Temple Jewellery Set Guide for Bharatanatyam & Kuchipudi
Every piece in a classical temple jewellery set explained, so you know exactly what to rent for a recital or arangetram.
A full temple jewellery set includes the headset (rakodi at the centre, with sun and moon pieces), nethichutti on the parting, jhumka earrings, short and long haram necklaces, the oddiyanam waist belt, bangles, and salangai ankle bells. Together they complete the classical Bharatanatyam or Kuchipudi look.
What’s in a temple jewellery set
Classical temple jewellery is worn in a fixed arrangement. Here’s each piece and where it goes.
Head
- Rakodi — round ornament at the back of the bun.
- Sun & moon (surya & chandra) — placed on either side of the parting.
- Nethichutti — hangs along the centre parting onto the forehead.
Ears, neck and waist
- Jhumkas — bell-shaped earrings, often with side chains (maatal).
- Short haram — choker-length necklace.
- Long haram — longer necklace reaching the chest.
- Oddiyanam — the decorative waist belt that defines the silhouette.
Hands and feet
- Bangles — sets worn on both wrists.
- Salangai — leather-backed ankle bells, tied last (usually rented separately).
Caring for rented jewellery
Temple jewellery is delicate and valued highly, so rentals carry a larger refundable deposit. Keep pieces in the provided box, avoid water and perfume contact, and return every item together.
Planning an arangetram in PCMC? Book the costume and jewellery set together and reserve early.
Frequently asked questions
- What is included in a temple jewellery set?
- Headset with rakodi, sun and moon side pieces, nethichutti, jhumkas, short and long haram, oddiyanam (waist belt), bangles, and often nose and ear ornaments. Salangai (ankle bells) are usually separate.
- What is the rakodi?
- The rakodi is the round ornament worn at the back of the bun, the centrepiece of the headset. The sun (surya) and moon (chandra) pieces sit on either side of the parting.
- Can I rent jewellery without the costume?
- Yes. Jewellery sets can be rented on their own, though many customers book the costume and jewellery together for arangetrams.
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