Odissi

One of the oldest surviving dance forms of India, Odissi classical dance is the dance form of the state of Orissa. The dance form dates back to 2200 B.C and evidences are found in the rock caves of Khandagiri and Udayagiri that are located in Orissa. The dance form has been modified and refined over the centuries and today we have three different styles of Odissi dance. These are:

The distinct style of Odissi dance is reflected in the relaxed grace, the striking poses and the arresting performance that are combined together at the same time.

The classical Odissi dance has two main postures which are known as Tribhanga and Chaukha. The former is a very feminine posture with a distinct three-body-bend. The hand gestures are very similar to Bharatanatyam. Usually, the Odissi dance is based on the legends and popular stories of Lord Krishna. The graceful dance depicts the relaxed ambience of the famous lord of Orissa, Lord Jagannatha of Puri.

The performance is begun with a prayer chant that is known as "Mangalacharana", which is a tribute to Earth, Lord Jagannatha, other Gods and a note of thanks to the Guru and the audience. This is followed by Batunyra, Pallavi, Abhinaya and Moksha. The Odissi dance is an attempt to attain a higher level of realization also called as Moksha. In Moksha the dancer tries to merge with the divine force in a state of total ecstasy. The dance brings the dancer closer to God and provides the ultimate bliss.