Odissi, one of the classical dances of Orissa, is said to have originated in the temples of Orissa. The temples of Puri is said to have a separate enclosure, known as Nata Mandira, for the development of the dance forms. Odissi is a classical dance that is based on the day-to-day activities of the people of Orissa. The theme of the Odissi dance of Puri is the infinite love between Lord Krishna and Radha. One can get a taste of the Odissi dance at the Konark Beach Festival.
The Odissi dance of Orissa incorporates Nrutya and Natya. Some of the distinct features of its repertoire are:
- Stheyee Nrutya
- Moksa Nrutya
- Pallavi
- Mangacharana
- Abhinaya
In Orissa, one can come across two types of Maharis, such as Bahara Gani Maharis and Bhitara Gani Mahari. The Bahara Gani Mahari used to perform in the Natyamandapa of the Jagannath temple; whereas the Bhitara Gani Mahari has the permission to enter the innermost parts of the temple.
Furthermore, the dances of Puri consist of a number of folk dances. Some of the folk dances of Orissa are:
- Gotipua dance
- Ghoda nacha
- Daskathia Bhalunach
- Naga and Medha dance
- Navrang
- Pala
- Dhudki
Last Updated on : 22/06/2013