Wrist Positions In Kathak

 Chapal Kalaas

One or both arms go back and forth from Utpatti position upward, with the palm facing out. The sideways flip turn of the wrist is important.

Thirkan

Brisk jerks (sideways) are made at the wrist joint.

Jalbhramari

Hand moves down and makes a circular movement at waist level, as wrist rotates from inside moving outward as if balancing a plate on the palm. (Sometimes this movement is done as the body turns).

Mridanga

Both hands snap at the wrists, as if striking a big drum (dholak or pakhwaj) from both ends.

Kavach

One hand comes near the opposite side of the waist, (about six inches from it) as the body twists and bends towards that waist. Mostly used while starting "Gat".

Paltaa

Hand moves upwards from Kavach position, wrist encircles over head (palm upward) as body makes the complete turn, then returns to Utpatti. Always used to start a "Gat". Usually one hand follows the other, as the body turns back and forth as if unwinding.

Chavar

The hand moves upward, fingers pointing down and stops as palms flips out gracefully. This movement is very similar to Urdhva Kona Suchita except for its soft and graceful execution.

Arpan

Both hands extend downwards almost parallel to each other, palms facing outward (the feeling is that of offering).

Ot

The hands sweeps up from Sthira position, traveling up to the opposite shoulder level, then the wrist turns so that the palm faces oneself (as if to see a mirror).

Meend

Both hands circle over the head, tracing a parallel path.