Gotipua is a vibrant and deeply devotional dance form of Odisha, where young boys dress as girls to perform intricate, expressive dances in praise of Lord Jagannath and Lord Krishna. Literally meaning “single boy” (Goti = single, Pua = boy), this centuries-old tradition blends acrobatics, storytelling, music, and feminine grace, and is considered the root of classical Odissi.
Unlike temple-based female Mahari dancers of ancient times, Gotipua emerged in village akharas (training schools) and continues as a living tradition, especially near Puri and Raghurajpur.
History & Origins of Gotipua Dance
From Maharis to Gotipuas
Gotipua originated in the 16th century, during the reign of King Rama Chandra Dev I, who also rebuilt the Jagannath Temple post-Muslim invasions.
With Mahari (Devadasi) tradition declining, young boys were trained to continue the devotional dance, especially to honor Lord Jagannath, Krishna, and Radha.
The Gotipua tradition is considered the bridge between Mahari temple dance and classical Odissi.
🛕 Temple & Village Performance Art
Though not part of temple rituals, Gotipua dancers performed near temples and during religious festivals, especially Radha Ashtami, Holi, and Kartika Purnima.
Their performances recreated episodes from Krishna Leela, the Ramayana, and Jagannath lore.
Artistic Style of Gotipua Dance
Key Characteristics
Element
Description
Dancers
Boys aged 6–15, trained from early childhood
Costume & Makeup
Traditional sarees, braided wigs, alta (red dye), nose pins, ornaments to appear feminine
Dance Style
Combination of Odissi-based choreography and acrobatic yoga postures
Themes
Radha-Krishna love, tales from mythology, devotion to Jagannath
Performance Music
Odissi music system with mardala, harmonium, violin, manjira
Acrobatic Precision
Dancers perform Bandha Nrutya – yogic and gymnastic poses inspired by temple sculptures.
Physical flexibility and balance are hallmarks of Gotipua, setting it apart from Odissi’s lyrical grace.
🛕 Relationship with Lord Jagannath & Puri
Gotipua is seen as seva (offering) to Lord Jagannath, Krishna, and Vishnu.
Most dancers are from villages around Puri, Konark, and Raghurajpur, where dance is part of daily life and temple festivals.
Performances happen during:
Chandan Yatra
Puri Beach Festival
Gosani Jatra
Bada Osha at temples like Kendrapara, Ganjam
Famous Gotipua Gurus
Guru
Contribution
Guru Maguni Charan Das
Padma Shri awardee, legendary mentor from Raghurajpur; revived Gotipua through structured akhara training
Guru Birabara Sahoo
Trained generations of Gotipuas near Konark
Guru Sashimani Devi
Though a Mahari, she blessed and supported Gotipua efforts as temple link
Guru Narendranath Jena
Well-known for combining dance with scriptural storytelling
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