Jewellery for Bharathanatyam

Each of the classical dance style has its own special jewellery.
Bharathanatyam dancers use temple jewellery which are typically
studded with a lot of red stones, pearls and a sprinkling of
green and white stones.Originally the ornaments were made in gold,
but later because of the cost aspect and the weight, the temple
jewellery was made in silver coated with gold. these original pieces
are still available but can be expensive. Today imitation pieces
which are affordable are wisely used. It is best to avoid white
stoned jewellery for concerts.

The Typical Jewellery pieces used by a Bharathanatyam dancer include:-
Head: Head set, Sun and Moon, Rakudi,  etc
Ears: Ear studs, Jimmiki, Mattal
Nose: Nose ring, Nose stud and Bullaku ( optional)
Hands: Bangles, Vanki
Waist: Belt or odiyanam
Feet: anklet and the bells
Hair: Usually plaited and fixed with the black and gold kunjalam.
Small pendants may be fixed onto the plat.

All the jewels need to be fitted firmly with thread,
pins or stitched to ensure they do not move during the recital.

"The costume, jewellery, make-up and stage decoration are
aimed at enhancing the beauty, charm and the aesthetic value
of the dance performance. Yes, the jewellery worn by a dancer
have a special significance:
The 'chandran' and 'sooryan'(moon and sun) worn on the
top of the head signify that their beauty and grace have descended upon the dancer.
The 'thalai saaman' (chutti) emphasis es the line of the forehead.
The 'maatal' (worn covering the ear) is to protect the eardrums.
The 'Maanga malai' worn on the chest above the navel prevents pulmonary disorders.
The oddiyanam (belt worn around the waist) keeps the spinal chord straight.
Bangles protect the wrists, rings encourage philanthropy and anklets give
strength to the ankles of the dancer."

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