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

Inserting the thumb between the index and middle finger and curling all other fingers into the palm is Katakamugha.

Some signs shown in the Katakamukha mode using both palms indicate :
A shortened gown or a soldier’s jacket, servant, a brave person, a wrestler, releasing the arrow and a bird.