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

Holding the index and the middle finger straight, folding the ring and little finger inside the palm and placing the thumb over them is Kapithaka.

Kapithaka using both palms indicates:
Net, doubt, feather, drink, touch, return, posterior, descend and footsteps.