Classical Indian dances performed in Sungai Petani, Kedah, captivate audiences not only with graceful movements but also with the stunning traditional costumes worn by the dancers. These costumes play a significant role in expressing the beauty of the dance and the cultural symbolism of the Indian community. Female dancers typically wear saris adorned with golden embroidery and traditional jewelry such as necklaces, bangles, earrings, and headpieces known as maang tikka. Bright colors like red, yellow, and green are often used, symbolizing joy, fertility, and strength. Male dancers, on the other hand, wear dhoti or comfortable dance costumes complemented with decorative elements to enhance the character of their performance.

A study by Krishnan (2020) emphasizes that costumes in classical Indian dance in Malaysia, including those in Sungai Petani, serve not only as aesthetic elements but also as a medium of cultural communication. Each element of the costume—from its colors to the accessories—carries symbolic meaning closely related to the dance’s theme, characters, and Indian mythology. In Sungai Petani, the diversity of local culture has also influenced the adaptation of these costumes, making them more unique and suited to the Malaysian context.

Traditional musical instruments such as the tabla, mridangam, sitar, and harmonium are used. Each of these instruments plays a crucial role in creating rhythm and a profound atmosphere that aligns with the expressive movements of the dance. Additionally, elements such as colorful traditional attire, gold jewelry, and dramatic makeup are integral to the performance. For instance, Bharatanatyam dancers wear silk saris adorned with "ghungroo" (ankle bells) that produce rhythmic sounds as they dance.

Classical Indian dance performances in Sungai Petani, Kedah, embody an artistic fusion of Indian traditions with local elements. Forms such as Bharatanatyam, Odissi, and Kathak are frequently performed during cultural events, religious festivals like Deepavali, or local arts programs. These performances typically involve a combination of graceful hand gestures (mudras), facial expressions (abhinaya), and rhythmic footwork in sync with traditional Indian music.

Dancers often wear vibrant costumes adorned with gold jewellery and jasmine flowers, making the performance both aesthetic and symbolic. In each performance, the dance movements convey specific narratives, often based on Hindu epics such as the Ramayana or Mahabharata. These narratives are brought to life through a combination of expressive gestures, rhythmic precision, and evocative storytelling, creating a mesmerizing spectacle that bridges art and spirituality.

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