About us
Three generations at the same cutting table
Raj Sridhar Dance Costumes began in 1950 with Mr. Narayanaswamy, chief costumer at Gemini Studios. Today the third generation of the same family stitches costumes for every Indian classical dance form, alongside temple jewellery and custom orders.
Mr. Narayanaswamy — 1950
A pioneering figure in costume design and tailoring, Mr. Narayanaswamy was chief costumer at Gemini Studios in 1950 and began his own journey in the art in 1955. He costumed legendary South Indian actresses including Vyjayanthimala, Jayalalithaa and Padmini, and his work appeared in films that became milestones of their time. Through years of steady work he came to be regarded as one of the finest Bharatanatyam costume designers of his generation.
Balaraman — learning at eighteen
Inspired by his father, Balaraman joined him at the age of eighteen. He learned measurement, stitching technique and design planning at the bench, then worked alongside his father to carry the family's craft forward. His work went on to appear in iconic films including Chandralekha and Avvaiyar, and he was honoured with the title Natana Udai Alankara Nipunar.
The first shop, and a wider stage
Balaraman opened the family's own shop in Tambaram, where he stitched for dance schools across the city. Word travelled with the dancers, and costumes made here are now worn in the USA, UK, Germany, Canada, Australia, Singapore and Dubai.
Today — the third generation
We handcraft costumes for all Indian classical dance forms, temple jewellery and custom stitching at Meppadu Junction, near Bhavani Pawn Broker. Costumes are also available to wear for a performance or to borrow for inspiration, and every set is cleaned, aired and kept germ-free so it is hygienic to wear the day it reaches you.