Odissi

Odissi, one of the nine recognized classical dance styles of India; the others include bharatanatyam, kuchipudi, kathak, kathakali, Manipuri, mohiniyattam, sattriya, and chhau. It is indigenous to Odisha (formerly Orissa), eastern India, and follows the principles of the Natyashastra (“Treatise on Acting, Representing”). Its close replication of poses found on classical temple sculptures suggests great antiquity. Related to bharatanatyam in its basic pattern, odissi emphasizes sinuous postures and is enlivened by a variety of elevations and jumps. It is predominantly a dance for women.