But mainly it has been a case of the same old wine being sampled in new bottles. However, there have been many attempts to introduce ballets on modern themes and similar other innovations. These have been, so far, few and far between although some of them have been real artistic successes. Even in matters of costume, stage, lighting and musical accompaniment there have been many changes in consonance with the various factors that influence the dance stage of today.

Years ago Bharatanatyam dancers were wearing a costume made up of an inner satin pyjama over which was tied a gorgeous saree draping up to the knee. This costume gave the dancer a firm back and waist-line and complete freedom of movement. Some of the modern audience may think that such a costume is not very artistic in as much as it makes for rather ungainly body lines. The new Bharata Natyam costume which has come into vogue since the last 50 years is designed like a 'dhoti' with beautiful central pleats reaching a little below the knee. Such a costume is beautiful to look at, provided it is worn by a well-framed person as it aims to bring out in sharp outline the contours of the body of the dancer.

These costumes are reminiscent of those of the figures and figurines found in some of the ancient temples of India. These have, however, become too common today with the result that we see today a complete change of Bharata Natyam costumes. In Kathakali, the traditional costumes and make-up are worn even today, specially by those Kathakali actors who take part in the professional dance-dramas in Kerala. But some of the Kathakali dancers of today have changed their costumes and make-up to suit the modern stage.