The repertoire of Odissi can be divided into the two broad categories of nritta and abhinaya and tandava and lasya. The dancer very quickly and cleverly changes from one to the other according to the need of the expressional number, rhythmic syllables and abhinaya. The dance numbers are either in Sanskrit or Orissi and the music is a combine of Hindustani and Karnataka classical styles. The conductor chants the rhythmic syllables and plays the bronze cymbals. He is supported by another male vocalist, a drummer, playing on the pakhavaj and a flutist.

The performance and enjoyment of Odissi dance recital, at once so tender and vigorous, intensely erotic and devotional, moving and sculpturesque, is a unique experience, a constant source of delight and inspiration. It is an idiom which transcends all the limits of communication leading to a rich aesthetic and spiritual experience both for initiated and popular but receptive spectators.