Part of: Miscellaneous Indian Gk set 56

Which of the following are Assamyuta mudras?

Category: Miscellaneous Indian Gk

Hint: Recall the specific mudras that involve the use of both hands.

Correct Answer: D) Only (A) & (B).

Exam Relevance: UPSC, SSC, Bank PO, Civil Services

Difficulty: Moderate

Explanations:

In Indian classical dance, mudras are hand gestures that are used to convey meaning and emotion. These gestures are an essential part of the dance form and are used to express various ideas, emotions, and stories. Mudras can be broadly classified into two categories: Asamyuta mudras and Assamyuta mudras.

Asamyuta mudras are those that involve the use of a single hand. These mudras are used to express a wide range of emotions and ideas, and they are often used in conjunction with other gestures and movements to create a complete expression. Examples of Asamyuta mudras include the "Pataka" (flag), "Tripataka" (three flags), and "Kartari Mukha" (scissor mouth).

Assamyuta mudras, on the other hand, involve the use of both hands. These mudras are more complex and are used to convey more intricate and detailed expressions. They are often used to depict specific scenes, characters, or actions in a dance performance. Examples of Assamyuta mudras include "Chatura" and "Mayura."

The Chatura mudra is formed by placing the palms of both hands together, with the fingers spread apart. This mudra is often used to depict the idea of creation or the emergence of something new. The Mayura mudra is formed by placing the palms of both hands together, with the fingers interlocked. This mudra is often used to depict the idea of a peacock or to express a sense of pride and beauty.

It is important to note that while Anjali is a mudra that involves both hands, it is not classified as an Assamyuta mudra. The Anjali mudra is formed by placing the palms of both hands together in front of the chest, and it is often used to express a sense of respect, greeting, or prayer. This mudra is more commonly associated with Asamyuta mudras, as it does not involve the complex interlocking of fingers that is characteristic of Assamyuta mudras.

Therefore, the correct answer is that only Chatura and Mayura are Assamyuta mudras, as they involve the use of both hands in a specific and complex manner. This understanding of the classification of mudras is crucial for anyone studying or performing Indian classical dance, as it helps in the accurate expression of various emotions and ideas through the use of hand gestures.

Option Analysis:
  • Option A: Chatura is an Assamyuta mudra, involving both hands. This is correct, but it is not the complete answer.
  • Option B: Mayura is also an Assamyuta mudra, involving both hands. This is correct, but it is not the complete answer.
  • Option C: Anjali is a mudra, but it is not an Assamyuta mudra. It involves both hands but is not classified as Assamyuta.
  • Option D: This option correctly identifies Chatura and Mayura as Assamyuta mudras, which involve the use of both hands. This is the correct answer.

Mnemonic: A-M for Assamyuta: Chatura and Mayura

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