Odissi is one of the eight classical dance forms of India. It is the oldest surviving dance form of India on the basis of archaeological evidences.
Saturday 20 October 2012
Friday 7 September 2012
Mahavishub Sankranti - Fesival of Odisha
Mahavishub Sankranti also called Pana Sankranti observed by odia people Significance New Year as per the traditional Sidereal astrology of Hindu Solar Calendar in the date of Vaishakha month(Odiya calendar) celebrated as meru yatra. The day marks the beginning of the New Year in the traditional .
On this day the sun enters the sidereal Aries or Mesha Rashi.
Vishuva Sankranti is considered as the first day of the solar year for specific reasons .The Sun fully rests on the equator on only two occasions around year, Mesha Sankramana and Tula Sankramana. The oriya solar month of Mesha starts from this day. people of Odisha calculate the month from the next day of Purnima to Purnima, as per the North Indian Purnimanta system, the yearly cycle of the moon is less than 365 days of earth's rotation, and some years also contain Adhika Maasa. Therefore, the new year is calculated from the day of Mesha Sankramana to fix a particular day.
Maha Vishuva Sankranti is observed similar to the New Year festivals in India such as Baisakhi (Punjab), Bihu (Assam),Jude-Sheetal (Mithila), Naba Barsha (Bengal), Bisu Parba (Tulu Nadu region in Karnataka), Vishu (Kerala), and Puthandu (Tamil Nadu).
Main festival of Vishuva Sankranti deities are Worshiped Maa kali through Danda Nacha
On this particular day, a small pot filled with pana or a sweet drink mixture of Mishri and water is hung on a basil (Tulsi) plant. There is a hole at the bottom of this pot which allows the water to fall from the pot, representing rain. The flour of horse gram chhatua, along with banana curd, is consumed by the people of odisha after offering it to the Tulsi plant. Special offerings are made to Shalagram, Shivalinga, Hanuman, and other deities.
The devi temples of Cuttack Chandi, Biraja, Samaleswari temple and Sarala become crowded, which is called Jhaamu Yatra. In Northern Orissa it is called Chadak Parva. In Southern Orissa the day is celebrated as the end of month-long Danda nata, and the final ceremony is known as Meru Yatra. People all over the state worship Hanuman on this day and celebrate it as his birthday. People enjoy chhatua and Bel Pana with great pleasure.
On this day the sun enters the sidereal Aries or Mesha Rashi.
Vishuva Sankranti is considered as the first day of the solar year for specific reasons .The Sun fully rests on the equator on only two occasions around year, Mesha Sankramana and Tula Sankramana. The oriya solar month of Mesha starts from this day. people of Odisha calculate the month from the next day of Purnima to Purnima, as per the North Indian Purnimanta system, the yearly cycle of the moon is less than 365 days of earth's rotation, and some years also contain Adhika Maasa. Therefore, the new year is calculated from the day of Mesha Sankramana to fix a particular day.
Maha Vishuva Sankranti is observed similar to the New Year festivals in India such as Baisakhi (Punjab), Bihu (Assam),Jude-Sheetal (Mithila), Naba Barsha (Bengal), Bisu Parba (Tulu Nadu region in Karnataka), Vishu (Kerala), and Puthandu (Tamil Nadu).
Main festival of Vishuva Sankranti deities are Worshiped Maa kali through Danda Nacha
On this particular day, a small pot filled with pana or a sweet drink mixture of Mishri and water is hung on a basil (Tulsi) plant. There is a hole at the bottom of this pot which allows the water to fall from the pot, representing rain. The flour of horse gram chhatua, along with banana curd, is consumed by the people of odisha after offering it to the Tulsi plant. Special offerings are made to Shalagram, Shivalinga, Hanuman, and other deities.
The devi temples of Cuttack Chandi, Biraja, Samaleswari temple and Sarala become crowded, which is called Jhaamu Yatra. In Northern Orissa it is called Chadak Parva. In Southern Orissa the day is celebrated as the end of month-long Danda nata, and the final ceremony is known as Meru Yatra. People all over the state worship Hanuman on this day and celebrate it as his birthday. People enjoy chhatua and Bel Pana with great pleasure.
Thursday 6 September 2012
TaraTarini Mela - Festivals of Odisha
On Tuesday the temple remains open for the Darshan of the deities from 1.00 AM (mid-night on Monday) till 11 PM (of Tuesday). During that period Pahada of the deities is confined to night-time only.
Thousands of devotees come from every corner of the district as well as out side the State in order to have darshan of Goddess TaraTarini , congregate at the up-hill and downhill temple complex from Monday night.
A grand congregation takes place on the 2nd & 3rd Tuesday of the month is considered to be most auspicious days.
Devotees are offered puja to the Chalanti Pratima of deities placed at the Bije Pitha for the Bije Pratima. However Darshan of the deities in Garbha Griha (Sanctum of the main temple) is allowed.
Hair offering are made in Special arrangement for. 250 barbers at the hill top and more than 500 barbers at the down hill (Foot Hill) at the barber shed are engaged to help their hair offering of their children and other devotees. Hair offering continues from mid-night on Monday till 6 PM of Tuesday and serve a sweet food item called amutmani bhoga( mixture of curd, milk, ghee, honey, sugar and also dry friuts and fruits) which is very taste offered to goddess Maa TaraTarini.. It is the main specialty of this mela. After offering hair devotees are celebrated through feast.
Special Khechidi Bhoga (Fried Rice) is supplied to the devotees and also other sweet items.
The legendary information on Tara Tarini has been given in the chapter tourist spot for reference of the visitors.
Friday 8 June 2012
Monday 30 April 2012
Friday 27 April 2012
Wednesday 18 January 2012
Odisha Architecture
Though ancient time, this Eastern tradition has also incorporated
modern values as India, Odisha became a modern nation state.
Traditional Vastu Shastra remains influential in Odisha's architecture
during the contemporary era. Wooden architecture and rock cut
architecture became popular solidified . The temples consists
essentially of a chambered sanctuary topped by a superstructure, tower,
or spire and an attached pillared porch or hall enclosed by a peristyle
of cells within a rectangular court.
Architecture in paintings, art, handicraft of Odisha are very exquisite pieces of art as they represent architecture that dates back to the 1st century BC. The caves were decorated with beautiful sculptural motifs which is a big part of India’s historical art. These architecture clip art pieces present a very clear and picturesque view of the contemporary society . Odisha architecture art artisans and artists are very talented and possess excellent skills. All kinds of architecture arts both modern and medieval like paintings, wood carvings, sculptures, etc.
The Odisha temples have their own distinct style which gradually evolved into a more elaborate plan, highly decorative plastic figures and taller sikharas. They are characterised by exquisite, ornamentally carved Gods and Goddesses, kings and queens, animals and flower motifs. Orissa is probably the only State where one can study temple architecture in all its successive stages of development.
Mukteswara Temple
Mukteswar is one of the major gem architecture temple of Odisha ,bhubaneswar. It is unique monument constructed
in the year 950 AD of 10th century , made for meditation & temple's name Mukteswara
devoted to Lord Shiva, who gives freedom and is carved with figures of ascetics in several poses depict stories from the Panchatantra written by Vishnu Sharma.
The Gateway to this temple excellent combinations of Hindu and Buddhist and Jain features, which find a common voice in much of Odisha temple craft., modeled on the torana recovered from the field in Bhubaneswar, bears sculptures that range from elaborate scrolls. The sculptured gateway, the jagamohana with diamond shaped latticed windows and decorated interiors and the plethora of sculptural work all deserve mention rising to a height of 35 feet. This temple has also been described as a dream realized in sandstone and it is a monument where it is said sculpture and architecture are in complete harmony with one another. Richly sculpted, the temple offers pride of place to tales from the Panchatantra. The sophisticated architectural style holds a magnetic appeal that lies in its indigenous glory.
Rajarani Temple
Rajarani
temple is one of the architectural splendors of Odisha ,Bhubaneswar in
11th century in the district of Khurda located towards north-east of
Lingaraj temple. Earlier Raja Rani temple was known as Indreshwara
Temple, which was dedicated to Lord Shiva. The entire structure exudes
grace and elegance set in open paddy fields . It is famous for its
sculpted figures and the successive tiers of projections rising to form
its 18 m tower and also the tall and slender nayikas (temple figures)
carved in high relief on the walls-figures in amorous dalliance and in
such acts as fondling her child, looking into the mirror, taking off her
anklet, caressing the bird, playing instrument, holding branches of
trees etc.
It has a square sanctuary and its interior and exterior surfaces are so recessed that it appears circular. The ornamental deul stands diagonal to the severely plain jagamohana. They are standing from the entrance in a clockwise order surrounding the porch and the deul to end back at the torana. The eight guardians carved around the shrine are Indra-God of rain, Agni-God of fire, Yama-God of death, Nirriti-God of suffering, Varuna-God of ocean, Vayu-God of wind, Kubera-God of wealth and Ishana (Shiva.) , dressed in diaphanous drapery they stand on lotuses, with their mounts below.
Bhairavi temple
Berhampur
is famous for a temple dedicated to Maa Bhairavi. It has become an
important Sakti Pitha Venerable for the fisherman community that lives
in nearby villages Mantridi. Tourists from almost all parts Odisha
Andhra Pradesh visit this holy shrine every day. The idols of several
goddesses and gods are enshrined in the temple premises. The important
dates with the deity are the Sankranties of the Hindu calendar, and all
Tuesdays.
Nearest major Railway Station is Berhampur- 18 kms 4 Km.
Nearest airport is Bhubaneswar (190 km) and Visakhapatnam (260 km)
Lingaraja Temple
Lingaraja Temple is built by Jajati Keshari in 11th century in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The significance is self-originated Lingam. One can easily reach Lingaraj Temple by taking local buses or by hiring Taxis from the city of Bhubaneshwar.
The term 'Lingaraj' suggests 'the king of Lingas', where 'linga' is the phallic form of Lord Shiva .
The remarkable structure of the temple gives the tint of Kalinga style of architecture. The aesthetic sculptures look at their apex in this architectural exhibition. Erected in red sandstone, Lingraj Temple has the stone of the darkest shade. The huge temple complex covers the vast lands of Bhubaneshwar in a stretch. The tall spire of the temple extends to the height of 55 meters and literally, dominates the skyline of Bhubaneshwar. The spacious courtyard comprises 50 small shrines that are dedicated to several Gods of the Hindu pantheon.
The temple is the biggest and finest temple of Odisha.
Jagara or Shiva Ratri or the night of Shiva is a festival held in honour of the God.
It is a Hindu temple dedicated to Harihara, another name for Shiva and
a revered pilgrimage center and the capital of the state of Odisha.
The temple is more than 1000 years old, dating back
in its present form
to the last decade of the eleventh century, though there is evidence
that parts of the temple have been there since sixth century AD as the
temple has been emphasized in some of the seventh century Sanskrit
texts. This is testimony to its sanctity and importance as a Shiva
shrine. By the time the Lingaraj temple was constructed, the Jagannath
(form of Vishnu) cult had been growing, which historians believe is
evidenced by the co-existence of Vishnu and Shiva worship at the
temple.The Lingaraj temple stands majestically as the largest temple in
Bhubaneswar. At 55 metres high, it dominates the landscape with 150
smaller shrines in its spacious courtyard and is surrounded by massive
walls lavishly decorated with beautiful sculptures.
This magnificent temple, dedicated to Shiva, represents the quintessence of the Kalinga type of Hindu architecture. Along with the Raja-Rani Temple, it is the pinnacle of the architectural exhibition at Bhubaneswar. It contains a profusion of sculptural work. It is built of red sandstone which gives it a darkest color.
Konark Sun Temple
Konark is located on the Bay of Bengal, 60 kms from Bhubaneswar and 35 kms from Puri. Itis a small town in the District of Puri and one of the points of the Golden Triangle of Odisha. Konark is world famous for its unique stone carved sun temple which is dedicated to Lord Surya(sun) which is heavily decorated with stone carving and chandrabhaga with sunrise and it is also known as the Black Pagoda. Every year Thousands of people visit to this destination. It was constructed by King Narasimhadeva I (1238-1250 CE) of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty from oxidized and weathered ferruginous sandstone. The name Konark is derived from the Sanskrit word Kona (meaning corner) and word Arka means (sun). The entire complex temple was designed in the form of the God's huge chariot drawn by seven spirited horses on twelve pairs of exquisitely decorated wheels at its base.
The temple is guarded by two giant lions, which are shown crushing a war elephant. Each elephant in turn lies on top of a human body. The temple symbolizes the majestic stride of the Sun God. At the entrance of the temple is a Nata Mandir. The dancers perform their dances in homage to the Sun God. Here the stone surpasses the language of man."
Dhauli Hill
Dhauli
Hill (Dhaulagiri) is situated near Daya River, 8 km south of
Bhubaneswar in Odisha India. Dhauli hill holds the distinction of being
the place where Ashoka, the Mauryan Emperor renounced war and embraced
Buddhism. The peace pagoda (Shanti Stupa) remains at the top of the
tourist choices for the delicate structure of the stupa and the
monastery near it. The Saddharma Vihar monastery and the Shanti Stupa
make the Buddhist pilgrim a special attraction, and a place to feel
eternal peace of mind.
The main of the artifacts, ancient and archaeologically invaluable is the Ashokan edicts. These are specific due to the inscriptions, written on rock, some of them by Ashoka himself, and are rare pieces of art. The Dhauli edicts are written in the Prakrit language using the Brahmi script. The other major attractions of Dhauli Hill include Saddharma Vihar monastery, the ancient sculptures and the some very extraordinary art forms. The nearest airport and railway station is that of Bhubaneshwar. Dhauli can be reached by Bus, or rented Taxi.
Jagannath Temple Puri
The grandeur of architecture and the crafts is the main top of the high sculptures cultural speak about the history of Puri District. Puri is also known as Jagannath Dham or Purusottam khetra or Bada Deula and popularly for the adobe of Lord Jagannath and famous for annual Rath Yatra or the Car Festival, chandan yatra, many more fair and fesival, handicraft ( sand art), beautiful beaches, Chilka Lake and Simlipal National Park, Govardhana matha , Sringeri, Dwaraka,Jyotirmath, Adi Shankaracharya, Historic antiquities ,Religious sanctuaries , Architectural Grandeur , Sea-scape beauty, moderate climate etc.
It is situated Just 62 km from Bhubaneswar. Puri is the holy city of the hindus as a part of the char dham pilgrimages. According to Hindu parmpara, without a journey to Puri Jagnnath temple a pilgrimage is not considered to complete. one of the best beaches where both sunrise and sunset can be viewed. In the festival of Rath Yatra in Puri the three deities Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra appear in the huge chariots in modern times in the temple background.
The District is happy for different religions, sects and faith in course of history, Hindu, Buddhist, Jaina, Muslim, Christian, Sikh found here. Cultural program is organized on every second saturday of the month two hours, in the evening at the collector's conference Hall C (Near Sea bech Police Station) Puri by District Council of culture. Apera is the very popular mobile drama troupe in the puri. Museum is popular for different veshas of Lord Jagannath, Sculptures of various Kinds, Patta paintings palm leaf paintings, numerous varieties of Handicrafts . Bada Thakura(Lord Jagannath), Bada Danda(Grand Road), Bada Deula(Jagannath temple), Bada Raja(King of puri), Maha Prasada(cooked food from the temple), Maha Dipa(oil candel), Bad Danda(Big road) etc. are notable persons and things in Puri.
Architecture in paintings, art, handicraft of Odisha are very exquisite pieces of art as they represent architecture that dates back to the 1st century BC. The caves were decorated with beautiful sculptural motifs which is a big part of India’s historical art. These architecture clip art pieces present a very clear and picturesque view of the contemporary society . Odisha architecture art artisans and artists are very talented and possess excellent skills. All kinds of architecture arts both modern and medieval like paintings, wood carvings, sculptures, etc.
The Odisha temples have their own distinct style which gradually evolved into a more elaborate plan, highly decorative plastic figures and taller sikharas. They are characterised by exquisite, ornamentally carved Gods and Goddesses, kings and queens, animals and flower motifs. Orissa is probably the only State where one can study temple architecture in all its successive stages of development.
Mukteswara Temple
Mukteswar is one of the major gem architecture temple of Odisha ,bhubaneswar. It is unique monument constructed
in the year 950 AD of 10th century , made for meditation & temple's name Mukteswara
devoted to Lord Shiva, who gives freedom and is carved with figures of ascetics in several poses depict stories from the Panchatantra written by Vishnu Sharma. The Gateway to this temple excellent combinations of Hindu and Buddhist and Jain features, which find a common voice in much of Odisha temple craft., modeled on the torana recovered from the field in Bhubaneswar, bears sculptures that range from elaborate scrolls. The sculptured gateway, the jagamohana with diamond shaped latticed windows and decorated interiors and the plethora of sculptural work all deserve mention rising to a height of 35 feet. This temple has also been described as a dream realized in sandstone and it is a monument where it is said sculpture and architecture are in complete harmony with one another. Richly sculpted, the temple offers pride of place to tales from the Panchatantra. The sophisticated architectural style holds a magnetic appeal that lies in its indigenous glory.
Rajarani Temple
It has a square sanctuary and its interior and exterior surfaces are so recessed that it appears circular. The ornamental deul stands diagonal to the severely plain jagamohana. They are standing from the entrance in a clockwise order surrounding the porch and the deul to end back at the torana. The eight guardians carved around the shrine are Indra-God of rain, Agni-God of fire, Yama-God of death, Nirriti-God of suffering, Varuna-God of ocean, Vayu-God of wind, Kubera-God of wealth and Ishana (Shiva.) , dressed in diaphanous drapery they stand on lotuses, with their mounts below.
Bhairavi temple
Nearest major Railway Station is Berhampur- 18 kms 4 Km.
Nearest airport is Bhubaneswar (190 km) and Visakhapatnam (260 km)
Lingaraja Temple
Lingaraja Temple is built by Jajati Keshari in 11th century in Bhubaneswar, Odisha. The temple is dedicated to Lord Shiva. The significance is self-originated Lingam. One can easily reach Lingaraj Temple by taking local buses or by hiring Taxis from the city of Bhubaneshwar.
The term 'Lingaraj' suggests 'the king of Lingas', where 'linga' is the phallic form of Lord Shiva .
The remarkable structure of the temple gives the tint of Kalinga style of architecture. The aesthetic sculptures look at their apex in this architectural exhibition. Erected in red sandstone, Lingraj Temple has the stone of the darkest shade. The huge temple complex covers the vast lands of Bhubaneshwar in a stretch. The tall spire of the temple extends to the height of 55 meters and literally, dominates the skyline of Bhubaneshwar. The spacious courtyard comprises 50 small shrines that are dedicated to several Gods of the Hindu pantheon.
The temple is the biggest and finest temple of Odisha.
Jagara or Shiva Ratri or the night of Shiva is a festival held in honour of the God.
It is a Hindu temple dedicated to Harihara, another name for Shiva and
a revered pilgrimage center and the capital of the state of Odisha.
This magnificent temple, dedicated to Shiva, represents the quintessence of the Kalinga type of Hindu architecture. Along with the Raja-Rani Temple, it is the pinnacle of the architectural exhibition at Bhubaneswar. It contains a profusion of sculptural work. It is built of red sandstone which gives it a darkest color.
Konark Sun Temple
Konark is located on the Bay of Bengal, 60 kms from Bhubaneswar and 35 kms from Puri. Itis a small town in the District of Puri and one of the points of the Golden Triangle of Odisha. Konark is world famous for its unique stone carved sun temple which is dedicated to Lord Surya(sun) which is heavily decorated with stone carving and chandrabhaga with sunrise and it is also known as the Black Pagoda. Every year Thousands of people visit to this destination. It was constructed by King Narasimhadeva I (1238-1250 CE) of the Eastern Ganga Dynasty from oxidized and weathered ferruginous sandstone. The name Konark is derived from the Sanskrit word Kona (meaning corner) and word Arka means (sun). The entire complex temple was designed in the form of the God's huge chariot drawn by seven spirited horses on twelve pairs of exquisitely decorated wheels at its base.
The temple is guarded by two giant lions, which are shown crushing a war elephant. Each elephant in turn lies on top of a human body. The temple symbolizes the majestic stride of the Sun God. At the entrance of the temple is a Nata Mandir. The dancers perform their dances in homage to the Sun God. Here the stone surpasses the language of man."
Dhauli Hill
The main of the artifacts, ancient and archaeologically invaluable is the Ashokan edicts. These are specific due to the inscriptions, written on rock, some of them by Ashoka himself, and are rare pieces of art. The Dhauli edicts are written in the Prakrit language using the Brahmi script. The other major attractions of Dhauli Hill include Saddharma Vihar monastery, the ancient sculptures and the some very extraordinary art forms. The nearest airport and railway station is that of Bhubaneshwar. Dhauli can be reached by Bus, or rented Taxi.
Jagannath Temple Puri
The grandeur of architecture and the crafts is the main top of the high sculptures cultural speak about the history of Puri District. Puri is also known as Jagannath Dham or Purusottam khetra or Bada Deula and popularly for the adobe of Lord Jagannath and famous for annual Rath Yatra or the Car Festival, chandan yatra, many more fair and fesival, handicraft ( sand art), beautiful beaches, Chilka Lake and Simlipal National Park, Govardhana matha , Sringeri, Dwaraka,Jyotirmath, Adi Shankaracharya, Historic antiquities ,Religious sanctuaries , Architectural Grandeur , Sea-scape beauty, moderate climate etc.
It is situated Just 62 km from Bhubaneswar. Puri is the holy city of the hindus as a part of the char dham pilgrimages. According to Hindu parmpara, without a journey to Puri Jagnnath temple a pilgrimage is not considered to complete. one of the best beaches where both sunrise and sunset can be viewed. In the festival of Rath Yatra in Puri the three deities Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra appear in the huge chariots in modern times in the temple background.
The District is happy for different religions, sects and faith in course of history, Hindu, Buddhist, Jaina, Muslim, Christian, Sikh found here. Cultural program is organized on every second saturday of the month two hours, in the evening at the collector's conference Hall C (Near Sea bech Police Station) Puri by District Council of culture. Apera is the very popular mobile drama troupe in the puri. Museum is popular for different veshas of Lord Jagannath, Sculptures of various Kinds, Patta paintings palm leaf paintings, numerous varieties of Handicrafts . Bada Thakura(Lord Jagannath), Bada Danda(Grand Road), Bada Deula(Jagannath temple), Bada Raja(King of puri), Maha Prasada(cooked food from the temple), Maha Dipa(oil candel), Bad Danda(Big road) etc. are notable persons and things in Puri.
Khandagiri & Udayagiri Caves -Odisha
By Air : Just 3 km From Bhubaneshwar airport.425 Km from Vishakhapatnam .
By Rail : Bhubaneshwar railway station is located at the centre of the city. Delhi trains from Delhi to Bhubaneshwar include the Purshottam Exp. and Kaligautkal Exp. The journey from Delhi takes around 16 hours.
By Road : The Baramunda bus stand is located just 8 km from the city centre. State transport buses provide regular services to all the major cities across the state. Alternatively, taxis can also be hired from any of the major neighbouring cities to reach Bhubaneshwar. Once inside the city, taxis, auto-rickshaws and cycle-rickshaws are the available means of moving around.
October to March are the best time to visit this cave. Around this caves Bindu Sagar Lake, Lingaraja Temple, Nandankanan Zoo are the major attraction.
Jagannath temple Puri
Jagannath temple Puri
The grandeur of architecture and the crafts is the main top of the high sculptures cultural speak about the history of Puri District. Puri is also known as Jagannath Dham or Purusottam khetra or Bada Deula and popularly for the adobe of Lord Jagannath and famous for annual Rath Yatra or the Car Festival, chandan yatra, many more fair and fesival, handicraft ( sand art), beautiful beaches, Chilka Lake and Simlipal National Park, Govardhana matha , Sringeri, Dwaraka,Jyotirmath, Adi Shankaracharya, Historic antiquities ,Religious sanctuaries , Architectural Grandeur , Sea-scape beauty, moderate climate etc.
It
is situated Just 62 km from Bhubaneswar. Puri is the holy city of
the hindus as a part of the char dham pilgrimages. According to Hindu
parmpara, without a journey to Puri Jagnnath temple a pilgrimage is
not considered to complete. one of the best beaches where both sunrise
and sunset can be viewed. In the festival of Rath Yatra in Puri the
three deities Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra appear in the huge
chariots in modern times in the temple background.
The District is happy for different religions, sects and faith in course of history, Hindu, Buddhist, Jaina, Muslim, Christian, Sikh found here. Cultural program is organized on every second saturday of the month two hours, in the evening at the collector's conference Hall C (Near Sea bech Police Station) Puri by District Council of culture. Apera is the very popular mobile drama troupe in the puri. Museum is popular for different veshas of Lord Jagannath, Sculptures of various Kinds, Patta paintings palm leaf paintings, numerous varieties of Handicrafts . Bada Thakura(Lord Jagannath), Bada Danda(Grand Road), Bada Deula(Jagannath temple), Bada Raja(King of puri), Maha Prasada(cooked food from the temple), Maha Dipa(oil candel), Bad Danda(Big road) etc. are notable persons and things in Puri.
The grandeur of architecture and the crafts is the main top of the high sculptures cultural speak about the history of Puri District. Puri is also known as Jagannath Dham or Purusottam khetra or Bada Deula and popularly for the adobe of Lord Jagannath and famous for annual Rath Yatra or the Car Festival, chandan yatra, many more fair and fesival, handicraft ( sand art), beautiful beaches, Chilka Lake and Simlipal National Park, Govardhana matha , Sringeri, Dwaraka,Jyotirmath, Adi Shankaracharya, Historic antiquities ,Religious sanctuaries , Architectural Grandeur , Sea-scape beauty, moderate climate etc.
It
is situated Just 62 km from Bhubaneswar. Puri is the holy city of
the hindus as a part of the char dham pilgrimages. According to Hindu
parmpara, without a journey to Puri Jagnnath temple a pilgrimage is
not considered to complete. one of the best beaches where both sunrise
and sunset can be viewed. In the festival of Rath Yatra in Puri the
three deities Jagannath, Balabhadra, and Subhadra appear in the huge
chariots in modern times in the temple background.The District is happy for different religions, sects and faith in course of history, Hindu, Buddhist, Jaina, Muslim, Christian, Sikh found here. Cultural program is organized on every second saturday of the month two hours, in the evening at the collector's conference Hall C (Near Sea bech Police Station) Puri by District Council of culture. Apera is the very popular mobile drama troupe in the puri. Museum is popular for different veshas of Lord Jagannath, Sculptures of various Kinds, Patta paintings palm leaf paintings, numerous varieties of Handicrafts . Bada Thakura(Lord Jagannath), Bada Danda(Grand Road), Bada Deula(Jagannath temple), Bada Raja(King of puri), Maha Prasada(cooked food from the temple), Maha Dipa(oil candel), Bad Danda(Big road) etc. are notable persons and things in Puri.
Festival
|
celebration month
|
Description
|
Car Festival (Ratha Yatra)
|
July(Ashadha)
|
in all the Jagnnath Pithas
|
Chandan Yatra
|
April( chaitra)
|
|
Gosani Yatra
|
September/October
|
Dasahara
|
Sahi Yatra
|
March/April
|
for 7 days from Rama Navami
|
Maha Shiva Ratri
|
February/March
|
in all the Saiva Pithas
|
Harirajpur Melan
|
March
|
Harirajpur
|
Aunla Navami
|
November
|
Sakshigopal
|
Makar Mela
|
January( Makar sankanti)
|
Chilika
|
Bali Harachandi Mela
|
during the Raj Festival in June
|
Brahmagiri
|
Rajarani Temple - Odisha
Rajarani Temple
Rajarani
temple is one of the architectural splendors of Odisha ,Bhubaneswar in
11th century in the district of Khurda located towards north-east of
Lingaraj temple. Earlier Raja Rani temple was known as Indreshwara
Temple, which was dedicated to Lord Shiva. The entire structure exudes
grace and elegance set in open paddy fields . It is famous for its
sculpted figures and the successive tiers of projections rising to form
its 18 m tower and also the tall and slender nayikas (temple figures)
carved in high relief on the walls-figures in amorous dalliance and in
such acts as fondling her child, looking into the mirror, taking off her
anklet, caressing the bird, playing instrument, holding branches of
trees etc.
It has a square sanctuary and its interior and exterior surfaces are so recessed that it appears circular. The ornamental deul stands diagonal to the severely plain jagamohana. They are standing from the entrance in a clockwise order surrounding the porch and the deul to end back at the torana. The eight guardians carved around the shrine are Indra-God of rain, Agni-God of fire, Yama-God of death, Nirriti-God of suffering, Varuna-God of ocean, Vayu-God of wind, Kubera-God of wealth and Ishana (Shiva.) , dressed in diaphanous drapery they stand on lotuses, with their mounts below.
It has a square sanctuary and its interior and exterior surfaces are so recessed that it appears circular. The ornamental deul stands diagonal to the severely plain jagamohana. They are standing from the entrance in a clockwise order surrounding the porch and the deul to end back at the torana. The eight guardians carved around the shrine are Indra-God of rain, Agni-God of fire, Yama-God of death, Nirriti-God of suffering, Varuna-God of ocean, Vayu-God of wind, Kubera-God of wealth and Ishana (Shiva.) , dressed in diaphanous drapery they stand on lotuses, with their mounts below.
Mukteswara Temple -Odisha
Mukteswara Temple
Mukteswar is one of the major gem architecture temple of Odisha ,bhubaneswar. It is unique monument constructed
in the year 950 AD of 10th century , made for meditation & temple's name Mukteswara
devoted to Lord Shiva, who gives freedom and is carved with figures of ascetics in several poses depict stories from the Panchatantra written by Vishnu Sharma.
The Gateway to this temple excellent combinations of Hindu and Buddhist and Jain features, which find a common voice in much of Odisha temple craft., modeled on the torana recovered from the field in Bhubaneswar, bears sculptures that range from elaborate scrolls. The sculptured gateway, the jagamohana with diamond shaped latticed windows and decorated interiors and the plethora of sculptural work all deserve mention rising to a height of 35 feet. This temple has also been described as a dream realized in sandstone and it is a monument where it is said sculpture and architecture are in complete harmony with one another. Richly sculpted, the temple offers pride of place to tales from the Panchatantra. The sophisticated architectural style holds a magnetic appeal that lies in its indigenous glory.
Mukteswar is one of the major gem architecture temple of Odisha ,bhubaneswar. It is unique monument constructed
in the year 950 AD of 10th century , made for meditation & temple's name Mukteswara
devoted to Lord Shiva, who gives freedom and is carved with figures of ascetics in several poses depict stories from the Panchatantra written by Vishnu Sharma. The Gateway to this temple excellent combinations of Hindu and Buddhist and Jain features, which find a common voice in much of Odisha temple craft., modeled on the torana recovered from the field in Bhubaneswar, bears sculptures that range from elaborate scrolls. The sculptured gateway, the jagamohana with diamond shaped latticed windows and decorated interiors and the plethora of sculptural work all deserve mention rising to a height of 35 feet. This temple has also been described as a dream realized in sandstone and it is a monument where it is said sculpture and architecture are in complete harmony with one another. Richly sculpted, the temple offers pride of place to tales from the Panchatantra. The sophisticated architectural style holds a magnetic appeal that lies in its indigenous glory.
Tuesday 17 January 2012
Konark temple - Odisha - wallpaper
Monday 16 January 2012
Manipuri Dance Style
Manipuri Dance
Manipuri
is the classical dance of the north East Indian state of Manipur which
is surrounded by mountains and geographically isolated at the meeting
point of the orient and mainland India. It has unique form of very high
artistic and technical standardsdance form among the classical Indian
dance, development of music and dance has through religious festivals ,
occassion and daily activities of the Manipuri people throughout the
area. It is one of the purest, modest, softest and mildest and
meaningful dance. According to legends the original creator of Manipuri
dance was Radha and Krishna.The most striking part of Manipur dance is its colorful decoration, lightness of dancing foot, delicacy of abhinaya (drama), lilting music and poetic charm. The Manipuri dance form is mostly ritualistic and draws heavily from the rich culture of the state of Manipur. Costumes used in the Manipur dance are colorful and the music carries a quaint charm. This Rasa Leela dance is said to be repeated by Shiva and his consort, Goddess Uma in Lasya style (in Manipur). It is interesting to note that the same dance (Rasa-dance) was performed for the third time by two mortal human beings, princess Toibi and Khamba of Manipur.
The traditional Manipuri dance style embodies delicate, lyrical and graceful movements. It is this which gives Manipuri dance its undulating and soft appearance. The foot movements are viewed as part of a composite movement of the whole body. The dancer puts his or her feet down, even during vigorous steps, with the front part touching the ground first. The ankle and knee joints are effectively used as shock absorbers. The dancer’s feet are neither put down nor lifted up at the precise rhythmic points of the music but rather slightly earlier or later to express the same rhythmic points most effectively.
A copper plate inscription credits King Khuoyi Tompok (c. 2nd century CE) with introducing drums and cymbals into Manipuri dance. Ras Lila, the Pung Cholom, Nupa Cholom, Thoibi are the most important dance forms. There are five Ras Lilas that deal with the divine love of Radha and Krishna. These are: Maharas, Vasantras, Kunjaras, Nityaras and Divaras. The theme revolves around the love of Krishna and the milkmaids (gopis), which is generally performed in a special enclosure in front of the temple called Nat Mandap.
Dance is based upon the cymbals (kartal or manjira) and the cylindrical drum known as Manipuri mridang or pung. The other classical, dances where the instrument is merely used as an accompaniment, the pung and the kartal (manjira) are actually used in the dance. Other common instruments are the harmonium, pena, bansuri, shankh (conch), and esraj.North Indian (Hindustani) music is a very characteristic style of music in this dance form.Usually the songs are used in such as Sanskrit, Maithili, Brijbhasha Manipuri or others from the great poets like Jaydev, Vidyapati, Chandidas, Govindadas or Gyandas.
Pung,Kartal (Manjira) and Manzilla,Pena,Harmonium,Bansuri,Esraj,Shankh are the Musical Instruments Used Manipuri in the dance form.
Kathak Dance Style
Kathak Dance
Kathak dance is originated from northern India. It is the major classical dances of India and one of the most dynamic theater arts in the world. The word kathak is derived from the Sanskrit word Katha
,which means "to tell a story". Kathak was primarily associated with an
institution known as the
tawaif. It was misunderstood institution of female entertainers, but
this dance form traces its origins to the the nomadic bards which has highest
demand, standards of training, intelligence, and most important,
civility . These bards, performing in village squares and temple
courtyards, mostly specialized in recounting mythological and moral
tales from the scriptures, and embellished their recitals with hand
gestures and facial expressions. It was quintessential theatre, using
instrumental and vocal music along with stylized gestures, to enliven
the stories from slow to fast, ending with a dramatic climax.
There are three main gharanas, or schools of kathak, named by according
to the geographical area in which they developed. These are the Jaipur,
Lucknow, and the Benares gharanas. Each has a slight difference in
interpretation and repertoire
Costume - Costume
sometimes consists of a saree,chudidaar kamij , lehenga-choli with an
optional odhni or veil highly ornately decorated specifically which are
greater freedom of movement during dance.
Music - Bansuri,
Dilruba, Esraj, Ghungharu, Harmonium, Pakhawaj, Santur, Sarangi, Sarod,
Sitar, Surmandal, Tabla, Tanpura are the musical instruments etc, which
are used in dance form. The dancer begins with an invocation Vandana to
dedicated the gods. The first introduction of spoken rhythmic pattern
or bol in to the performance is Aamad means entry. Then Salaami which is
a salutation to the audience in the Muslim style. The bols can be
borrowed from tabla (e.g. dha, ge, na, 'ti' 'na' 'ka'
'dhi na') or can be a dance variety (ta, thei, tat, ta ta, tigda,
digdig, tram theyi and so on). A footwork composition consisting of
variations on a theme, and ending in a tiha. Tihai, usually a footwork
composition consisting of a long set of bols
repeated thrice so that the very last bol ends dramatically on 'sam'.
After
the 16th century the environment of the North Indian Mughal courts
caused a shift in
focus for Kathak, from a purely religious art form to court
entertainment. This dance form possesses a facial expression or facial
abhinaya , body-postures, for example the tribhangi position, which is
common to most Indian dance forms, and hand movements while seated
through bhajan, ghazal or thumri, Kathak to show feeling or Bhaav or
katha or story. This abhinaya arose in the Mughal court known as mehfil
or darbar .
Kathak
was used to narrate the live figures of Radha-Krishna rasa
lella,Krishna-Leela (Krishna’s childhood) in the holy land of Vrindavan
as a folk elements.
Famous Kathak Dancers - Malabika Mitra, Prerana Shrimali, Geetanjali Lal, Urmila Nagar, Shovana Narayan, Roshan Kumari, Kumudini Lakhia
Kathak dancer Shovana Narayan, recipient of the Padma Shri award.Kuchipudi Dance Style
Kuchipudi Dance
Kuchipudi
is the Classical Indian dance of South India state of Andhra Pradesh,
this word Kuchipudi is derived from a small village name Kuchelapuram
about 65 kms from Vijaywada. It is known for its graceful movements and
its strong narrative dramatic character, composition of both song and
dancecalled as daru which is typically Carnatic music and abhinaya,
which is world famous as a classical dance. With resident Brahmins
practicing this traditional dance form and in their programs were
offerings to the deities and they never allowed women in their groups.
In the 15th century saint Siddhendra Yogi championed the cause of
redefining this dance form aiming at eliminating exploitation of women. .
It has unique indiviudal traditionally dancing form, movements of its
dance are quicksilver and scintillating, rounded and fleet-footed and
must dance upon a brass plate, placing the feet upon the raised edges
with balance. Abhinaya Darpana and Bharatarnava of Nandikeshwara, which
is sub-divided into Nattuva Mala and Natya Mala. Nattuva Mala is of two
types — the Puja dance performed on the Balipitha in the temple and the
Kalika dance performed in a Kalyana Mandapam.Natya Mala is of three
kinds — ritual dance for gods, Kalika dance for intellectuals and
Bhagavatam for common place.
The Kuchipudi dance begins with worship rituals, then the dancer moves about sprinkling holy water, and then incense is burned. Women sing and dance with worship lamps, followed by the worship of Ganesha, the elephant god, who is traditionally petitioned for success before all enterprises. The songs are goddesses Saraswati (Learning), Lakshmi (Wealth), and Parashakti (Parent Energy), in between chanting drum syllables. The charm of Kuchipudi lies in its fast and intricate footwork, sinuous grace, and the use of the eyes to express moods and feelings followed by 'Natya Shastra .The Kuchipudi dancers are experts in Sattwika Abhinaya, Bhava Abhinaya.
Nilimma Devi,Anila Kumari,Dr. Vempati Chinna Satyam,Guru P. V. Bharani Shenkar,Chinta Ravi Bala Krishna,Guru Bhagavathula Yagna Narayana Sarma,
Guru Jayarama Rao, Vanashree Rao,Srinivasa Rao Ravi,Vedantam Lakshminarayana,Dr. Uma Rama Rao,Tadepalli Perayya,Chinta Krishna Murthy,Vedantam Sathya Narayana Sarma,Dr. Korada Narasimha Rao,Guru Bala Kondala Rao are the well known person in this tradition dance.
Mridangam, Manjira ,Saraswati Vina (South Indian Vina), Violin,Kanjira, Tanpura,Venu, Surpeti are the Musical Instruments used in this dance form .
Kuchipudi
is the Classical Indian dance of South India state of Andhra Pradesh,
this word Kuchipudi is derived from a small village name Kuchelapuram
about 65 kms from Vijaywada. It is known for its graceful movements and
its strong narrative dramatic character, composition of both song and
dancecalled as daru which is typically Carnatic music and abhinaya,
which is world famous as a classical dance. With resident Brahmins
practicing this traditional dance form and in their programs were
offerings to the deities and they never allowed women in their groups.
In the 15th century saint Siddhendra Yogi championed the cause of
redefining this dance form aiming at eliminating exploitation of women. .
It has unique indiviudal traditionally dancing form, movements of its
dance are quicksilver and scintillating, rounded and fleet-footed and
must dance upon a brass plate, placing the feet upon the raised edges
with balance. Abhinaya Darpana and Bharatarnava of Nandikeshwara, which
is sub-divided into Nattuva Mala and Natya Mala. Nattuva Mala is of two
types — the Puja dance performed on the Balipitha in the temple and the
Kalika dance performed in a Kalyana Mandapam.Natya Mala is of three
kinds — ritual dance for gods, Kalika dance for intellectuals and
Bhagavatam for common place.The Kuchipudi dance begins with worship rituals, then the dancer moves about sprinkling holy water, and then incense is burned. Women sing and dance with worship lamps, followed by the worship of Ganesha, the elephant god, who is traditionally petitioned for success before all enterprises. The songs are goddesses Saraswati (Learning), Lakshmi (Wealth), and Parashakti (Parent Energy), in between chanting drum syllables. The charm of Kuchipudi lies in its fast and intricate footwork, sinuous grace, and the use of the eyes to express moods and feelings followed by 'Natya Shastra .The Kuchipudi dancers are experts in Sattwika Abhinaya, Bhava Abhinaya.
Nilimma Devi,Anila Kumari,Dr. Vempati Chinna Satyam,Guru P. V. Bharani Shenkar,Chinta Ravi Bala Krishna,Guru Bhagavathula Yagna Narayana Sarma,
Guru Jayarama Rao, Vanashree Rao,Srinivasa Rao Ravi,Vedantam Lakshminarayana,Dr. Uma Rama Rao,Tadepalli Perayya,Chinta Krishna Murthy,Vedantam Sathya Narayana Sarma,Dr. Korada Narasimha Rao,Guru Bala Kondala Rao are the well known person in this tradition dance.
Mridangam, Manjira ,Saraswati Vina (South Indian Vina), Violin,Kanjira, Tanpura,Venu, Surpeti are the Musical Instruments used in this dance form .
Thursday 12 January 2012
The Classical dance - Bharata Natyam( fire dance)
Dance form
The dance perform is based on 'Adavu' (steps), 'bhavabhinaya' (facial expression) and 'Hasthamudra' (hand gestures). There are 64 basic 'Adavu' and divided it into 9 parts, on which 'Thattadavu', 'Naatadavu', 'Kuthithumettadavu', 'Mandiadavu', 'Sarikkal' and 'Thattumettu' are very important. The performance begins with the prayers to God Ganapathi and worship of Nataraja Murti. The sequence of the dance performance is 'Alarippu', 'Jathiswaram', 'Sabdam', 'Varnam', 'Padam' and 'Thillana'. After 'Thillana', the dance program ends with a 'Mangala Sloka' . Bharata Natyam has three distinct elements to it: Nritta (rhythmic dance movements), Natya (mime, or dance with a dramatic aspect) and Nritya (combination of Nritta and Natya).
Among all classical dance, Bharata Natyam is considered to be a 'fire dance', Odissi (water), Mohiniattam (air), Kuchipudi (earth) and Kathakali (sky). This Bharata Natyam dancer's right hand is in the Katakamukha Hasta, the three joined fingers symbolizing the sacred syllable "OM". The left hand's fingers are in Alapadma Hasta, the rotating lotus of spiritual light. The eyes are directed towards the Supreme Lord. The left leg is lifted, symbolizing the swift ascent of the consciousness in one step from the Earth to the Heaven.
costume
The costume of this dance is paijama and jacket of Kanchipuram silk or Banaras silk with lots of ornaments of shining stones on neck, ears, hands, and head, jasmin garland in the hair and foot trinklet with small bells .
music
Dance and music are inseparable forms; only with Sangeetam (words or syllables set to raga or melody) can dance be conceptualized. The music of Bharatanatyam is based on Carnatic classical music. Veena, Flute, Mridangam and Violin are the music instruments, which are used in dance performance.
Narthaki
The Natya Shastra states the qualities required a female dancer narthaki, because they have beautiful limbs, free from indolence, capable and conversant with the sixty-four arts and crafts (kala), clever, courteous in behavior, brave, hard working, good skilled in dancing and songs, beauty, brilliant and many more other qualities for that it is known as a female dancers.
Famous Bharatanatyam Dancers
1. Priya Murali
2. Sucharita Datta
3. Ganga Thampi
4. A. Janardhanan
5. Smt. Shaly Vijayan
6. Renjith Babu C.
7. The Dhananjayans
8. Parvathi Ravi Ghantasala
9. Fumika Kawaharada
10.J. Suryanarayana Murthy
11.Bobby Joseph
12.Rumya Shanker
13.Deepa Lakshmi
14.Lakshmi N. Pillai
15.Swarna
16.Radha Marar
17.Uma Palam Pulendran
18.Gayathri Subramaniam
19.Rashmi Joji John
20.N. Priyadarshini
21.Bala Saraswath
22. Mrinalini Sarabhai
23. Rugmini Arundel
24.Kamala Laxman
25. Padma Subrahmaniam
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