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Odissi Dance From India: In Step With Spirituality
Photo from Rudrakshya
Odissi utilizes a series of "bhangis" or poses, and rounded, circular movements which are enhanced by the use of the torso in a series of specified gestures.
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Published: April 3, 2008
Unlike the melting pot of the United States, each state in India differs in language, food, clothing, culture, crafts and styles of classical dance.
The Tampa area will get a chance to experience one of these diverse dance styles on Saturday when Indian dance troupe Rudrakshya performs the classical Odissi dance at the University of South Florida.
Odissi is a classical style from one of India's eastern states, where it evolved as an expression of spirituality, like most dance forms in India. Classical dance is considered a means of achieving salvation, or union with the supreme being or God.
Odissi, known for its grace and lyricism, uses a series of "bhangis" or poses and circular movements for expression, says Lingaraj Pradhan, a spokeperson for Rudrakshya.
"We are happy to bring our art to a mainstream audience, many of whom have never seen a show like ours before," Pradhan says.
Saturday's performance is a tribute to the male form, or "purush ang," that is a specialty of the founder and teacher of the troupe, Guru Sri Bichitrananda Swain. The choreography also will feature excerpts form the "Gita Govinda," an ancient literary text written in a poetic form.
The troupe includes four musicians, five male dancers, four female dancers and Swain.
Odissi dance enthusiasts Gopa Rautray and Koruna Pathak of Tampa are eager to bring this aspect of vibrant Indian culture to the area and are encouraged by a past success where more than 300 turned out for a performance.
"We are certainly hoping for more than that this year, as we have the backing of USF and several other organizations, and a splendid theater with the right light and sound system to showcase this award-winning group," Pathak said.
Vidisha Priyanka
Indian dance troupe Rudrakshya; 6 to 8 p.m. Saturday, USF College of Visual and Performing Arts, Theatre 1, 4202 E. Fowler Ave., Tampa; $25 general admission, $100 VIP; (813) 598-9848 or (813) 340-2324
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