Costume Ideas for Dussehra & Ramlila

Bring the Ramayana to life with these inventive costume ideas for your Ramlila show or Dussehra festivity.

Lord Rama

Attire: A saffron or yellow dhoti paired with a matching sash or scarf draped over the shoulders.
Jewelry: Plain gold-toned bangles, bracelets, and a pendant. A modest crown or headgear (mukut).
Props: A bow (dhanush) and a set of arrows (tarkash) are vital.
Makeup: A calm look, a U-shaped tilak adorning the brow, and delicate eyeliner.

Attire: A graceful and minimalist saree, often seen in hues of peach, coral, or gold.
Jewelry: Floral ornaments (Pushpa Abushan) for Ayodhya scenes, or subtle, minimal adornments during the exile phase.
Hairstyle: Locks styled in a sleek bun or flowing braid, graced with blooms.
Makeup: Elegant, subtle makeup paired with a red bindi and softly lined eyes.

Attire: Much like Rama, a dhoti paired with an angavastram, maybe in a cream or soft orange hue.
Jewelry: Minimalistic jewelry to show his dedication and service.
Props: Wields a bow and arrow, representing his duty as a guardian.
Makeup: A tilak like Rama's, paired with a focused and resolute look.

Attire: A red or orange loincloth (langot) or dhoti, with a sacred thread (janeu) draped across the chest.
Accessories: A monkey mask is crucial. A cloth or rope tail. A basic crown.
Props: A mace (gada) is Hanuman's signature weapon.
Makeup: If not using a mask, face paint can create a monkey-like appearance.

Attire: A majestic dark-hued dhoti (black, navy, or violet) paired with an ornate angavastram.
Jewelry: Elaborate and striking gold adornments—bold necklaces, bracelets, and a regal crown.
Key Feature: Nine extra cardboard heads fanned out behind the lead actor.
Props: A blade or a trident. A bold, curled mustache (authentic or faux).

Attire: Simple brown, red, or orange shorts or dhotis.
Accessories: Monkey masks or face paint, cloth tails clipped on the back.
Props: Miniature toy maces or rods. Others might hold big cardboard "stones" labeled "Ram."
Group Idea: Simple and enjoyable for kids to wear as a group.

Fabrics: Opt for affordable fabrics like cotton for dhotis and sarees, while glossy or brocade materials suit Ravana's attire.
Jewelry: Gold-painted cardboard, beads, and ribbons make perfect DIY crowns and ornaments.
Weapons & Props: Cardboard can be shaped into bows, arrows, maces, or swords, then painted and adorned with foil or glitter.
Makeup: Opt for safe face paint. Apply a base shade, define eyes with kohl, and add a bindi or tilak to turn a basic look into a character outfit.