Young boys performed Gotipua dance, dressing as female dancers. Unlike Maharis, who danced inside temples, Gotipua dancers entertained public audiences, showcasing devotion through acrobatic movements and expressive storytelling, keeping Odisha’s sacred dance traditions alive beyond temple rituals.
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Gotipua dance was performed by young boys dressed as female dancers, preserving the tradition once carried out by Maharis. While Maharis performed solely inside temples, Gotipua dancers brought devotional performances to public audiences. They used flexible, acrobatic movements to depict mythological stories, particularly tales of Lord Krishna. Their skillful storytelling and disciplined training helped keep Odisha’s sacred dance heritage alive. Over time, Gotipua’s influence contributed to the refinement and evolution of the classical Odissi dance form.