In Indian television, costumes do more than create a visual identity; they anchor characters in history, culture, and emotion. For actors playing mythological and historical roles, traditional Indian attire becomes not just a wardrobe requirement but a tool that enhances performance and emotional depth. Stars from popular shows like Tenali Rama and Veer Hanuman reflect on how slipping into traditional clothing transforms their portrayal and connects them more intimately with their characters.
Krishna Bharadwaj, who essays the iconic role of Tenali Rama in Tenali Rama, believes costumes are crucial for authenticity. “You can’t truly bring Tenali Rama to life without immersing yourself in the cultural fabric of the era and the costume plays a pivotal role in that. From the sacred tilak on the forehead to the drape of the dhoti, every element grounds me in that world. It transforms not just my appearance, but my posture, how I speak, even my energy. In fact, slipping into traditional attire makes it far easier to set Krishna aside and fully become Tenali.”
Echoing a similar sentiment, Nikkhil Arya, who plays Kotwal in the same show, shared how traditional attire deepens his connection with the character. “The traditional attire feels like an extension of the character, it’s almost a performance tool in itself. The layers, the elegance, the sheer grandeur of it all help me step into the role with ease. Even the language begins to resonate more deeply once I’m in costume; it anchors the performance in authenticity and makes the entire portrayal feel grounded and real. Of course, my outfit is among the heaviest on set, but despite the physical demands, the experience is incredibly fulfilling.”
Aditya Redij, portraying King Krishnadevraya in Veer Hanuman, finds strength and power in his royal costume. “Wearing the traditional Indian costume for the role of Maharaj Krishnadevraya truly helps me get into character. Initially, it was a bit challenging to shift from modern clothing to the heavy royal attire, with the jewelry, the crown, and all the layers. But over time, I got used to it, and now I genuinely feel it adds immense value to my performance. The moment I put on the costume, I begin to feel the power and responsibility that a king like Krishnadevraya would have carried. It changes my body language, my mindset, and even the way I speak. It connects me more deeply to the time and culture he belonged to. So yes, traditional attire doesn’t just enhance the visual appeal, it helps me truly feel like a king, and that sense of authenticity brings a lot of honesty to the way I portray him on screen.”
Hunar Hali , who essays Queen Kaikeyi in the same series, admitted that while the grandeur of ethnic wear initially felt overwhelming, it soon became integral to her performance. “At first, shooting long hours in sarees, heavy ethnic wear, and especially the grand headgear felt physically demanding. But that headpiece isn’t just an accessory, it carries the weight of Kaikeyi’s pride, status, and inner turmoil. Over time, I’ve come to embrace how much it adds to the performance. Kaikeyi is a character who lives through intense emotional highs and lows, and traditional clothing brings an elegance and authenticity to the role.”