Which of the following classical dances is referred to as the dance of the storytellers?

Kathak

The correct answer is Option (1) - Kathak

Kathak is a classical dance form that originated in Northern India of Uttar Pradesh referred to as Kathakars or storytellers for portraying the epic tales from Hindu scriptures, Mahabharata and Ramayana. The Kathakars communicate stories through rhythmic foot movements, hand gestures, facial expressions, and eye work. This performing art that incorporates legends from ancient mythology and great Indian epics, especially from the life of Lord Krishna became quite popular in the courts of North Indian kingdoms. Three specific forms of this genre that is three Gharanas (schools), which mostly differ in the emphasis given to footwork versus acting, are more famous names, the Jaipur Gharana, the Benaras Gharana, and the Lucknow Gharana.