Odissi: Theory to Performance | BharatVidya

Classical Dance · Self-Paced

Odissi - Theory to Performance

A journey into India's timeless classical dance heritage

Explore the art of Odissi through precise footwork, expressive mudras, and storytelling through movement. Discover the music, history, and spiritual roots embedded in the Jagannath tradition and the sublime poetry of the Geet Govind.

11 modules ~10 hours Beginner level Lifetime access
₹1,600
Lifetime access
Start the Course →
Odissi classical dance performance
11 Modules
Comprehensive
~10 Hours
Video Content
Beginner
Level
English
Language
Certificate
Included

Course Overview

The Timeless Elegance of Indian Classical Dance

This self-paced online course offers a foundational introduction to the classical dance form of Odissi. You will explore techniques of precise footwork, expressive mudras, and the art of storytelling through movement—elements that have defined this tradition for centuries.

The course delves into the music, history, and spiritual roots embedded in the Jagannath tradition and the sublime poetry of the Geet Govind. From the temple dancers (Maharis) to the modern revival, you'll understand the complete evolution of this art form.

Whether you're a dancer seeking theoretical grounding, an art historian exploring classical traditions, or simply curious about India's cultural heritage—this course provides an immersive journey into the technique, philosophy, and cultural context that define Odissi.

Ideal for dancers, art historians, cultural enthusiasts, and anyone curious about India's classical heritage.

Learning Outcomes

What You Will Learn

Learn the foundational movements, postures, and footwork of Odissi classical dance
Understand Nritta (pure dance) and Nritya (expressive dance)—the two pillars of classical technique
Explore Mudras (hand gestures) and their role in narrative storytelling
Discover the historical and textual origins of Odissi music and its evolution
Study Aharya (visual aesthetics)—costume, jewelry, and stage presentation
Master the Margam (repertoire)—the traditional sequence of Odissi performance
Appreciate the legacy of the Jagannath Temple, Maharis, and the sublime Geet Govind
Build a foundation for further study or in-person training with a Guru

11 Modules · ~10 Hours

Complete Curriculum

A comprehensive journey from theory to performance

01

Introduction

2 materials · 54 min
+
The Timeless Elegance of Indian Classical Dance
Bibliography for Further Reading
02

Fundamental Footwork and Body Movements

1 lecture · 1h 3m
+
Fundamental Footwork and Body Movements in Odissi Dance
03

Nritta and Nritya: The Two Main Components

1 lecture · 47 min
+
Understanding the Two Main Components of Odissi Dance: Nritta and Nritya
04

Mudras and Their Usage

1 lecture · 33 min
+
Introduction to the Various Types of Mudras and Their Usage in Odissi Dance
05

Odissi Music: History and Textual Foundations

1 lecture · 1h
+
Odissi Music: History, Evolution, and Textual Foundations
06

Aharya: Visual Aesthetics of Odissi

1 lecture · 45 min
+
Aharya in Odissi: The Visual Aesthetics of Odissi Dance
07

The Revival of Odissi Margam

1 lecture · 56 min
+
The Revival of Odissi Margam: A Detailed Exploration
08

The Legends of Lord Jagannath

4 lectures · 1h 56m
+
The Legends of Lord Jagannath
Life of Maharis and Temples
The Jagannath Temple and its Impact
Buddhism, Shaivism and Vaishnavism
09

Odissi Dance: Tradition, Evolution and Repertoire

1 lecture · 43 min
+
Odissi Dance: Tradition, Evolution and Repertoire
10

Geet Govind: Divine Love and Aesthetic Legacy

1 lecture · 1h 3m
+
Geet Govind: A Journey of Divine Love and Aesthetic Legacy
11

Assessment

43 questions
+
Odissi Quiz — Comprehensive Assessment
Smt. Pracheeti Dange — Odissi exponent and teacher

Your Instructor

Smt. Pracheeti Dange

Accomplished Odissi Exponent & Teacher

Smt. Pracheeti Dange is an accomplished Odissi exponent and teacher, officially empanelled with the Indian Council for Cultural Relations (ICCR), Government of India. With over 15 years of dedicated practice and performance, she has represented the classical dance tradition of Odissi on global platforms.

Her performances have graced prestigious venues including Oxford University, the UK Parliament, and the Science Museum, London. Guided by her revered gurus, her artistic journey reflects a deep commitment to preserving and propagating the timeless elegance of Odissi.

  • ★ Recipient of the prestigious 'She Inspires Award'at the UK Parliament
  • ★ Honoured with the National Bhaskar Bhushan – Pride of India Award
  • ★ Recipient of the Odissi Jyoti Awardfor excellence in classical dance

Common Questions

Do I need prior dance experience?+

No prior dance experience is required. This course is designed as a theoretical and appreciative introduction to Odissi. It will provide you with foundational knowledge that can support practical training with a guru.

Is this course practical or theoretical?+

This is primarily a theoretical course covering history, technique, music, and cultural context. While you'll see performance demonstrations, in-person training with a qualified guru is recommended for practical skill development.

Will I see actual Odissi performances?+

Yes! The course includes 5+ traditional Odissi compositions performed by the instructor, including invocations and narrative pieces from the Geet Govind tradition.

How long do I have access to the course?+

You have lifetime access to all course materials. Watch at your own pace, revisit any module, and return to refresh your understanding of Odissi whenever you wish.

Is there a certificate?+

Yes, upon completing all modules and the final quiz, you will receive a certificate of completion from BharatVidya that you can share professionally.

Begin Your Journey into Odissi

From the temples of Puri to the poetry of Geet Govind—discover the timeless elegance of India's classical dance heritage.

₹1,600
Start the Course →

11 modules · ~10 hours · Lifetime access · Certificate included

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