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The Significance of Mudras in Bharatanatyam

Description: Mudras are an integral part of Bharatanatyam, a classical Indian dance form. They are hand gestures that convey emotions, ideas, and stories. This quiz tests your knowledge about the significance of mudras in Bharatanatyam.
Number of Questions: 15
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Tags: bharatanatyam mudras indian dance classical dance
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What is the primary purpose of mudras in Bharatanatyam?

  1. To convey emotions and ideas

  2. To add grace and beauty to the dance

  3. To tell stories and narratives

  4. To create a connection between the dancer and the audience


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

Mudras are primarily used in Bharatanatyam to convey emotions, ideas, and stories. They are a way for the dancer to communicate with the audience and express the various aspects of the dance.

How many mudras are there in Bharatanatyam?

  1. 28

  2. 108

  3. 200

  4. There is no fixed number


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

There is no fixed number of mudras in Bharatanatyam. Different sources mention different numbers, ranging from 28 to 200. The actual number of mudras used in a dance depends on the choreographer and the theme of the dance.

Which mudra is known as the "dance of Shiva"?

  1. Natyahasta

  2. Ardhachandra

  3. Tribhangi

  4. Tandava


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The Tandava mudra is known as the "dance of Shiva". It is a vigorous and powerful mudra that represents Shiva's cosmic dance of creation, preservation, and destruction.

What is the meaning of the Abhaya mudra?

  1. Fearlessness

  2. Protection

  3. Blessing

  4. Welcome


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The Abhaya mudra is a gesture of fearlessness. It is performed with the palm facing outward and the fingers extended. This mudra is often used in Bharatanatyam to convey a sense of security and protection.

Which mudra is used to represent the lotus flower?

  1. Padmasana

  2. Padma Kosha

  3. Padma Vyuha

  4. Padma Hasta


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The Padma Hasta mudra is used to represent the lotus flower. It is performed with the fingers and thumb joined together to form a lotus bud. This mudra is often used in Bharatanatyam to symbolize purity, beauty, and enlightenment.

What is the significance of the Hasta mudras in Bharatanatyam?

  1. They convey emotions and ideas

  2. They add grace and beauty to the dance

  3. They help the dancer to tell stories

  4. All of the above


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Hasta mudras in Bharatanatyam serve multiple purposes. They convey emotions and ideas, add grace and beauty to the dance, and help the dancer to tell stories. They are an integral part of the dance form and contribute to its expressive and communicative nature.

Which mudra is used to represent the sun?

  1. Surya Mudra

  2. Chandra Mudra

  3. Agni Mudra

  4. Vayu Mudra


Correct Option: A
Explanation:

The Surya Mudra is used to represent the sun. It is performed with the ring finger and thumb touching, while the other fingers are extended. This mudra is often used in Bharatanatyam to symbolize energy, vitality, and power.

What is the meaning of the Namaste mudra?

  1. Salutation

  2. Respect

  3. Gratitude

  4. All of the above


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The Namaste mudra is a gesture of salutation, respect, and gratitude. It is performed with the palms pressed together in front of the chest. This mudra is often used in Bharatanatyam to greet the audience, show respect to the guru, or express gratitude for the opportunity to perform.

Which mudra is used to represent the moon?

  1. Surya Mudra

  2. Chandra Mudra

  3. Agni Mudra

  4. Vayu Mudra


Correct Option: B
Explanation:

The Chandra Mudra is used to represent the moon. It is performed with the little finger and thumb touching, while the other fingers are extended. This mudra is often used in Bharatanatyam to symbolize coolness, serenity, and peace.

What is the significance of the Hasta mudras in Bharatanatyam?

  1. They convey emotions and ideas

  2. They add grace and beauty to the dance

  3. They help the dancer to tell stories

  4. All of the above


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Hasta mudras in Bharatanatyam serve multiple purposes. They convey emotions and ideas, add grace and beauty to the dance, and help the dancer to tell stories. They are an integral part of the dance form and contribute to its expressive and communicative nature.

Which mudra is used to represent the wind?

  1. Surya Mudra

  2. Chandra Mudra

  3. Agni Mudra

  4. Vayu Mudra


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The Vayu Mudra is used to represent the wind. It is performed with the index finger and thumb touching, while the other fingers are extended. This mudra is often used in Bharatanatyam to symbolize movement, energy, and freedom.

What is the meaning of the Shikhara mudra?

  1. Mountain peak

  2. Victory

  3. Power

  4. All of the above


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The Shikhara mudra is a gesture of mountain peak, victory, and power. It is performed with the hands raised above the head, with the fingers pointing upward. This mudra is often used in Bharatanatyam to symbolize strength, determination, and achievement.

Which mudra is used to represent the fire?

  1. Surya Mudra

  2. Chandra Mudra

  3. Agni Mudra

  4. Vayu Mudra


Correct Option: C
Explanation:

The Agni Mudra is used to represent the fire. It is performed with the middle finger and thumb touching, while the other fingers are extended. This mudra is often used in Bharatanatyam to symbolize energy, passion, and transformation.

What is the significance of the Hasta mudras in Bharatanatyam?

  1. They convey emotions and ideas

  2. They add grace and beauty to the dance

  3. They help the dancer to tell stories

  4. All of the above


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

Hasta mudras in Bharatanatyam serve multiple purposes. They convey emotions and ideas, add grace and beauty to the dance, and help the dancer to tell stories. They are an integral part of the dance form and contribute to its expressive and communicative nature.

Which mudra is used to represent the water?

  1. Surya Mudra

  2. Chandra Mudra

  3. Agni Mudra

  4. Varuna Mudra


Correct Option: D
Explanation:

The Varuna Mudra is used to represent the water. It is performed with the little finger and thumb touching, while the other fingers are extended. This mudra is often used in Bharatanatyam to symbolize purity, fluidity, and life.

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