---- Previews on : ClassicalDance . TV ----Odissi is the classical dance form which originated in Orissa, an Eastern state in India. Like Bharatanatyam, this classical dance is also centuries old. This enchanting classical dance form of Orissa traces its origin to the temple dances of the Devadasis (temple dancers). This Classical dance diligently portrays the aesthetic charm of Natya (dramatic representation) and the brilliance of Nritta (pure dance). The feature that makes this dance form unique from other classical dances of India is Tribhangi. This is the posture the dancer attains when the body bends in three parts - head, bust and torso. Another characteristic worth mentioning is the shifting of torso from side to side. The theme of Odissi revolves around the divine tales of Radha and Krishna. Most of the Odissi recital consists of Ashtapadi from Jayadeva's 'Geeta Govinda', which is replete with elements of love and devotion. Odissi which serves as the ideal medium for their expression is truly a soft, lyrical, classical dance. Sujata Mohapatra - She is one of the famous Odissi dancers of India. She is the disciple and daughter -in- law of Guru Kelucharan Mohapatra. Her passion for the dance goes beyond just performance and is evident from her association with Srjan a premier institute for Odissi dance in India. Her dancing prowess has been acknowledged with prestigious awards like Pandit Jasraj Award, Smt. Sanjukta Panigrahi Award and Mahari Award.