Odissi Classical Dance: A Comprehensive Overview

Odissi, one of the oldest and most elegant classical dance forms of India, originates from the state of Odisha. Known for its grace, fluidity, and intricate postures, Odissi is deeply rooted in spirituality and tradition, making it a profound expression of devotion and storytelling. This dance form is characterized by its lyrical movements, intricate footwork, and expressive gestures, blending the aesthetic with the spiritual.

 

Historical Background

Odissi traces its origins back over 2,000 years, making it one of the oldest surviving dance traditions in India. Its genesis is linked to the temples of Odisha, where it was performed as a form of ritualistic worship to deities, particularly Lord Jagannath.

1. Temple Tradition:
• Initially performed by female temple dancers known as Maharis, Odissi was an offering to the deities, blending devotion (Bhakti) with art.
• The carvings on the walls of Odisha’s ancient temples, such as the Sun Temple at Konark and the Jagannath Temple at Puri, depict dancers in Odissi poses, showcasing its deep connection to religious practices.
2. Post-Vedic Period:
• Odissi flourished under the patronage of rulers during the post-Vedic period.
• The dance form was deeply influenced by the Natya Shastra, the ancient Sanskrit text on performing arts by Bharat Muni.
3. Colonial Suppression and Revival:
• During British colonial rule, Odissi and other classical dance forms faced suppression, being labeled as non-essential and inappropriate.
• The dance saw a revival in the 20th century through the efforts of artists, scholars, and dance enthusiasts like Kelucharan Mohapatra, Pankaj Charan Das, and Raghunath Dutta, who re-established it as a classical art form.

 

Philosophy and Spiritual Significance

Odissi is intrinsically tied to Bhakti Yoga, focusing on devotion to God as its central theme. The dance serves as a medium to express love, surrender, and connection with the divine. Mythological tales from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Puranas are central to Odissi performances, allowing dancers to communicate profound spiritual and moral messages.

 

Key Features of Odissi

1. Graceful Movements:
• Odissi is renowned for its fluid, curvilinear movements, reflecting the sculpturesque poses found in Odisha’s temples.
• The dance seamlessly blends static and dynamic movements, creating a captivating visual rhythm.
2. Body Postures:
• Odissi relies heavily on three primary body postures:
• Sthirachari (firm stance).
• Chauka (square-like posture symbolizing Lord Jagannath).
• Tribhangi (a triple-bend position emphasizing curves at the neck, torso, and knees).
3. Mudras (Hand Gestures):
• Hand gestures, or mudras, play a vital role in storytelling and emotive expression.
• These gestures are derived from the Natya Shastra and are used to narrate myths and legends.
4. Abhinaya (Expression):
• Abhinaya forms the soul of Odissi, allowing dancers to convey a spectrum of emotions (rasas).
• Facial expressions and eye movements are meticulously choreographed to match the storyline and rhythm.
5. Music and Instruments:
• Odissi performances are accompanied by Odissi music, a genre distinct from Hindustani and Carnatic styles.
• Instruments like the mardala (a percussion instrument), flute, violin, and sitar enhance the melodic and rhythmic aspects.
• Lyrics are often derived from the works of Odia poets like Jayadeva, whose Gita Govinda is a cornerstone of Odissi’s repertoire.
6. Costumes and Makeup:
• Dancers wear vibrant silk sarees with traditional motifs, tied in a unique drape to facilitate movement.
• Silver jewelry, including a distinctive headpiece (mukut), ornaments the dancer.
• The makeup highlights the eyes and enhances facial expressions, while the feet are adorned with alta (a red dye).

 

Themes in Odissi

1. Devotional:
• Many performances revolve around devotional themes, celebrating the love and devotion of Radha and Krishna or depicting stories from the Gita Govinda.
2. Mythological:
• Narratives from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and Puranas are dramatized, often emphasizing moral and spiritual teachings.
3. Sculptural Inspiration:
• Many Odissi poses are inspired by temple sculptures, blending visual art with performance art.

 

Performance Structure

An Odissi performance follows a structured sequence, blending pure dance (Nritta) with expressive dance (Nritya).

1. Mangalacharan:
• The opening piece involves an invocation to a deity, seeking blessings for the performance.
2. Batu Nritya:
• A pure dance segment showcasing intricate footwork and rhythmic patterns.
3. Pallavi:
• A lyrical dance that develops gradually, focusing on melody and rhythm.
4. Abhinaya:
• The dramatic segment where the dancer uses expressions to narrate a story.
5. Moksha:
• The concluding piece symbolizes liberation, where the dancer seeks to merge with the divine.

 

Odissi in Modern Times

Odissi has evolved over centuries, adapting to contemporary sensibilities while retaining its traditional essence.

1. Global Recognition:
• Odissi is now performed worldwide, gaining recognition for its grace and spirituality.
2. Inclusion of Male Dancers:
• While traditionally performed by women, male dancers have significantly contributed to Odissi’s growth and popularity.
3. Innovations:
• Modern practitioners experiment with contemporary themes and techniques, blending tradition with innovation.

 

Comparison with Other Classical Dances

Odissi’s lyrical and curvilinear style sets it apart from other classical dance forms. Unlike the rigid geometry of Bharatanatyam or the vigorous movements of Kathakali, Odissi emphasizes fluidity, grace, and sculptural beauty.

 

Challenges and Preservation

Despite its global popularity, Odissi faces challenges such as limited funding, lack of awareness, and diminishing interest among the younger generation. Efforts to preserve and promote Odissi include:

• Government initiatives and scholarships.
• Dedicated institutions like the Odissi Research Centre.
• Performances and workshops at national and international levels.

 

Conclusion

Odissi is not merely a dance form; it is a timeless tradition that encapsulates Odisha’s cultural, spiritual, and artistic heritage. With its intricate choreography, expressive storytelling, and profound spirituality, Odissi continues to captivate audiences worldwide. As it evolves with the times, the essence of Odissi—its devotion, grace, and storytelling—remains an eternal celebration of art and divinity.