Mangalacharan

Sanskrit

The invocatory opening of an Odissi recital.

RepertoireOdissi

Meaning

Mangalacharan begins an Odissi performance. The dancer enters with flowers, offers them to the earth in bhumi pranam, salutes the deity, the guru and the audience, and asks for blessings before the recital proper begins.

Related words

PallaviOdissi's item of pure dance, blossoming from stillness.MokshaThe concluding Odissi item, dance as release.AlarippuThe opening item — the body unfolding, like a flower.MargamThe traditional order of a Bharatanatyam recital.PadamA slow expressional piece, usually of love or devotion.ShabdamThe first item with lyrics, where expression enters.

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