If you are looking for Odissi dance classes in India, the first thing you should know is that it is by far one of the most famous and common forms of traditional Indian dance. It has been around since the 7th century and is widely popular all over India and outside. In fact, this dance form is so popular that it almost goes without saying that it is the state dance of Orissa. Odishi, or Orissa, is known as Oodisai in old historical literature. It is a major civilizational art form that originated from the Hindu temples in Orissa, to the southern states of Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
The origin of Odissi dancing is shrouded in mystery, but most scholars believe it to be an offshoot of the several ritual performed by the Tamil Nadu rulers to celebrate the conclusion of their rule over the Tamil Nadu state with ritualistic sacrifices. While the exact nature, content and sequence of these ritualistic dances have long been a subject of speculation, several rituals and customs have been identified as integral to the origin of odissi dance. It is believed that during these ceremonies, local fishermen would use hollow bones as flutes and other drums.
Today, Odissi dance is still enjoyed by people of all ages in India and abroad. You will also find it is sometimes referred to as the ‘national Indian classical dance’ and is often showcased at various events such as the International Dance Festival held annually in Bhatupallam, India, during the month of March. There, expert Odissi dancers from all over India and abroad perform their unique style of dance. This highly popular celebration of Indian traditional dance is also known as the Songkran festival, which has its origins in Southern India and Tamil Nadu, the region most associated with Odissi traditions.