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.

Khandagiri & Udayagiri Caves -Odisha

Just 7 kms west of Bhubaneswar are the twin hills of Khandagiri and Udaygiri facing each other, honeycombed with caves.From 1st century BC the sandstone caves were excavated by Jain and Buddhist ascetics . The hills are literally filled with caves and over recent years the preservation of the rare carvings and general structure of the site has been the focus of a great deal of attention from the Archaeological Survey of India. Across the road just a few minutes walk leads to Khandagiri Caves, the Ananta Vasudev Cave , with its decorated pilasters and carved figures,is most interesting . A short but steep path leads to the top of the hill from where a panormic view of the city is obtainable. Caves 1 and 2, also known as the Parrot caves because of the figures of birds carved on its entrance are other must visits.

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.

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.

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.

Konark temple - Odisha - wallpaper

Konark Temple in Orissa dedicated to the Sun God is an 13th-century architectural wonder enhancing the beauty of Konark City.

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.

Tara Tarini temple odisha

The Ancient Shakti Pitha near Purushottamapur,Ganjam, Odisha.

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 .

The Classical dance - Bharata Natyam( fire dance)

Bharata Natyam is the most significant clssical dance by Carnitic music of South Indian state of Tamil Nadu. This dance inspirations come from the sculptures of ancient Chidambaram temple. The name 'Bharatanatyam' is derived from three basic concepts of Bhava, Raga and Taala. The theory  is based on the  'Natyasaasthram' and 'Abhinaya Darpanam' books. In Hindu mythology the whole universe is the dance of the Supreme Dancer, Nataraja, which is the name of Lord Shiva prsented by Ananda Tandava.


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

odisha dance style

Best Destination of Odisha - Golden Triangle

The culturally rich state Odisha is world famous for several popular tourist destinations known as Temple city of India, which is lies on the eastern coast of the Bay of Bengal. Among all the major tourist attractions in Odisha are Puri(famous for Lord Jagannath),  Konark(famous for sun temple) & Bhubaneswar(famous for Nandankanan) are three awesome placeof Odisha, which known as Golden triangle of eastern India.

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

Konark

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."


Bhubaneswar
Bhubaneswar is the  capital of Odisha and a blend of century old customs cosmopolitan culture  magnificent sculptures and architectural heritage. It is situated in the eastern coastal plains of Orissa and south-west of the Mahanadi River.The major tourist attractions in Bhubaneswar such as  ancient temples Like Lingaraja temple, Rajarani temple, Parasuramesvera and Yogini, Handicrafts and State Museums, Khandagiri-Udayagiri Caves, Dhauligiri( kaling war) and Nandankanan Wildlife Sanctuary enthralls  its visitors who long for more on their visit to the city .

The infamous Kalinga War was held near Dhauli , located in south Bhubaneswar in the 3rd Century BCE. The Jain and Buddhist shrines give a clear picture about the settlements around Bhubaneswar in the first two centuries B.C, and one of the most complete edicts of the Mauryan emperor, Ashoka, dating between 272-236 B.C, remains carved in rock just 5 miles to the southwest of the modern city.

The Car festival - Odisha

In Odisha the Car festival  or rath yatra is most famous festivals which is celebrated during the month of ashadha sukla ditiya tithi( June - July) bright fortnight which is also fixed date in Skanda Purana . This  auspicious occasion attracts pilgrims and visitors from all over the world. The deities of Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra, are enshrined in a Jagannath Temple.The culture of Odisha exhibits a unique experiment in religion also known as land of Lord Jagannath . The culture of Odisha means the culture of Jagannath, and the culture of Jagannath means the synthesis of varied religions. He is also known as Jagabandhu, means he is the friend, philosopher, guide and the anchor of the purest thoughts of the people of the entire Universe. He is the Great Initial can say the supreme creative artist who has created himself and is also the source of all art. As 'Sakti', He is the source of all creative energy..

The three deities accompanied with a huge procession for 21 days cruise in beautiful decorated boats on Narendra Tank. On the full moon day of Jyestha (June), the Snanajatra(chandan yatra) or the bathing festival is observed, the deities are given a holy bath according to religious rites.After the bathing ritual the three deities are confined to a solitary abode for a fortnight where they undergo ayruvedic healing. They are offered special ayurvedic medicine - 'boli' and a liquid food called 'sarapana'. The deities spend 15 days in seclusion during which period they are repainted and prepared for the Car Festival. 

 During the Rath Yatra or Car festival, thousands of people pull the huge chariot where the three deities Jagannath, Balabhadra and Subhadra are placed in the huge decorated chariot brought out from the temple.The main chariot is 14 meters high and 10 meters square with 16 wheels dedicated  to Lord Krishna, his brother Balaram and sister Subadhra, followed by resplendently decorated elephants, pilgrims on foot, acrobats and gymnasts. The chariot of Lord Jagannath, known as 'Nandighose' is 23 cubits high and has 18 wheels. The chariot of Balabhadra which is 22 cubits in height and has 16 wheels is named 'Taladwaja'. 'Devadalan', the chariot of Subhadra is 21 cubits in height and has 14 wheels. The specialty of these chariots is, that they are constructed a new every year in accordance with strict and ancient prescription and supervisions. 


The carts actual construction  begins before two months of the festival day, on the third day of the bright fortnight of Vaisakha ( June - July). For the construction, more than 600 trees, or 400 cubic meters of wood, are needed which is  taken from the local forests, along the banks of the Mahanadi River. Same simple use making the carts since past hundreds of years. The basic elements are the wheels. The ropes of the huge chariots are pulled by millions of devotees , irrespective of religion, caste or creed to achieve the path of divine life.

According to the tradition, Gajapati Maharaja of Puri sweep and clean with golden broom. In Gundicha Yatra the three deities are reached in their mausi maa ghar or Gundichaghar and they stay eight days. After eight complete, they  return to their temple which is known as  Bahuda Yatra or Ultarath.  

The celebration is started in the time of Svarochisha Manu of the second manvantara and predicted to continue until the end of the second half of Lord Brahma's lifetime. In the Valmiki Ramayana, it is mentioned that when Lord Rama was getting ready to leave this world, he told Ravana's younger brother Vibhishan to worship Lord Jagannatha. In  Padma Purana describes that in Purushottama-Kshetra, or Jagannatha Puri, the supremely blissful Personality of Godhead pretends to be made of wood. In this way, although the Lord takes on what appears to be a material form, but it is completely spiritual by the causeless mercy of the Lord for the conditioned souls who cannot perceive the transcendental domain of his.

The shrine of Jagannath become most famous all universe.

 

Handicraft of Odisha -Patta chitras ,Sand Sculpture ,Silver Filigree

Handicraft of Odisha
Odisha is famous for lots of handicrafts which is included as Patta Chitra, Sand Art, Metal Work, Silver Filigree, Stone Carving and making Puppets and Masks etc, that have been running in the land of the life force according to their culture. The odiya artists have an ancient tradition making splendid pieces of art by hands which have been presenting long time their awe inspiring master pieces in  the world.

Patta chitras  
 Patta chitras are the miniature paintings which is used a subject matter with religious themes. The legend of patta chitra is specially depicted from Lord Krishna’s life mainly treated cloth known as Patta. The word Patta Chitra literally means a painted piece of cloth. This ritualistic art observes a fine sophisticated blend of art and folk element in the form of rich colors. The skilled hands of the talented artisans present dark red, red ochre, black, yellow, white and indigo in a different unique way.

Sand Sculpture 
 Another famous handicraft is sand art which is based in puri. The raw material of this art is only clean and fine-grained sand mixed with water. The origin of this art Poet Balaram Das was writting in Dandi Ramayan about this art.

Silver Filigree 
The art of Silver Filigree is famous and popularity basically in Cuttack which is very widely known silverware or Trakashi in the form of their tradition in Odisha. Thin wire silver foils make excellence art and fashion, which is a unique examples of artist. The filigree artists make the form of animals, birds, small show pieces, fine Jewellery pieces and daily use articles like vermilion receptacles which are really popular all over the world.

 

Handicraft of Odisha - Sand Art

Odisha is famous for its handicrafts mainly Patta Chitra, , Sand Art, Metal Work, Stone Carving, Silver Filigree, Masks and Puppets running as the life force in the cultural land based in Puri. But it spreads all over the world . The raw material for a sand sculpture is just only clean and fine-grained sand mixed with water, which is carved by Odiya artists. Every year a lot of people gathered to see the sand art festival which is celebrated in puri . The World champion great sand artist Sudarsan Patnaik creat different sand sculptures on different theme and he has also participated in more than 47 international sand sculpture championships/ festivals across the world and won many awards for the country. He created World's Biggest Sand Santa clause with a message Health and Happiness, Peace and Prosperity, which will be around 35 ft high at Puri beach.
The legend of sand art is that once during Rath Yatra, Poet Balaram Das, who is famous for Dandi Ramayan, tried to climb the chariot of Lord Jagannath to offer his prayers but the priests didn't allow him to do so. In frustration he went to Puri sea beach and started carving figures of Lord Jagannath, Devi Suvadra and Lord Balaram with sand and offered his prayers. His devotion for the deities was so immense that it was surprised for everyone. The original statues of the deities were vanished from the chariot and it was seen on the sea beach where Balaram Das offered his prayers. After that sand art was famous in Odisha and across all over world.

Now every year sand art festival is celebrated in the sea beach where people gathered and participate in this festival get name and fame all over world. Odisha is really proud of its great handicraft sand art as well as the great awesome sand artist.

Danda Nacha -Odisha

Danda Nacha is very popular and famous festival and a part of tradition folk dance in Odisha. This dance festival is regularly held by an old traditional orgnaizaion ‘Danda’. At the time of chaitra (march-april) in hindu calender, the fesival is celebrated in a grand manner with much enthusiasm by dadicating to Goddess Maa Kali and Lord Shiva. It is performed over a period stretching over thirteen days, 21days or one month continues till the “Meru Sankranti’ variously known as “Bisuba Sankranti’, ‘Pana Sankranti’ or "Mesha sankanti", etc.up to mesha sankanti.. People also celebrate Danda Brata ,Rudrakali Brata, Rudrakali fasting.

A large number of devotees come here to offer prayers and participate in the Dand Nach. Devotees willingly bear the Sun's heat, walk on fire and stay under water. "Dandua" or the dance of penance passess through three phases viz Dhuli danda (soil dance or Penance on the Sand’ for about three hours during mid day), Agni danda(fire dance) and Pani dance (water dance or Penance by the Water).


A yajna is conducted there with offerings to the holy fire accompanied by the chanting of mantras. When the yajna is over the priest offers a sacred thread to each dandua. For the moment they wear that thread and became the member of one family irrespective of every caste, called the ‘Tera Budhuta’. After performing in the inaugrual rituals, the above troupe leaves for a procession by beating the ‘dhol’ (a drum like instrument) ‘Jhanja’ (Cymbal) and ‘mahuri’ (A Shehnai type of instrument).They also hold flags of many hues, bunches of peacock feathers, a painting of Goddess Kali fixed to bamboo pole and a torch made from straw in the yajna fired called Chama Bara. During this festival the Danduas live on the frugal vegetarian meal a day. During the time of taking their meal some sound reached their ear then they have to leave from thier meal means thay can't take take their food. So the drums keep playing when thay take their meal.


On the ‘Meru Sankranti’ day the party comeback to their homeplace, then they perform their usual “Dhuli Danda’ in front of a house holder of the village, then breath taking ritual at “Kamana Ghar’. A puja archana(yajaan) is performed in the thee structure poles, two on the either side of the yajna pith and the third one is set up at the top connecting the tow .After that ‘Tera Budhuta’ is made to swing above on the horizontal pole , putting his head down wards and body bent at the keen, tied till a few drops of blood oozing through his nostrils are wiped away and in a half-conscious state. At that night time the Chadhaya Nach and apera or thature is enacted for the last time. The next day morning the “Tera Budhuta’ discarded their threads, they have been warning since the inaugural day during their bath. Finally, they share a common feast in which they take their favourite dishes.

Danda Nach is celebrated in several parts of Odisha, but the Chdheya Nata is not uniform. It is mostly wide spread in the Ganjam district of South Odisha.