The Art of Adornment: Accessories in Indian Dance

The maang tikka is a traditional head ornament worn by female dancers in Bharatanatyam. It is a piece of jewelry that hangs from the center of the forehead and is often adorned with precious stones or beads.

Ghungroo are the anklets worn by male dancers in Kathak. They are made of a series of small metal bells that jingle when the dancer moves.

The kada is a traditional hand ornament worn by dancers in Odissi. It is a thick metal bangle that is worn on the upper arm.

The kamarbandh is a traditional waist ornament worn by female dancers in Kuchipudi. It is a long, decorative belt that is tied around the waist.

The choker is a traditional neck ornament worn by male dancers in Kathakali. It is a tight-fitting necklace that is often made of gold or silver.

The borla is a traditional head ornament worn by female dancers in Manipuri. It is a conical-shaped ornament that is made of gold or silver and is often adorned with precious stones or beads.

Bracelets are the traditional hand ornaments worn by dancers in Mohiniyattam. They are usually made of gold or silver and are often adorned with precious stones or beads.

The patta is a traditional waist ornament worn by male dancers in Odissi. It is a long, decorative belt that is tied around the waist.

The necklace is a traditional neck ornament worn by female dancers in Bharatanatyam. It is usually made of gold or silver and is often adorned with precious stones or beads.

The mukut is a traditional head ornament worn by male dancers in Kathakali. It is a tall, conical-shaped ornament that is made of gold or silver and is often adorned with precious stones or beads.

Bangles are the traditional hand ornaments worn by dancers in Kuchipudi. They are usually made of gold or silver and are often adorned with precious stones or beads.

The oddiyanam is a traditional waist ornament worn by female dancers in Kathak. It is a long, decorative belt that is tied around the waist.

The pendant is a traditional neck ornament worn by male dancers in Odissi. It is usually made of gold or silver and is often adorned with precious stones or beads.

The jhumka is a traditional head ornament worn by female dancers in Mohiniyattam. It is a pair of earrings that are usually made of gold or silver and are often adorned with precious stones or beads.