The Living Sculpture Odissi Between Temple and Modernity

📘Book Launching Event for “The Sacred Legacy of Odissi: Body, Ritual and Revival”

On an intellectually enriching and culturally resonant evening, scholars, dance practitioners, students of performing arts, and distinguished guests gathered to celebrate the launch of “The Sacred Legacy of Odissi: Body, Ritual and Revival.” Published under the banner of Karatowa Publication, the event marked not merely the release of an academic volume but a profound tribute to the spiritual, historical, and aesthetic journey of Odissi dance.

The book offers a deeply researched exploration of Odissi—from its mythological and temple origins to its colonial decline and post-independence reconstruction—positioning the dance as both embodied theology and cultural strategy.

🎤 Opening Address

The evening commenced with a thoughtful welcome note that highlighted the scholarly depth and cultural urgency of the book. The speaker emphasized that this work does not treat Odissi merely as a performance tradition, but as a living archive of…