An Arangetram is a significant milestone in the career of a classical Indian dancer, particularly in Bharatanatyam. The term "Arangetram" literally means "ascending the stage" (from the Tamil words "Arangam" meaning stage and "Etram" meaning climbing). This event marks the dancer's debut public performance after years of rigorous training under a guru (teacher). It signifies that the dancer is now proficient in the art form and is ready to perform solo on stage.
The Arangetram Planning Checklist (Timeline)
Planning an Arangetram can be overwhelming. Here is a timeline to ensure you have the perfect costume and accessories ready for the big day.
6 Months Before: The Big Decisions
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Fix the Date & Venue: Ensure the stage has proper flooring for dance.
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Book the Orchestra: Vocalists and percussionists get booked months in advance.
3-4 Months Before: The Costume (Most Critical)
An Arangetram costume is an asset that lasts for years.
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Order the Costume: Custom stitching requires detailed measurements. Browse our Custom Silk Costumes here.
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Choose the Fabric: We recommend Pure Dharmavaram Silk for Arangetrams because it shines brilliantly under stage lights and withstands heavy movement.
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Pick the Color: Traditional combinations like MS Blue, Chili Red, or Mango Yellow are timeless favorites.
2 Months Before: The Jewellery
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Order Temple Jewellery: You need a full "Temple Set" including the Headset (Rakodi/Moon/Sun), Long Chain (Haram), and Belt (Oddiyanam).
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Check the Fit: Ensure the belt fits tightly over the costume. Shop Authentic Temple Jewellery Sets.
1 Month Before: The Essentials
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Salangai (Ghungroos): Buy a new pair of leather-strap Salangai. Wear them during practice to "break them in" and avoid blisters on the main day.
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Makeup Trial: Schedule a trial with your makeup artist.
Key Aspects of an Arangetram:
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Training and Preparation:
- The dancer undergoes years of disciplined training in Bharatanatyam, learning various aspects like basic steps (adavu), hand gestures (mudras), facial expressions (abhinaya), and intricate dance compositions (jathiswaram, varnam, etc.).
- The guru decides when the student is ready for the Arangetram, usually after 7 to 10 years of dedicated practice.
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Performance:
- The Arangetram typically includes a full repertoire of Bharatanatyam items, beginning with an invocation (pushpanjali or alarippu) and progressing through various compositions like jathiswaram, varnam (the centerpiece of the performance), padams, and ending with a thillana.
- The performance can last for several hours, showcasing the dancer's technical skill, stamina, and expressive abilities.
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Dance Costume and Jewellery:
- The dancer wears a traditional Bharatanatyam costume, often custom-made, consisting of silk sarees or costumes with pleats, which fan out during certain movements.
- Temple jewellery, including Headset, necklaces, earrings, Mango Haram , and belts, are worn, along with a headpiece and bells (salangai) on the ankles.
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Significance:
- An Arangetram is not just a test of skill but a rite of passage, celebrating the dancer's dedication and the guru's guidance.
- It is often attended by family, friends, and connoisseurs of dance, and sometimes includes dignitaries or special guests.
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Post-Arangetram:
- After the Arangetram, the dancer may pursue a professional career in dance, continue advanced training, or teach the art form to others.
Since you are involved in creating dance costumes and original temple jewellery, Arangetrams might be a significant aspect of your work, as these events require carefully crafted costumes and authentic jewellery.
Need help measuring for your Arangetram costume? Watch our measurement guide on YouTube or WhatsApp Shanthi Tailors at +91 90033 26517 for a personal consultation.
