Odissi

Odissi

1. Facts

   • Originates from Odishi, Eastern India
   • Oldest surviving dance form despite coming near to extinction a few times
   • Three traditions
     • Mahari - temple dancers
     • Gotipua - boys who performed female roles in religious festivals
     • Nartaki – school of Odissi dance which was developed in the royal courts

2. Characteristics

   • Chowka/ square - legs are wide apart and knees are fully turned out
   • Tribhanga - body bends in three positions (neck, waist and hip)
   • Torso is very flexible with subtle side movements

3. Themes

   • Revolves around Krishna

4. Music Accompaniment

   • Relates to North Indian Music
   • Makes use of madal, bamboo flute, metal cymbals, sitar and tanpura