Odissi

Odissi is one of the eight classical dance forms of India.It originates from the state of Odisha, in eastern India. On th basis of archaeological evidences,it is the oldest surviving dance form of India. It was suppressed under the BRITISH RAJ, but has been reconstructed since India gained independence. It is particularly distinguished from other classical indian dance forms by the importance it places upon the Tribhangi(literally: three parts break), the independent movement of head, chest and pelvis and upon the basic square stance known as Chauka that symbolises Lord Jagannath. This dance is characterised by various Bhangas (Stance), which involves stamping of the foot and striking various postures as seen in Indian sculptures.

It is particularly distinguished from other classical indian dance forms by the importance it places upon the Tribhangi(literally: three parts break), the independent movement of head, chest and pelvis and upon the basic square stance known as Chauka or Chouka that symbolises Lord Jagannath.

This danceis characterised by various Bhangas (Stance), which involves stamping of the foot and striking various postures as seen in Indian sculptures.

Costumes and Makeup :

The costumes in Odissi dance are elaborate. The beautiful Pallu in Odissi dance is called the Thallaippu. This pleat is made in the front that makes the costume very rich and colourful.

The women Odissi dancers wear the patta sari, a brightly coloured silk sari which is nine yards long and a black or red blouse called the kanchula, which is embellished with diverse stones and gold and silver thread. An apron-like silk cloth, known as the `nibibhanda,` is tied from the waist like a frill worn around the legs. The waistband, called the jhobha, is a length of cord with tasseled ends. Komchila` is the richly embroidered blouse. The decorative headpiece of the dancer is made from styrofoam, which is shaped like flowers. The headpiece also contains a temple-shaped projecting structure.

Songs, Music and Instrument :

Indian Classical music has five significant branches: Avanti, Panchali, Odramagadhi, Hindustani and Carnatic. Of these, Odramagadhi exists in the form of Odissi music. Generally, Odissi is one of the classical dances of India performed with Odissi music.
A good Odissi music composition must have following characteristics:
1.Varitation of beat and pause.
2.Use of "gamak" or "Andolan".
3."Matu" meaning lucid presentation of composition.
4.Efficient and pleasing expansion of the "Raaga" and "Geeta".
5.Lucid and Melodious rendering of "Taan".
6.Singing of special words and notes with novelty.
7.Avoiding repeatition of same notes or compositions.
8.Every sentence rendered with its unique quality, beautification and melody.

History :

The first clear picture of Odissi dance is found in the Manchapuri cave in Udayagiri which was carved during the time of emperor Kharavela. Flanked by two queens, emperor Kharavela was watching a dance recital where a damsel was performing a dance in front of the court along with the company of female instrumentalists. Thus, Odissi can be traced back to its origin as secular dance.During the Mughal rule of India, the duties of the Maharis (the temple dancers) shifted, as they were employed to entertain the royal family and courtiers in the royal courts.

They became associated with concubinage in respect to the king and ceased to be respected solely as servants to Lord Jagannath. A decline and degradation occurred in all the Indian Classical dance styles during the British period, especially when a bill was passed prohibiting temple dancing. During this period even the royalty were expected to be accomplished in dance. However, the scenario changed after the 17th century. The dancing girls were thought of as prostitutes and from this misfortune the social position of dancers began to decline. During the colonial period the position of Odissi dance suffered again due to the critical and conservative attitude of the British.