It’s roots are in the Natyashastra written by Bharat Muni in the 2nd Century BC. The sculpturesque dance poses characterizing this dance are found in the temples of Orissa. Traditionally, it was performed in temples as a Mahari or Devadasi dance, dedicated to Lord Jagannath. Odissi is a flexible and graceful style.

It has all the elements of footwork and mime. The most distinguishing features are the torso movements and the body bends called ‘Bhangis’. The dance form is also composed of head and eye movements, hand gestures (Mudras), rhythmic footwork, jumps and spins.

Odissi is composed of traditional pieces. Some of these were formulated in the distant past when it was used in temple worship, and others arise from poetry and epic stories such as Geeta Govindam, written by poet Jayadeva.