What is Odissi Dance?

Odissi is one of eight classical dance forms to originate from India and comes from the state of Orissa in Eastern India. It is thought to be one of the oldest surviving ritual dance forms in existence. Like the other classical dances of India, Odissi evolved as a spiritual expression of devotion to a higher being.

Guru Kelecharan Mahapatra

Kala's Artistic Director Sushmita Pati

The Odissi Style

One of the most predominant features of Odissi is its relation to many of the sculptures that can be found in temples around Orissa. Stylistically Odissi revolves around the Tribhanga as the central posture. The head, torso and lower body move in deflection, with each part moving in opposition to the one above, thus creating a figure with three bends to its shape. The Tribhanga combine with the Chakua, a square, half-seated pose and form the core posture of Odissi. A special feature of Odissi is the use of sideways movement in the isolated torso. Experienced Odissi dancers have the ability to create lyrical, flowing shapes when performing this movement. Brahmaris (pirouettes) are executed through the Chakua, where the dancer will maintain the lower level of this half-seated position, these constant changes in level are an essential part of the Odissi style.
The Lasya are the sensuous movements of the style and it is this element that makes the dance form quite distinct from other classical Indian styles.