Natamandira

In the temple architecture of Orissa,
one of the major forms of the northern
Indian Nagara style. The natamandira is
the section of the temple found between
the bhogamandapa (“food-pavilion”)
and the jagamohan, or entrance hall
leading to the main image. Natamandira
literally means “dance-house.” In many
Orissan temples the natamandira was
used for performance, in particular for
the Orissi dance style that was developed and sustained in these temples.
The performances were partly for the
aesthetic appreciation of the spectators,
but mainly as an offering of entertainment to the deity himself. Although
dances are still performed at the natamandiras as a part of worship, they are
primarily staged for entertainment.