Odissi
From Free net encyclopedia
Image:Odissi stamp.jpg Odissi (or Orissi) is the traditional style of dance which originated in the temples of the state of Orissa in Eastern India, where it was performed by the devadasis. It is one of the oldest surviving forms of dance, with depictions of Odissi dancing dating back as far as the 1st century BC.over the time three schools were developed.they are Mahari, Nartki and Gotipua. The first one is the devadasi tradition; the second one was used in royal courts and the last, i.e. Gotipua, is characterised by performing by male arstists ,as women,dressed in female attire. Odissi is mainly characterized by innate gracefulness, sculpturesqe poses, use of the entire body (head, eyes, feet, etc.) and use of many mudras or detailed hand positions.
Revival
The current forms of Odissi are the products of a 20th century revival.
Dance Vocabulary
Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra, dancer and teacher, was one of the leaders of this revival and one of the most popular proponents of Odissi. Guru Pankaj Charan Das, carrier of the Mahari tradition
External links
- Indian classical music and dance portal Vimoksha - An informative site on various forms of Indian classical dance and classical music.
- Odissi Dance
- http://www.odissi.usAn Effort to promote Odissi