Odissi, one of India’s renowned classical dances, has roots deeply embedded in the eastern state of Orissa. This dance form follows guidelines laid down in the Natya-shastra, an ancient Indian treatise on performing arts. The evolution of Odissi dance is intricately intertwined with the spiritual and cultural life of Orissa, finding a place not only in performance spaces but also influencing the artistic expressions carved into temple walls.
The Evolution of Odissi Dance
The genesis of Odissi can be traced back to religious practices in temples. In fact, historical remnants like the carvings at Udayagiri Monastery validate that Odissi dance received patronage as early as the 2nd Century BCE. This tradition persisted and thrived until the 16th Century AD. After enduring several tumultuous centuries, from the 16th century till India’s independence, Odissi experienced a revival that catapulted it onto the global stage. The nomenclature “Odissi” was bestowed upon this classical music and dance form by respected Odia poet Kabichandra Kalicharan Pattanayak. As a key figure in Odisha’s post-independence cultural rejuvenation, Pattanayak aimed to preserve the unique identity of this regional art form.
Techniques of Odissi Dance
The composite techniques used in Odissi dance involve movements of various body parts such as the head, bust, and torso, complemented by corresponding gestures and facial expressions. These movements revolve around two fundamental postures, the Chowk and the Tribhanga. The Chowk, a square-like, masculine posture, distributes body weight evenly. The Tribhanga, on the other hand, is a feminine stance involving deflections at the neck, torso, and knees. The predominant theme of Odissi dance revolves around the love story of Radha and Krishna, figures from ancient Indian mythology.
| Fact | Detail |
|---|---|
| Origin of Odissi Dance | 2nd Century BCE, Orissa (India) |
| Main Postures | Chowk and Tribhanga |
| Primary Theme | Radha-Krishna Love Stories |
| Revivalist | Kabichandra Kalicharan Pattanayak |
The Natyashastra: Guiding Manual for Odissi Dance
Natyashastra, alternatively known as Bharata Natyashastra, serves as a comprehensive guidebook on classical Indian drama, encompassing all facets including dance, music, poetics, and aesthetics. This authoritative text is attributed to the legendary sage and priest, Bharata (200 BC – 200 AD). Often referred to as the “fifth veda”, the Natyashastra has incorporated elements from other Vedas – words from Rigveda, melodies from Samaveda, gestures from Yajurveda, and emotions from Atharvaveda. Consequently, it provides the foundational framework that informs the practice and performance of Odissi dance today.