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

The index finger, the middle finger and the thumb bent forward in gentle contact with each other, holding the other two fingers straight.
Some signs shown in the Hamsaasya mode using both palms are :
The pupil, softness, dust, white coloured, blue, red, pathos and locks of hair.

One palm indicates :
Beginning of the year, hair, and folds of the stomach area.