Abstract

India has a rich heritage of culture, traditions, and art forms. One such state is Odisha, located on the eastern coast of India, known for its vibrant and diverse cultural traditions. Odisha's tradition of sacred songs is a prominent aspect of its cultural legacy. These sacred songs have been passed down through centuries, blending influences from various sources and indigenous practices. The religious music of Odisha, mainly bhajans or kirtans, showcases the fusion of Hinduism, Buddhism, and indigenous traditions. These devotional songs, with Odia lyrics, have played a significant role in shaping Odisha's religious and creative heritage, seamlessly combining spirituality, music, and literature. These devotional songs have not only held cultural importance but also have had a lasting impact on India's diverse culture. These songs serve as a reflection of the pluralism and inclusivity that is characteristic of India. The devotional music of Odisha encompasses a wide range of forms, including Odīśī music, Bhajans, Odia Abhinaya Geeta, and Maha Mantra Kirtan-s. These forms of devotional music are explored in this study, delving into their poetic, melodic, and instrumentāl elements, as well as their religious and cultural contexts. Furthermore, notable composers and vocalists, such as Jayadeva, Salabega, and Prabhupada Baladeva Rath, have made significant contributions to Odisha's devotional music tradition, and their lives and art are examined in this study. The sacred songs of Odisha hold a significant place in India's vibrant culture, showcasing the fusion of Hinduism, Buddhism, and indigenous traditions. They serve as a bridge between spirituality, music, and literature, forming a unique cultural expression. The research aims to understand the composite culture of India by exploring the tradition of devotional songs in Odisha and evaluating their origins, subjects, musical aspects, and cultural value.