Wrist Positions In Kathak
Here is information about some of the Wrist
positions used in Kathak.
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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.

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

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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).

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

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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.

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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.

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

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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).

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

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Jyoti
Hand extends out gracefully upto the point when a
scoop or bow shape of the arm is obtained (palm
facing upward).
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