Celebrated Indian dancer Gopi Krishna was a maestro of which of the following classical dance forms?

Introduction / Context:
India has several classical dance forms, each with its own lineage of legendary performers. Many general knowledge questions test whether you can correctly match a famous dancer with the style they represent. Gopi Krishna was a renowned Indian dancer whose name is closely associated with one particular dance form. Recognising that association is the key to this question.

Given Data / Assumptions:

• We are talking about Gopi Krishna, a celebrated Indian dancer.
• The question asks for the classical dance form in which he was a maestro.
• Options include Bharatanatyam, Manipuri, Kathak, Kuchipudi and Odissi.
• Only one dance form should correctly match his core reputation.

Concept / Approach:
The concept is mapping dancers to styles. Gopi Krishna is most famously known as a Kathak dancer and choreographer. Kathak is a North Indian classical dance form that evolved from storytelling traditions. Gopi Krishna’s performances, films and stage work all emphasised Kathak footwork, spins and expressive storytelling. Other listed forms are South or East Indian classical styles that belong to different lineages and star performers.

Step-by-Step Solution:
Step 1: Recall Gopi Krishna’s name in connection with classical dance and Hindi cinema. Step 2: Remember that he was widely acclaimed for his Kathak performances and choreographies. Step 3: Compare this with the options: Bharatanatyam and Kuchipudi are strongly associated with Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, Manipuri with Manipur, Odissi with Odisha. Step 4: Note that Gopi Krishna’s fame primarily lies in Kathak, a North Indian dance tradition. Step 5: Mark “Kathak” as the correct answer.

Verification / Alternative check:
You might recall film sequences and stage shows where Gopi Krishna’s rapid footwork and chakkars (spins) were highlighted. These are signature features of Kathak rather than Bharatanatyam or Odissi, which have different postures and movements. Biographical notes and dance history books consistently introduce him as a leading Kathak exponent, which confirms the choice.

Why Other Options Are Wrong:
Bharatanatyam: A classical dance from Tamil Nadu with a different posture and stylistic tradition; Gopi Krishna is not its iconic exponent.
Manipuri: A dance form from Manipur, linked more with performers from the North-East, not with Gopi Krishna.
Kuchipudi: Originating in Andhra Pradesh, associated with other gurus and dancers.
Odissi: From Odisha, distinct costume and movements; Gopi Krishna is not known as an Odissi maestro.

Common Pitfalls:
Students often confuse famous names across dance forms, especially when multiple Indian classical dance styles are listed together. A useful exam strategy is to remember at least one or two star exponents for each major classical dance: for example, Gopi Krishna for Kathak, Rukmini Devi Arundale for Bharatanatyam and Kelucharan Mohapatra for Odissi. This mental mapping reduces guesswork in such questions.

Final Answer:
Gopi Krishna was a maestro of Kathak.