Odissi - Introduction

Odissi can quite rightly claim to be the most ancient amongst the Indian classical dances. Evidence of a dance known as the Odhra Magadhai existed even before the Natyasastra and is mentioned in the above work. The rich temple and monument tradition of Orissa are adorned with sculptures depicting this dance form. Literary evidence is also massive, with many manuscripts illustrating the progress of Odissi through the ages. The dancers of Odissi became essential to the temple and ceremonies and social occasions could not be considered complete without them.

Odissi can quite rightly claim to be the most ancient amongst the Indian classical dances. Evidence of a dance known as the Odhra Magadhai existed even before the Natyasastra and is mentioned in the above work. The rich temple and monument tradition of Orissa are adorned with sculptures depicting this dance

form. Literary evidence is also massive, with many manuscripts illustrating the progress of Odissi through the ages. The dancers of Odissi became essential to the temple and ceremonies and social occasions could not be considered complete without them.

Odissi - Theory and Technique

Odissi - Repertoire