Odissi is dependent on Geeta Govinda rather than any other theme. It is generally believed that the composers fixed the talas and ragas of each song as in those of Geeta Govinda. Mostly these romantic compositions are set in a slow tempo and the dancer gets full scope to depict the emotion by gestures and softer movements to bring home to the audience the full meaning of the compositions. Odissi’s dependence on Geeta Govinda has enhanced its popularity and made it acceptable to the masses. The dance while portraying the bhava brings out the myriad nuances of the Shringar rasa. The songs used in this item deal with devotion or Bhakti Ras. The themes of Odissi almost commonly revolve around Krishna. The Ashtapadis of Jayadev are a very common theme. Although incorporating a range of emotions and mythologies, the eternal union of Radha and Krishna (Gita Govinda) is central to the abhinaya here. Odissi utilizes powerful, energetic footwork (tandava), juxtaposed with sinuous, graceful feminine postures and movements (Lasya). Handed down from teacher to disciple for thousands of years, Odissi emphasizes, and in fact, centers on spirituality and devotion.