MUDr

Mudr is a term that may refer to the transliteration variant of mudrā, a Sanskrit word meaning gesture, seal, or sign. In many Indian religious and artistic traditions, mudrās are symbolic hand and finger positions used to convey specific meanings, states of mind, or narratives.

Etymology and usage

The word mudrā comes from Sanskrit, literally meaning “sealed” or “marked,” with figurative use extending to gesture or symbol. In transliteration, especially without diacritics, mudrā can appear as mudr. In texts and labels, this variant may occur, though mudrā is the standard form in scholarly works.

Contexts and significance

In Hinduism, mudrās appear in temple iconography and in catalogs describing the attributes of deities and sages. In yoga and meditation, mudrās refer to deliberate hand positions believed to influence energy flow or consciousness. In classical Indian dance, mudrās (hand gestures) are essential for storytelling and conveying objects, actions, and emotions. In Buddhism, mudrās symbolize events in the Buddha’s life or key teachings and are depicted in statues and paintings. Jainism also employs gesture symbolism in its art and iconography.

Common examples

Examples widely known across traditions include the Abhaya mudrā (fearlessness), Varada mudrā (granting boons), and Dhyana mudrā (meditation). While many mudrās exist, there is no single universal catalog; lists vary by tradition and school.

Notes

The form mudr may be encountered as a shorthand or transliteration variant, but mudrā is the more common and academically preferred spelling.