This overview of the classical dance of Orissa spans its historical development from the 2nd century B.C. It traverses through the feminine temple dance tradition to the medieval spreading of spiritual consciousness through the bhakti inspired dance of young boys in the gotipua tradition. And most importantly, its revival in the 20th century as part of India's reclamation of national identity pre and post Independence. The repertoire, training and technique of today's Odissi is explained with a clarity that students of dance and aficionados of Indian performing arts will find of great value in understanding this lyrical art form.