Learn Bharatanatyam mudras, the language of the hands
Mudras (hastas) are how Bharatanatyam tells a story. Learn every single-hand and double-hand gesture, what each one means, and how to use it, along with the eye and head movements that bring expression to life.
From Navatman, New York City’s school for Indian classical dance and music, teaching adults for 20+ years. Cancel anytime.
Mudras look simple until you try to hold them correctly.
- You know the names but your fingers won't cooperate.
- You mix up similar mudras.
- You don't know the slokas or the meanings behind them.
- Your expression feels flat even when your hands are right.
These courses teach each mudra clearly, drill it with repetition, and connect it to the meaning, so it becomes part of your dancing.
How it works
Start your free trial
All mudra and expression courses unlock right away.
Learn single-hand mudras first
Asamyukta hastas, practiced with repetition.
Add double hands and expression
Samyukta hastas, then drishti (eyes) and shiroh (head) bhedas.
Courses on this path
Asamyukta Hastas
The single-hand mudras, with names, meanings and practice.
Samyukta Hastas
The double-hand mudras and how they're used.
Drishti Bhedas
Eye movements that carry expression.
Shiroh Bhedas
The head movements of Bharatanatyam.
Who this is for
- Bharatanatyam beginners learning the basics
- Students preparing for exams or performances
- Dancers working on abhinaya (expression)
- Anyone curious about the meaning behind the gestures
What students say
It's rare to find something like this“I've tried many different studios and Navatman is just unparalleled. The staff are attentive and rigorous in their teaching method. It's rare to find a dance school run in such thoughtful ways.”
— Sanjana
The best and largest community“Sahi really emphasizes techniques that are sustainable and prevent long term injury, while maintaining the intricacies of the art form.”
— Anisha, dancing with Navatman for 5 years
Choose how you learn
Every monthly plan starts with a free 14-day trial. Cancel anytime.
Library
Self-paced. Every recorded step-by-step course in bharatanatyam, kathak, vocal and body conditioning.
Try Library freeStudio
Everything in Library, plus weekly live classes on Zoom, feedback from Navatman teachers, and full item courses.
Try Studio freeStudio Annual
Everything in Studio for a year, about $37.50 a month (45% less than monthly Studio).
Choose AnnualQuestions
How many mudras are there in Bharatanatyam?
The Abhinaya Darpana describes 28 single-hand (asamyukta) and about 24 double-hand (samyukta) hastas. Navatman's courses teach them in order with practice.
What's the difference between asamyukta and samyukta hastas?
Asamyukta hastas use one hand; samyukta hastas use both hands together.
Do I need to know Sanskrit?
No. Each mudra is taught with its name, meaning and use, explained in English.
What do I need to start?
A clear patch of floor about the size of a yoga mat, comfortable clothes you can move in, and a laptop, tablet or phone. No ankle bells, costume or prior training needed.
Do I need a credit card for the free trial?
Yes, checkout asks for a card so your plan can continue after 14 days. You won't be charged during the trial, and you can cancel anytime from your account.
Start speaking with your hands
Start the free trial and learn your first mudras today.