Famous Dance Forms of Odisha
Odisha has a rich cultural heritage of classical and folk dance forms that have evolved over centuries. Here’s a comprehensive overview of the major dance traditions from this eastern Indian state:
Table of Contents
Classical Dance Forms
Odissi
- Origin: One of India’s oldest classical dance forms, dating back to 2nd century BCE
- Features:
- Characterized by tribhangi posture (three bends in the body)
- Distinctive torso movements with square hips and upper body in opposition
- Mudras (hand gestures) and facial expressions (abhinaya)
- Graceful, lyrical movements with fluid transitions
- Music: Accompanied by Odissi music with instruments like mardala (percussion), violin, flute, and sitar
- Themes: Primarily based on Hindu mythology, especially Vaishnavism and stories of Lord Jagannath
- Notable Exponents: Kelucharan Mohapatra, Sanjukta Panigrahi, Sonal Mansingh, Kumkum Mohanty
Folk and Tribal Dance Forms Of Odisha
Ghumura
- Origin: Traditional martial folk dance from western Odisha (Kalahandi)
- Features:
- Performed exclusively by men wearing tribal costumes
- Dancers wear the distinctive ghumura drum on their shoulders
- Combines drumming, singing and dancing simultaneously
- Significance: Listed in UNESCO’s tentative list of Intangible Cultural Heritage
Chhau
- Origin: Martial dance form from Mayurbhanj district
- Features:
- Performed without masks (unlike other Chhau styles from neighboring states)
- Vigorous movements inspired by hunting, fighting and martial arts
- Acrobatic leaps and jumps with dramatic expressions
- Themes: Episodes from epics, nature, and daily life
Gotipua
- Origin: Precursor to Odissi, traditionally performed by young boys dressed as girls
- Features:
- Acrobatic movements and back-bending poses (bandha)
- Performed in groups by boys under 14 years old
- Elaborate costumes with traditional jewelry
- Significance: Historically performed in temples, especially the Jagannath Temple in Puri
Sambalpuri
- Origin: Western Odisha (Sambalpur region)
- Features:
- Fast-paced movements with rhythmic clapping
- Performed during harvest seasons and festivals
- Dancers wear traditional handloom Sambalpuri sarees/dhotis
- Music: Accompanied by dhol, mahuri, and tasa
Dalkhai
- Origin: Tribal dance from western Odisha
- Features:
- Performed by young women during Dussehra and other festivals
- Women form a circle and dance with coordinated movements
- Music: Named after the signature “Dalkhai” song that accompanies the dance
Ranapa
- Origin: Ancient dance form where performers dance on stilts
- Features:
- Dancers wear wooden stilts (15-20 feet high) tied to their legs
- Decorated with colorful costumes
- Demonstrates exceptional balance and coordination
- Performance: Usually seen during folk festivals and Jagannath Rath Yatra
Jhumar
- Origin: Tribal dance of northern Odisha
- Features:
- Rhythmic footwork with swaying movements
- Performed during harvest and seasonal festivals
- Men and women dance in separate groups that later converge
Paika
- Origin: Ancient martial dance performed by warriors (Paikas)
- Features:
- Demonstrates combat techniques and sword fighting
- Performers use swords, shields, and sometimes fire
- Vigorous movements with battle cries
- Significance: Represents the martial tradition of Odisha’s historical Paika rebellion
Each of these dance forms represents different aspects of Odisha’s cultural heritage, from devotional expressions to tribal celebrations and martial traditions. They collectively showcase the state’s artistic diversity and rich cultural tapestry.
