Alta
आलताHindiSay it: aa · la · taa
- aa ee oo ē ō — long vowels: hold them twice as long
The red dye that outlines the hands and feet
CostumeBharatanatyamKuchipudiMohiniyattamOdissi
Meaning
Alta is a red dye painted on the palms, fingertips and soles. It makes the hand gestures and footwork stand out from a distance and is part of the dancer's make-up in most classical styles.
Also written: aalta, mahavar, parani, lac dye