Odissi

Odissi Dancer

Dancing Figures

Odissi is a classical Indian dance that originated in Odisha, India

Utkal Dibas 2022

Sitara Thobani Odissi classical dance mudra India (16)

Mrutyuh

Odissi is one of the classical dance forms of India that originated in the eastern coastal state of Odisha. Known for its graceful movements, fluid dynamics, and expressive gestures, Odissi dance is a deeply spiritual and emotive dance form that has been practiced for centuries. It is characterized by its unique combination of mudras (hand gestures), bhava (emotion), raga (melody), and tala (rhythm), which together tell stories of ancient myths and spiritual ideas.

History

The origins of Odissi dance can be traced back to the 2nd century BCE, as evidenced by archaeological findings such as the cave paintings in Udayagiri and Khandagiri in Odisha, which depict dancers in poses resembling those used in Odissi dance. Historically, Odissi was performed predominantly by the 'Maharis' (temple dancers) and later by the 'Gotipuas' (young boys dressed as girls) in temples as a form of worship. Over the centuries, it evolved into a classical dance form under the patronage of Odisha's royal courts.

Performance

An Odissi performance is a beautiful blend of nritta (pure dance), nritya (expressive dance), and natya (dramatic storytelling). It starts with an invocation or Mangalacharan, followed by Batu Nrutya, Pallavi, Abhinaya, and Moksha. Batu Nrutya showcases rhythmic elements and dance postures, Pallavi is a pure dance elaboration based on a musical phrase, Abhinaya is the expressive part where the dancer tells a story or enacts a poem, and Moksha represents spiritual release, combining fast-paced movements with a spiritual fervor.

Costume and Jewelry

The costume for Odissi dance is distinctive and elaborate, consisting of a silk saree draped in a traditional manner, allowing flexibility while accentuating the dance movements. The makeup and jewelry are elaborate, with dancers adorning themselves with headpieces, necklaces, armlets, waist belts, and anklets made of silver filigree work, typical of Odishan craftsmanship.

Music and Instruments

The music of Odissi dance is based on the classical music of Odisha, known as Odissi music. It incorporates both the tala (rhythmic cycles) and the raga (melodic scales). The primary musical instruments used in Odissi are the mardala (a type of drum), the flute, the sitar, and the violin.

Training and Gurus

Training in Odissi dance is traditionally passed down from guru (teacher) to shishya (student) in a guru-shishya parampara (lineage). Some of the renowned gurus who have been instrumental in the revival and popularization of Odissi dance include Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra, Guru Pankaj Charan Das, and Guru Debaprasad Das.

Recognition and Global Appeal

Odissi has gained international recognition and is performed worldwide. It is celebrated for its ability to convey deep emotional expressions, ranging from devotion and love to sorrow and joy. Festivals such as the Konark Dance Festival and the Mukteswar Dance Festival in Odisha showcase Odissi among other classical Indian dance forms, drawing audiences and performers from across the globe.