There are 24 basic mudras or hand signs mentioned in the classical text on Kerala dance, Hasthalakshanadeepika. These Mudras are used in the classical dance dramas of Kerala, like Kathakali, Kutiyattam, Nangiarkoothu, Mohiniyattam and Ottanthullal.

The index finger bent forward and the other fingers held straight is Bhramara.

Some signs shown in the Bhramara mode using both palms indicate :

Wings, song, water, umbrella and the ear of elephant.

Using one palm indicates:

A divine person, coming into being, fear and weeping.