Hastalakshanadeepika – a Study Report

A Study on the Ancient Text 'Hastalakshanadeepika' and its Literary Influence

Abstract

‘Hastalakshandeepika’ its author placeand date are unkown.  But the severalbooks, ‘Natyakalpadruma’,‘Kerala Sahitya Charitam’, Kerala Sahitya Vijnana, Kosam are helpful for thestady of Hastalakshandeepika.  In the ‘Natyakalpa druma’ ManiMadhava cakyar.  Says that themudras of Kutiyottam generalyfollows the Hastalakshanadeepika.  Generally it could be said that its period isbefore the 10th century Abhinayadarpana.  Because Kutiyottam is said to have acquired its form around the 10thcentury Abhinayadarpana.  There is no other evidence about the textsare left.