HASTA MUDRAS
The Speaking Hands
Single Hand Gestures (असंयुक्त हस्त मुद्राएँ)
Pataka, Tripataka, Ardhapataka, Kartarimukha, Mayura, Ardhachandra, Arala, Shukatunda, Mushti, Shikhar, Kapitth, Katakamukha, Suchi, Candrakala, Padmakosh, Sarpshirsh, Mragshirsh, Sinhamukha, Kangula, Alapadma, Chatur, Bhramar, Hansasya, Hansapaksha, Sandansh, Mukul, Tamrachud and Trishul.
Combined Hand Gestures
(संयुक्त हस्त मुद्राएँ)
Anjali, Kapot, Karkat, Swastik, Dola, Pushpaput, Utsang, Shivlinga, Katkavardhan, Kartariswastik, Shakat, Shankh, Chakra, Samput, Pash, Kilak, Matsay, Kurma, Varah, Garuda, Nagbandh, Khatva, Bherund.
Plethora of Mudras
अथेदानीन्तु हस्तानां लक्षणं प्रोच्यते मया ॥८७||
असंयुताःसंयुताश्च हस्तद्वेधा निरूपिता ।
तत्रासंयुतहस्तानामादौ लक्षणमुच्यते ॥८८॥
Introduction
Indian Classical dance form “Kathak” is totally based on gestures and postures of body. Body parts like eyes, hands and feet play major role in expressing this dance form. Hands play a major role for expression, in our body parts for expressing our body language as well. Our hands are a source of tremendous power. With such profound dexterity, sensitivity, and utility, the human hands may be one of our most defining features as a species. Hands tell the story of our mood or state of mind. When we feel angry, a clenched fist; when anxious, fidgeting fingers. Even plants and animals respond to the subtle nuances of our touch.
