Orissa Orissa with its fertile green coastal plains rising to the hills of the Eastern ghats, is predominantly rural. Agriculture not only provides 80 percent of the employment but is also the main contributor to the economy. Iron ore is also exported by this state. Industrial progress in Orissa has quickened in recent years. Agro based industries, minerals, steel and mine industries also contribute to the state's economy. Emphasis has also been laid onleather, ferro alloys, electronics, iron industries and on production of tea, coffee, rubber, cashew nuts, spices, plastic and energy. Enchanting Odissi Odissi, probably originated from the temple dances of the devadasis (temple dancers). Possibly the oldest classical dance form, it is depicted on sculptures, in temples like the Brahmeswara and the dancing hall of the Sun temple at Konark. In fact in the 1950’s the entire Odissi dance form was revitalized with the help of the Abhinaya Chandrika and sculpted dance poses found in temples. Orissa enjoys a rich tradition of tribal and folk dances as well. Chhau from Mayurbhanj District is a martial dance form reminiscent of Orissa’s earlier tradition. Other folk and tribal dances include Danda Nata, a daylong performance ending in acrobatic sequences, Ranapa or dances in which dancers perform balancing acts on bamboo stilts.