Description of Traditional Bharatanatyam Costumes
Bharatanatyam, one of India’s oldest classical dance forms, is renowned not only for its expressive movements but also for its vibrant and intricate costumes. These costumes play a crucial role in enhancing the visual appeal of the dance, helping to convey stories and emotions more effectively. Let’s delve into the various types of Bharatanatyam costumes, the materials used, and their significance.
Types of Costumes :
1. Traditional Sarees:
- Description: Traditional Bharatanatyam costumes often consist of a specially designed saree. These sarees are typically vibrant, with rich colours and intricate borders that add to the dancer’s grace and poise.
- Variety and Design: Traditional sarees for Bharatanatyam usually have bold and contrasting colours like red, green, blue, and gold. The saree is pleated at the front, allowing for fluid movements and an elegant appearance.
- Performance Look: When adorned with jewelry and properly draped, these sarees enhance the dancer’s movements, making each gesture more pronounced and captivating.
2. Readymade Costumes:
- Description: For convenience, many dancers opt for readymade Bharatanatyam costumes. These costumes are pre-stitched to resemble the traditional saree drape, making them easier to wear and manage during performances.
- Variety and Design: Readymade costumes often come in similar vibrant colors and designs as traditional sarees, with added convenience. They include a fitted blouse, dhoti-style pants, and a fan-like pleated section in the front.
- Performance Look: These costumes provide the same elegance and visual appeal as traditional sarees, ensuring the dancer’s movements remain fluid and expressive.
Materials Used
1. Silk:
- Description: Silk is the most commonly used material for Bharatanatyam costumes. It offers a luxurious feel and a lustrous appearance, which is ideal for the grandeur of classical dance.
- Benefits: Silk sarees are durable and drape beautifully, adding a touch of elegance to the performance. The sheen of silk enhances the dancer’s movements under stage lights, making each gesture more pronounced.
2. Cotton:
- Description: Cotton is another material used, especially in practice costumes or for performances that require lighter attire.
- Benefits: Cotton is breathable and comfortable, allowing for ease of movement. It is also easier to maintain and can be a practical choice for long practice sessions.
Importance of Choosing the Right Pattern
1. Matching the Costume to the Performance:
- Significance: The pattern and design of the costume should complement the theme of the performance. For instance, mythological stories might require more traditional and elaborate patterns, while modern interpretations can experiment with simpler designs.
- Impact: The right pattern enhances the storytelling aspect of Bharatanatyam. It ensures that the costume not only looks good but also supports the narrative being portrayed.
2. Highlighting Movements:
- Significance: Certain patterns and designs are more effective in highlighting the dancer’s movements. For example, the fan-like pleats in the front of the costume open beautifully with leg movements, emphasising the intricate footwork typical of Bharatanatyam.
- Impact: Properly chosen patterns can make the dance more visually striking, drawing attention to the precise and graceful movements of the dancer.
Insight into the Making of Bharatanatyam Costumes
1. Craftsmanship:
- Process: Making a Bharatanatyam costume involves skilled craftsmanship. Traditional sarees are often handwoven, with artisans dedicating considerable time to create intricate designs and borders.
- Customisation: Many costumes are custom-made to fit the dancer perfectly. This ensures that the attire complements the dancer’s body movements and adds to the overall aesthetics.
2. Attention to Detail:
- Border and Pallu: Detailed Pallu and embellishments are common in Bharatanatyam costumes. These decorations not only add beauty but also reflect the cultural richness of the dance form.
- Durability: Given the rigorous nature of the dance, costumes are made to be durable and withstand the strain of frequent use.
In conclusion, the traditional Bharatanatyam costume is a masterpiece of design, color, and craftsmanship. Whether opting for a traditional saree or a readymade costume, the right choice of material and pattern is essential to enhance the dancer’s performance. The costume not only adds to the visual splendor of Bharatanatyam but also plays a vital role in conveying the art form’s intricate and expressive nature. Thanks for Visiting our page
