MUMBAI: Traditional Indian costumes are more than just wardrobe choices, they are deeply woven into the cultural and emotional fabric of storytelling. On Sony SAB, where characters often draw inspiration from India’s rich heritage, donning Bharatiya paramparik attire isn’t merely a visual element; it becomes a bridge between the performer and their persona. Actors from the channel’s popular shows; Tenali Rama - Aditya Redij, Krishna Bharadwaj, Nikkhil Arya and Veer Hanuman - Hunar Hali and Arav Chaudharry open up about the power of traditional costumes and how it shapes their screen presence and emotional depth.
Krishna Bharadwaj, who essays the role of Tenali in Tenali Rama, said, “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.”
Nikkhil Arya, who essays the role of Kotwal in Tenali Rama, shared, “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, who essays the role of King Krishnadevraya in Veer Hanuman, shared, “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 plays the role of Queen Kaikeyi in Veer Hanuman shared, “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.”
Arav Chowdharry, who plays the role of Kesari in Veer Hanuman, said, “Traditional attire brings a certain nobility and weight to your presence. Especially in mythological roles, you’re not just wearing a costume, you’re wearing history. For Kesari, the regal look is an extension of his strength and devotion. When I put on the outfit, I don’t feel like I’m playing him, I’m him.”
Watch Tenali Rama and Veer Hanuman, every Monday to Saturday only on Sony SAB
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