Natamandira is a significant form of the northern Indian Nagara style in Orissa temple construction.
Between the bhogamandapa ("food pavilion") and the
jagamohan, or entry hall leading to the main image, lies the natamandira, a
part of the temple.
Natamandira means "dance-house" in Sanskrit.
The natamandira was utilized for performance in numerous
Orissan temples, particularly for the Orissi dance style that was developed and
perpetuated in these temples.
The performances were partially for the audience's aesthetic
enjoyment, but more as a sort of entertainment for the god himself.
Dances are still done as part of worship in nata mandiras,
although they are mostly presented for entertainment.
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