Bagchee

Odissi: What, Why & How: Evolution, Revival & Technique

Odissi did exist as a distinctive style of dance about 2,000 years ago when Natyashastra, one of the ancient Indian treatises on dance and dramaturgy, was written.  Aesthetic sensuousness, flowing movements and rare lyrical grace within a classical framework have won for Odissi dance an ever increasing clientele during last three decades. Odissi-What, Why & How.. traces the origin and development of Odissi dance with a special emphasis on the renaissance years of odissi, the period which saw the efflorescence of Odissi as it came to be recognized as a prominent classical dance of India.  The book also throws light on the technical aspects of Odissi, based on Natyashastra, Abhinaya Darpana and Abhinaya Chandrika.  Detailed chapters have been devoted to Navarasas, various Moods of Nayika, feet positions and more.  A special section is dedicated to Aharya (adornments) and Vachika (Musical accompaniment of Odissi).  The book aims to  be a source of joy for Odissi dancers and connoisseurs alike.