Sarpasirasu Mudra

Hasthalakshanadeepika is a detailed treatise on various mudras or hand signs used in dances. There are 24 basic Mudras mentioned in this text. These Mudras are used in the classical dance dramas of Kerala, like Kathakali, Kutiyattam, Nangiarkoothu, Mohiniyattam and Ottanthullal.

Cupping the palm with all the fingers and the thumb held together is Sarpasirassu.  Some signs shown in the Sarpasirassu mode using both palms indicate :
Sandal, snake, slowly, offering of water in ceremonies, sage, the flapping of elephant ears, protect and massage.