You do not need to arrive knowing steps. Arrive with a clear camera view, comfortable clothing and permission to ask questions.
A first Kathak class is an introduction and a chance to see whether the teaching suits you, not a test of how quickly you can copy a dancer. NrityaPriya offers a FREE demo for that first step. Your teacher may discuss your goals, check your practice setup and introduce posture, rhythm or a short movement phrase. A learner in a different country can share their local availability so a mutually convenient time can be arranged.
Before you join
Wear comfortable clothing that allows movement and shows your posture. Tie back hair and remove jewellery or accessories that could catch. Ask about footwear and the floor before class, and don't buy bells or a costume just because performers wear them.
Online, set up early and check that the teacher can see your head, hands and feet. Keep water nearby but outside the movement area. Mention any relevant movement limitation before participating; an online teacher can't diagnose an injury or judge medical fitness.
Meeting rhythm and footwork
Your teacher may introduce a salutation and a gentle preparation before basic steps. A common beginner tatkar bol is ta thei thei tat, aa thei thei tat, though teaching versions differ. Learn the syllables and movement together; don't substitute an unrelated tabla phrase and assume it is the same exercise.
A good first task might be saying the phrase at a steady pace, then doing only the assigned portion while the teacher watches. Losing the count shows what needs slowing down; it's not a reason to strike the floor harder.
Hands, gaze and coordination
Hand positions or a simple expressive action may be introduced alongside footwork. You might practise an arm pathway without moving the feet first, then combine them later. Adding every detail at once makes a correction harder to follow.
Ask whether the teacher's screen is mirrored and which side they want you to use. Repeat the instruction in your own words, for example 'I begin on my right, then change weight here.' That's clearer than guessing from the screen.
What to ask before the lesson ends
Ask for one manageable practice task, the count or bol to use, and the main thing to watch. Confirm whether turns or bells are appropriate yet. If the class is a demo, ask what regular lessons would cover and how beginners are placed.
A good first class leaves you understanding a small piece of material and knowing the next step. You don't need to learn a set number of gestures or two complete patterns in one session. Judge whether explanations and corrections are understandable, not how many steps you leave with.