Bharatanatyam Costume Accessories: Must-Have Items for Every Dancer

Bharatanatyam, one of India’s most revered classical dance forms, is a celebration of rhythm, storytelling, and tradition. Every movement, every expression carries centuries of cultural depth—and central to this performance is the Bharatanatyam costume.

A dancer’s attire isn’t just about appearance—it’s about embodying character, grace, and meaning. When you watch a Bharatanatyam performance, the rich silks, shimmering jewelry, and intricate accessories are not just beautiful—they are deeply symbolic and functional.

Let’s explore the must-have Bharatanatyam costume accessories that elevate every dancer’s presence on stage.

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Introduction to Bharatanatyam Costumes

A Bharatanatyam costume is far more than a piece of clothing—it’s an artistic expression. Inspired by South Indian temple dance traditions, the costume is designed to complement dynamic footwork, dramatic expressions (abhinaya), and graceful hand gestures (mudras).

Typical Costume Components:

• Silk Saree or Dance Skirt

• Fitted Blouse

• Fan-shaped Front Pleats

• Ankle Bells (Ghungroos)

• Temple Jewelry & Hair Adornments

The costume’s structure not only enhances the dancer’s movements but also reflects divinity and celebration through its vibrant colors like red, gold, and green.

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Essential Bharatanatyam Costume Accessories

Accessories are essential—they aren’t just decorative but serve specific functional and symbolic purposes. Here’s a detailed look at what brings a Bharatanatyam costume to life:

1. Ghungroos (Ankle Bells)

A rhythmic necessity, ghungroos are tied around the ankles and jingle with each foot movement. They help emphasize tatkaar (footwork) and make the dance audibly engaging.

• Lightweight ghungroos: Great for beginners or practice

• Heavy ghungroos: Preferred by seasoned performers for deeper sound

2. Temple Jewelry Set

Jewelry is a hallmark of the traditional Bharatanatyam costume, typically designed in antique gold finish, echoing sacred temple motifs.

Must-Have Jewelry Includes:

• Maang Tikka – Worn on the forehead, signifies wisdom

• Jhumkas – Bell-shaped earrings that sway with every expression

• Vanki – Snake-shaped armlets for divinity

• Oddiyanam – Ornate waist belt that adds grace

• Chokers & Long Chains – Frame the neck and neckline beautifully

These accessories are not just adornments—they narrate stories and accentuate each gesture.

3. Makeup and Face Accents

Bharatanatyam is rich in facial expressions, and makeup enhances this visual storytelling:

• Bold Kajal/Eyeliner – Defines expressive eye movements

• Red Lipstick & Kumkum – Highlight lips, fingertips, and feet for better stage visibility

• Tilak or Bindi – Spiritual center and focal point of expression

Makeup becomes part of the Bharatanatyam costume, ensuring that even distant audience members can read the dancer’s emotions.

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Hair Accessories: The Finishing Touch

Hair in Bharatanatyam is traditionally styled in a long braid or bun, adorned with symbolic and decorative items:

• Gajra (Jasmine Flowers) – Natural fragrance and divine symbolism

• Chandran & Suryan (Moon & Sun) – Represent balance and cosmic energy

• Pinjara or Hair Nets – Keep the braid tidy while adding detail

This classic look completes the Bharatanatyam costume ensemble and holds spiritual significance.

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Bangles & Hand Ornaments

Hands are essential tools in Bharatanatyam. Adorning them enhances the grace of mudras:

• Kadas or Bangles – Reflect light, add rhythm and elegance

• Finger Rings – Sometimes worn with symbolic stones

• Armlets – Highlight arm movement and postural strength

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Traditional vs. Modern Bharatanatyam Costumes

While rooted in tradition, Bharatanatyam costume designs have evolved with time to meet the needs of modern dancers. Today, students and professionals can choose between traditional silk grandeur or more practical, lightweight styles.

Comparison Table: Traditional vs. Modern Bharatanatyam Costumes

Both styles serve their purpose. What’s important is how the Bharatanatyam costume supports the dancer’s comfort, confidence, and storytelling on stage.

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Custom and Rental Bharatanatyam Costume Solutions

Choosing a Bharatanatyam costume is personal—it must match the dancer’s body, style, role, and event.

🎨 Custom Costumes:

Ideal for arangetrams, competitions, or high-profile performances. Dancers can choose:

• Color schemes that match their choreography

• Styles tailored to comfort and ease of movement

• Matching accessories for a unified look

💡 Rental Costumes:

Perfect for students or occasional performers. Rental options provide:

• Affordability without sacrificing authenticity

• Ready-to-wear, professional designs

• Flexibility in size and color choices

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Care Tips for Bharatanatyam Costumes

Whether owned or rented, keeping your Bharatanatyam costume in good condition ensures it looks new every time you step on stage:

• Store in breathable garment bags

• Iron with care using a low-silk setting

• Keep jewelry in velvet-lined boxes to prevent tarnish

• Air dry after performance to remove sweat and odor

These small efforts preserve both the beauty and the sentiment attached to your dancewear.

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Conclusion: Dress with Purpose, Dance with Passion

A Bharatanatyam costume is a dancer’s sacred armor—woven with devotion, framed with culture, and worn with pride. Every ghungroo, jewel, and pleat carries a deeper meaning. Whether you’re just starting your dance journey or preparing for your 10th performance, the right accessories bring your expression to life.

From the rhythmic jingles of ankle bells to the elegance of a forehead ornament, every piece adds to your performance and your story. Choosing the perfect Bharatanatyam costume is about more than aesthetics—it’s about identity, comfort, and spiritual connection.

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Discover Authentic Bharatanatyam Costumes at Kailasa Kaladhara

At Kailasa Kaladhara, we understand what every dancer needs—grace, tradition, and comfort. We offer handcrafted Bharatanatyam costumes, accessories, custom fittings, and rental options for performers of all ages and stages.

👗 Ready to find your perfect costume?
👉 Visit us at: www.kailasakaladhara.com