What are the hand mudras used in Kathak?

In Kathak, hand mudras (gestures) play a vital role in conveying emotions, telling stories, and adding aesthetic value. Here are some common hand mudras used in Kathak: *Basic Mudras:* 1. *Mayura (Peacock)*: Fingers extended, thumb bent. 2. *Pataka (Flag)*: Thumb and little finger extended. 3. *Tripataka (Three-Leafed)*: Thumb, index, and middle fingers extended. 4. *Ardhapataka (Half-Flag)*: Thumb and index finger extended. 5. *Kapitta (Monkey Face)*: Thumb and index finger bent. 

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In Kathak, hand mudras (gestures) play a vital role in conveying emotions, telling stories, and adding aesthetic value. Here are some common hand mudras used in Kathak: *Basic Mudras:* 1. *Mayura (Peacock)*: Fingers extended, thumb bent. 2. *Pataka (Flag)*: Thumb and little finger extended. 3. *Tripataka (Three-Leafed)*: Thumb, index, and middle fingers extended. 4. *Ardhapataka (Half-Flag)*: Thumb and index finger extended. 5. *Kapitta (Monkey Face)*: Thumb and index finger bent. *Emotive Mudras:* 1. *Shikhara (Crown)*: Fingers intertwined, thumbs up. 2. *Udvahita (Raised)*: Palm up, fingers extended. 3. *Adhomukha (Downward-Facing)*: Palm down, fingers extended. 4. *Katakamukha (Scissors)*: Index and middle fingers crossed. 5. *Suchi (Needle)*: Index finger extended, others folded. *Narrative Mudras:* 1. *Hamsasya (Swan)*: Thumb and little finger extended. 2. *Padma (Lotus)*: Fingers cupped, thumb bent. 3. *Mriga (Deer)*: Index and middle fingers extended. 4. *Nagabandha (Snake Hood)*: Fingers curled, thumb up. 5. *Vajra (Thunderbolt)*: Fingers clenched, thumb up. *Other Mudras:* 1. *Anjali (Offering)*: Palms joined. 2. *Namaskara (Greeting)*: Palms joined, fingers interlocked. 3. *Prashadbhuja (Blessing)*: Palm up, fingers extended. These mudras are used in various combinations to convey emotions, tell stories, and enhance the overall aesthetic of the performance. Would you like information on: 1. Kathak's facial expressions (bhava)? 2. Eye movements (drishti)? 3. Footwork (tatkar) and rhythmic patterns? 4. Costumes and accessories? 5. Kathak's historical and cultural context? read less