Rathi Karthigesu is one of the early proponents of Indian classical dance in Singapore. She learned Bharatanatyam through her association with the Indian Fine Arts Society, and followed it up with other forms of Indian classical dance. She is well-known for her Bharatanatyam performances and participation in various dance-dramas in the 1960s and 70s. This platter was presented to her after a performance at the Sri Sarada Sangha in Kuala Lumpur.
