Odissi Overview:

Odissi is an Indian classical dance form originating from the Hindu temples  of Orissa in India.   One of the oldest dance forms according to archaeological evidence found in bas- relief, temples, and the Natya Shastra..  Odissi is a combination of tandava (masculine) and lasya (graceful) positions enhanced with fluid upper torso movements and graceful gestures balanced with strong footwork. 

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Odissi technique is comprised of two main postures, Chowka and Tribhangi.  The chowka is a masculine position resembling a square stance very similar to the Hindu God Lord Jaganath.  The tribhangi is a feminine position.  Tribhanghi means  three (tri) folds of the body (bhangi). A dancer performs with three distinct curve/folds on their body at neck, chest, and pelvis.   Both postures utilize  the torso movement, which is a controlled  side to side fluid movement, like the waves washing along the beaches of Puri.

 

Odissi Repetoire: 

Mangalcharan- An invocation piece with a flower offering to a specific deity. 

Batu- A nritta technique piece where the basic  stances of chowka and tribhangi are interchanged and enhanced by sculptureque poses.   This is a pure dance offering in honor of Lord Batuka Bhairava, one of the forms of Lord Shiva.

Pallavi- a Pure dance item focused on a particular Raga and enhanced with complex rhythm structures.  The item gradually increases in speed and the dancer performs  with continued grace and technical accuracy.

Abhinaya- The acting portion  which expresses stories, emotions, and bhava.    

Moksha: The concluding dance item which depicts the ultimate release of the soul.

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Study:

The study of Odissi dance is based on the Guru Shishya Parampara and is deeply rooted in Hinduism.  The Guru not only spends time teaching dance, music, abhinaya but becomes a mentor and guide as you grow in dance and age.   Learning requires a continued connection with dance Guru's, mentors, scholars, and musicians.    Odissi requires dedication, devotion and determination.  It is simply not a mere form of entertainment but an art where literature, spirituality, culture, and tradition are woven  into intricate dance steps and acting.   

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