patron of the arts, he is specifically credited with the revival and elevation of Kathak. He introduced the Thumri into Kathak and emphasized abhinaya (expression). He himself was a skilled dancer and composer (using the pen name 'Akhtarpiya'). The Lucknow Gharana of Kathak flourished under his reign.
- Rana Kumbha Rana Kumbha: Incorrect. He was a 15th-century ruler of Mewar. While he was a renowned patron of music and architecture (authoring the Sangeet Raj), his reign predates the 19th-century evolution of Kathak.
- Raja Man Singh Raja Man Singh: Incorrect. Raja Man Singh Tomar of Gwalior (15th century) is credited with patronizing and refining the Dhrupad style of music. He is not associated with the 19th-century development of Kathak.
Key Takeaway: Wajid Ali Shah is the key historical figure associated with the golden age of Kathak in the 19th century, particularly the development of the Lucknow Gharana.