Odissi (ଓଡ଼ିଶୀ) also referred to as Orissi in old literature, oldest surviving classical dance of India, is a major ancient Indian classical dance that originated in the temples of Odisha – an eastern coastal state of India.

Odissi or Orissi is one of the pre-eminent classical dance forms of India which originated in the Hindu temples of the eastern coastal state of Odisha in India. Its theoretical base trace back to ‘Natya Shastra’, the ancient Sanskrit Hindu text on the performing arts.

Feb 26, 2025 · Odissi, one of the principal classical dance styles of India; others include bharata natyam, kuchipudi, kathak, kathakali, and manipuri. It is indigenous to Orissa, eastern India, and follows the principles of the Natya-shastra.

Odissi is believed to be one of the oldest surviving classical dance forms in the country, originating its roots dating back to the temples of Odisha in the 2nd century BCE. As with all other classical dance forms of India, Odissi was also performed as a part of temple worship.

Odissi is a dance form from the state of Odisha in eastern India. It is recognised as one of the eight classical dance forms of India, and celebrated around the world for its lyricism, sensuality and emphasis on bhakti bhava (attitude of devotion and surrender).

Odissi, often spelled Orissi, is a traditional Indian dance form that evolved in the Hindu temples of Odisha’s eastern coast. Moreover, the ancient Sanskrit Hindu text ‘ Natya Shastra,’ which deals with the performing arts, has its theoretical foundations.

Dec 8, 2024 · 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.

Explore the enchanting world of Odissi Dance in India, from its origin and history to its captivating costumes, style, technique, and music.

Odissi is known for combining the sensual with the divine, in a very relatable and spiritual manner. Odissi is noted for portraying the fables of Vishnu’s eighth incarnation, Lord Krishna, and takes most of its themes from Jayadeva’s ‘Geeta Govinda.’. It is a soft, lyrical classical dance.

Feb 3, 2023 · Odissi or Orissi is an Indian classical dance that evolved in the Hindu temples of Odisha, India’s eastern coastal state. Initially known as ‘Odra-Nritya,’ it is a dance form that is not only popular in India but is also well-known throughout the world. It is a good illustration of remarkable motions, expressions and gestures of the body.