The Timeless Allure of Temple Jewellery for Bharatanatyam Dancers
Bharatanatyam, the classical dance form of Tamil Nadu, is not only a celebration of movement and rhythm but also a visual feast, thanks in part to the exquisite temple jewellery that adorns the dancers. This traditional jewellery, with its intricate designs and spiritual significance, has been an integral part of the dance form for centuries, adding to the overall aesthetic and storytelling.
Crafted with Devotion: The Making of Temple Jewellery Temple jewellery is traditionally handcrafted by skilled artisans who have passed down their techniques through generations. We at Shanthi tailors have our own artisan's family working with us for decades. The process begins with pure silver, which is meticulously shaped into various ornaments. Once the silver base is ready, it is coated with 24-karat gold leaf, a technique known as ‘gilding’, which gives the jewellery its characteristic rich golden sheen.
Designs that Echo the Temples The motifs in temple jewellery are deeply rooted in the iconography found in South Indian temples. Common designs include gods and goddesses, lotus flowers, peacocks, and other symbols that are revered in Hindu mythology. These motifs are not just decorative; they are symbolic of the spiritual journey of the dancer and the stories they narrate through their performance.
Jewellery Pieces that Complement the Dance A full set of temple jewellery for Bharatanatyam includes several key pieces:
- Headset (Thalaisamaan): This includes the headband (Nethi Chutti), sun (Surya) and moon (Chandra) pieces, and the hair plaits (Kunjam).
- Necklaces and Harams: Ranging from chokers (Choker) to long chains (Haaram), these are layered to create depth.
- Ear Ornaments: Jhumkas (bell-shaped earrings) and ear chains (Mattal) frame the face beautifully.
- Armlets (Vanki): Worn on the upper arm, they are designed to stay in place during vigorous movements.
- Bangles and Bracelets: These adorn the wrists and complement the hand gestures (Mudras).
- Waist Belt (Oddiyanam): This accentuates the waist movements and holds the costume in place.
The Significance of Temple Jewellery Beyond its beauty, temple jewellery is believed to have divine power, offering protection to the wearer and adding a sacred dimension to the dance. It is a symbol of dedication to the art form and the gods to whom the dance is often dedicated.
Preserving Tradition in Modern Times While the popularity of contemporary designs has grown, the demand for original temple jewellery remains strong among classical dancers who wish to maintain the authenticity of Bharatanatyam. It’s not just an accessory; it’s a piece of heritage that dancers wear with pride.
In conclusion, temple jewellery is much more than an embellishment for Bharatanatyam dancers; it is a link to the past, a testament to the craftsmanship of artisans, and an essential element that completes the transformation of the dancer into a storyteller. As they step onto the stage, each piece of jewellery adds to the narrative, making the dance a truly divine experience. Get these Original handmade temple jewellery for your own renowned Shanthi tailors.
