| Abstract: | The Maharis or devadasis were attached to Orissan temples from at least the 9th century. Those attached to the Jagannath temple are Vaishnavites, but elsewhere they are also dedicated to Shiva or Shakti. The Bheetar-Gani Maharis are permitted to enter the sanctum sanctorum unlike the Bahar-Gani Maharis. The Maharis, governed by strict rules of conduct and duties, performed daily, and later at annual festivals at the Jagannath temple. The Gotipuas (Akhadapilas), boy-dancers dressed as girls, were introduced by the Bhoi king Ramachandradeva. They danced in the Odissi style, on themes drawn from the Puranas and the Gita Govinda, during social gatherings and religious festivals. Source of Abstract: Provided by Publisher |
