In Bharatanatyam communication is done through facial expressions (Bhavabhinaya) and hand gestures Hasthamudra. The sequence of a dance performance is 'Alarippu', 'Jathiswaram', 'Sabdam', 'Varnam', 'Padam' and 'Thilana'. After 'Thilana', with a 'Mangala Slokam' the dance program ends
Normarlly a performance lasts two to two and a half hours. Dancers wear traditional costumes consisting of specially made saris, jewelery and hair ornaments; and specially applied facial and body make-up. The dancers wear a lot of ornaments of shining stones on the neck, ears, hands and head, a jasmone garland in the hair, and foot trinkets and small bells.
