Odissi is the traditional dance of the state of Orissa. Originally, this form of dance
was performed in the temples as a religious offering, by the Devadasis. Odissi is a dance of divine, human, love and passion. The performance is soft and lyrical depicting the ambience of Orissa and the philosophy of the popular Hindu God, Lord Krishna. Most of the poses of this form of dance are inspired by the temple carvings of Orissa. The dresses worn by the dancers are similar to the sculptures. The dancers wear colorful costumes and traditional silver jewellery. Elaborate ornaments are worn specially on the hips.
Odissi is based on the popular devotion to Lord Krishna and the verses of the Sanskrit play Geet Govindam are used to depict the love and devotion to God. Odissi presents a synthesis of Lasya and Tandava aspects of the Indian Classical Dance. Odissi dance performance involves a balance between pure dance, expressional dance and a combination of acting and dance.
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