REIMAGINING TRADITION: THE CONTEMPORARY RELEVANCE OF STRINGED INSTRUMENTS IN ODISSI AND FOLK DANCE PERFORMANCE

Abstract

The interplay between music and dance has long been central to the cultural fabric of India, particularly within classical and folk traditions. In Odisha, the symbiotic relationship between Odissi dance and its accompanying musical ensemble reflects a nuanced aesthetic deeply rooted in history, spirituality, and regional identity. Stringed instruments, once foundational to the sonic landscape of these performances, have undergone transformations in usage, perception, and relevance in contemporary practice. This article examines the evolving role of stringed instruments in Odissi and Odishan folk dance, analyzing their historical significance, current adaptations, and future potential in a rapidly modernizing cultural environment. It argues that rather than fading into obsolescence, stringed instruments are being reimagined to sustain both authenticity and innovation in performance traditions.