Odissi

Lyrical, graceful and sacred, Odissi dance was originally performed by maharis (female temple dancers) in the Jagannath temple in Puri as a form of prayer.

Over time, when the temple system came under threat, the dance form was transplanted to the villages and performed by young boys called Gotipua.

The present day presentation of Odissi has its roots in both temple and village ritual. The current incarnation of Odissi dance owes its revival to the efforts and artistic/creative talent of several Gurus. Guru Deb Prasad Das, Guru Pankaj Charan Das, Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra, through their vision and schools, have molded numerous Odissi dancers.

Currently there are accomplished dancers teaching and performing Odissi through out the world.