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Contents: Foreword. 1. Author s Note. 2. Mudra in theatre and in the rituals. 3. Karadipika. 4. Hastalaksanadipika. 5. The basic Mudras of Hastalaksanadipika some observations. 6. System of notation. 7. Kutiyattam - Sanskrit theatre of Kerala. 8. Ramayana Samksepam. 9. Ramayanam Kutiyattam. 10. Ramayana Samksepam - Attaprakaram - introduction. 11. Ramayana Samksepam - Attaprakaram. 12. Ramayana Samksepam - Attaprakaram with notations of Mudras. 13. Nama Mudra (Hand gesture for name). 14. Notations of Mudras. 15. The origin of Kathakali. 16. Abhinaya in Kathakali. 17. Hastha Mudra in Kathakali. 18a. Notations of the Hastamudras - Part One. 18b. Notations of the Hastamudras - Part two. 19. Ilakiyattam. 20. The Heritage of Devadasi Dance. 21. The Danseuses of Kerala. 22. Nannyar Kuttu. 23. Tiruvatirakali. 24. Mohiniyattam. 25. The technique. 26. Hastalaksanadipika and Balaramabharatam. 27. The repertoire. 28. Attaprakaram and Notations. Notes. Glossary. Index. Appendix. The Author. Bibliography. Discover the captivating world of "MUDRA The Language of Dance and Theatre in Kerala," an indispensable anthology of hand gestures designed to meet the needs of classical dancers, contemporary actors, and theatre practitioners. Written by G.Venu, who embarked on this extraordinary project at the tender age of 19 while studying Kathakali, this book is the culmination of over 50 years of dedicated work by a bona fide maestro of the art form, now 77 years old. Unlocking the secrets of Kutiyattam, Kathakali, and Mohiniyattam, G.Venu has created a groundbreaking notation system that brings clarity to the intricate vocabulary of these ancient practices, and is curated in an easy-to-read format. Drawing on the expertise of esteemed masters such as Guru Ammannur Madhava Chakyar, Guru Gopinath, Guru Chenganoor Raman Pillai, and Nirmala Paniker, the opus compiles 1341 hand gesture notations, encompassing a variety of schools and styles. Whether you are a seasoned professional or an enthusiastic beginner, this essential guide is a treasure trove of knowledge for performing artists seeking to delve into the rich heritage of Kerala's dance and theatre traditions. Immerse yourself in the vast and trans-formative depth of MUDRA, and let your artistic journey take flight.