Infused with aesthetic sensuousness, flowing movements and rare lyrical grace, Odissi may well claim to be the earliest classical Indian dance on the basis of archival evidence (Rani Gumpha caves of the 2nd Century B.C. in Orissa are considered to be earlier than the writings of Natyashastra). The Odissi dance form, belonging to the state of Orissa, was performed in the past by the Devadasis in the temples. The striking feature of Odissi is its intimate relation with the sculpture. One feels the illusion of the sculpture coming to life. Appealing, devotional and lyrical Odissi possesses brilliance of technique.
