Kathak, a traditional dance of North India, is blend of Hindu and Muslim culture. This mixture of culture is reflected in its costumes. The costumes are often similar to that shown in the
Mughal Miniature Paintings.
Kathak costume for the female dancer comprises of a long pleated ‘kurta’ (shirt) worn over pyjama, a brocaded cap and a ‘dupatta’ (veil). Some dancer wear a ‘ghaghara’ (long skirt) and a ‘choli’ (blouse). The male dancer wears either ‘dhoti’ (loincloth) and ‘kurta’ (shirt) or a long shirt over a pyjama. The fabric used for the costume is light, usually silk.
The jewelry consists of bangles, earrings, a decorative belt, and ornaments worn on the hair and fingers. The major ornament however is the ‘ghungaroo’, chain of about 100-150 tiny bells worn over the ankles. ‘Ghungaroo’ is used for producing sounds synchronous with the rhythm produced by the percussion instruments like the ‘tabla’.
