Question

Maharis or Gotipuas are the dancers of which dance form?

• A. Mohiniyattam
• B. Odissi
• C. Bharatanatyam
• D. Kathak

Hint:

Remember the historical precursors for major dance forms. For Odissi, the key terms are Mahari (female temple dancers) and Gotipua (young boy dancers). For Bharatanatyam, it's the Devadasis.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is B

Step 1: Understanding the Concept:
The question asks to identify the classical dance form that evolved from the traditions of the Mahari and Gotipua dancers.
Step 2: Detailed Explanation:
The modern classical dance form of Odissi traces its lineage to two primary historical traditions in Odisha:
1. Maharis: These were the ritual temple dancers (similar to the devadasis of South India) who danced in the Jagannath temple in Puri. They represented the feminine or 'lasya' aspect of the dance.
2. Gotipuas: These were young boys dressed as females who danced in public spaces and outside the temples. They incorporated more acrobatic and virile 'tandava' elements into the dance.
The confluence of these two traditions led to the reconstruction and revival of Odissi in the 20th century.
Step 3: Final Answer:
Maharis and Gotipuas are the traditional dancers associated with the Odissi dance form.