Most of the classical Indian dance forms had their birth in the temples or places of worship. The dance heritage of India is at least 5000 years old. Through the centuries the dances have been used as a vehicle of spiritual upliftment, worship, meditation and expression of emotions in India.
- Full Story (Sahapedia)

Maharis are the Devadasis from Odisha and are the chosen one for the seva or service to the Lord Jagannath. They were the holy brides of the Lord. A piece of cloth taken from the idol is tied around the head of the initiate danseuse by the temple priest to symbolize her marriage to the deity of the shrine.
- Full Story (E Odissa)