Unguarded, Yet Fearless

The Alapadma is a hastha that has always fascinated me. Being one of the most commonly used mudras in classical dance, its constant usage has only augmented its beauty and multi-dimensional tenses. Unlike the other single-hand gestures generally characterised by subtle final formations, the Alapadma is interestingly unique in its openness- fingers beautifully spaced out and fingers placed comfortably at maximum distances from each other. One striking feature about it, is how attractively open and unguarded it is, revealing all its possessions and being gracefully unravelled.

The unassuming form of Alapadma is probably its most distinguishing feature- it’s represents a state of happiness, a state where there is absolutely no need to suppress your inner self, a state when you let go, irrespective of any circumstance. It’s a bold representation of what it actually is, revealing its exact attributes and proportions, showing off to the world what entails its insides, and absolutely fearlessly. May be that’s the exact point of dance- emoting fearlessly.

Imagining an Alapadma forming a significant portion of personality, when fear overshadows conviction in reality, might be demanding too much of an idea. But the mere thought of having a guiding force of boldness in moments of insecurity leading from strength to strength is indeed beautiful.