Neurophysiological and Epigenetic Perspectives on Hasta Mudras in Bharatanatyam: An Interdisciplinary Exploratory Study

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Published ID: IJNRD2604239

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Manasa K. V

Neurophysiological and Epigenetic Perspectives on Hasta Mudras in Bharatanatyam: An Interdisciplinary Exploratory Study

This study presents a structured interdisciplinary investigation into the Hasta Mudras of Bharatanatyam, examining their neurological, physiological, and potential genetic implications within both traditional and contemporary scientific frameworks. While Hasta Mudras are conventionally understood as codified hand gestures within the aesthetic and kinetic vocabulary of Bharatanatyam, the present research approaches them as precise neuromotor configurations that engage complex sensory, cognitive, and regulatory processes within the human body. Grounded in classical Indian theoretical constructs such as Pancha Mahabhutas, chakra systems, and the Pancha Kosha model, the study seeks to understand whether the disciplined and repetitive execution of these hastas, when performed within the rhythmic and expressive structure of Bharatanatyam, corresponds with measurable neurophysiological patterns. A comparative observational design was adopted involving trained Bharatanatyam practitioners and non-dancers. Multiple modalities of assessment were employed, including electroencephalography (EEG) to evaluate neural oscillatory activity, functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) to observe patterns of cortical connectivity, Doppler-based assessment of circulatory dynamics, and selected biochemical markers related to metabolic and endocrine function. The findings indicate that trained practitioners exhibit patterns suggestive of enhanced neural coherence, particularly in alpha and theta frequency bands, which are associated with attentional stability and integrative cognitive processing. In addition, observations point toward improved autonomic regulation and relatively balanced metabolic and endocrine profiles among dancers when compared with non-dancers. These results are interpreted in the context of existing research in dance neuroscience, which has demonstrated that sustained engagement with structured movement practices contributes to functional adaptations in neural networks governing motor coordination, emotional regulation, and cognitive performance. While the study does not assert direct genetic transformation, it situates its findings within the emerging discourse on epigenetic regulation, wherein long-term behavioural practices, including structured physical and cognitive activity, are understood to influence gene expression through neuroendocrine pathways. Within this framework, Hasta Mudras may be considered as components of an integrated embodied practice capable of contributing to systemic physiological regulation over time. The study proposes that Bharatanatyam, and specifically its Hasta Mudra system, may be understood not only as an artistic and cultural expression but also as a disciplined psychophysical practice with potential relevance to integrative health research. By retaining the integrity of traditional theoretical frameworks while engaging with contemporary scientific methodologies, this work contributes to the evolving dialogue between classical knowledge systems and modern biomedical inquiry, opening pathways for further empirical and clinical investigation.

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Manasa K. V (April-2026). Neurophysiological and Epigenetic Perspectives on Hasta Mudras in Bharatanatyam: An Interdisciplinary Exploratory Study. INTERNATIONAL JOURNAL OF NOVEL RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT, 11(4), c281-c294. https://ijnrd.org/papers/IJNRD2604239.pdf

Volume 11 Issue 4, April-2026

Pages : c281-c294

Paper Reg. ID: IJNRD_323312

Published Paper Id: IJNRD2604239

Research Area: Other area not in list

Author Type: Indian Author

Country: -, -, India

Published Paper PDF: https://ijnrd.org/papers/IJNRD2604239.pdf

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