The book is a wide-ranging collection of essays on Indian classical dance. These include writings on dance appreciation, the criticism, theory and philosophy of dance, as well as some historical and light controversial articles. Also included a seminal and unique monograph on the contribution of Sanjukta Panigrahi to the development of Odissi.

The book approaches the subject from an internationalist point of view and opens up new possibilities for the appreciation of Indian dance in the context of a global intercultural critique. In addition, it is beautifully illustrated with a number of photographs by Arun Kumar. It will enrich and provide new ways of understanding for classical Indian dance, both for the dance community and for the general reader.