Anjali Mudra

Anjali Mudra is one of the most recognisable gestures across Asia and beyond. The Sanskrit word “Anjali” means offering, salutation, or reverence. This mudra symbolises greeting, respect, devotion, and unity. It is universally seen as a gesture of peace, humility, and acknowledgment of the divinity within all beings.

Origins in Ancient India:

Anjali Mudra traces its roots to the earliest Vedic traditions, where bringing the palms together was an act of offering, prayer, and surrender. The gesture is referenced in ancient scriptures and has always signified heartfelt intention and the meeting of opposites—the left and right, the individual and the cosmos. It became central in Hindu, Buddhist, and Jain traditions, both in ritual and daily life.

Spread Across Asia:

As Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism travelled, so did Anjali Mudra. It became the classic gesture for greeting and respect in India (Namaste), Thailand (Wai), Cambodia, Laos, Sri Lanka, and across Southeast Asia. In Buddhist and Hindu temples, monks, priests, and devotees use Anjali Mudra to begin and end rituals, to offer gratitude, and to invoke blessings. In yoga and meditation, it is a sign of centering, balance, and devotion.

Symbolic Evolution:

Anjali Mudra’s meaning has broadened with time. While its roots are in spiritual offering, it is now used to greet, apologise, express thanks, and show solidarity. In dance, martial arts, and healing, it symbolises respect and readiness. The gesture unites body and mind, symbolising the connection between self and the divine, and between all beings.

How to Perform Anjali Mudra

Sit or stand with your back straight and shoulders relaxed. Bring your palms together in front of your chest, fingers pointing upward and pressed evenly together, thumbs lightly touching the sternum. Keep the hands gentle and the elbows relaxed. Breathe slowly and deeply. Close your eyes if you wish. As you hold the mudra, focus on your heart centre and the qualities of respect, gratitude, and presence.

When and Why to Use Anjali Mudra

Use Anjali Mudra in prayer, meditation, ritual, or everyday life to greet, show respect, or centre yourself. It can be used to begin or end yoga practice, to ask forgiveness, to express gratitude, or to invoke blessings. The gesture encourages humility, compassion, and a sense of shared humanity. In moments of conflict, it can be a silent signal of peace and reconciliation.

Symbolic Appearances and Variations

Anjali Mudra is ubiquitous in the sacred and social art of India and Southeast Asia. Statues of deities, saints, and teachers are often depicted with the palms pressed together. In classical Indian dance and theatre, it is used to express devotion and introduce a performance. The mudra appears in temple friezes, paintings, and rituals. Regional variations include the height at which the hands are held and subtle differences in finger placement, but the essential meaning is universal.

Energetic and Psychological Effects

Practicing Anjali Mudra helps balance the nervous system and calm the mind. Pressing the palms together is said to harmonise the left and right hemispheres of the brain and focus the attention inward. The gesture creates a feeling of unity, humility, and connectedness. It is often used to cultivate gratitude, reduce stress, and encourage a peaceful, open attitude.

Cultural Notes and Wider Influence

Anjali Mudra is present in yoga, meditation, prayer, and daily life throughout South and Southeast Asia. Its influence extends to the West, where it is a familiar part of yoga practice and mindfulness culture. Whether used for greeting, prayer, or meditation, Anjali Mudra is a timeless symbol of respect, reverence, and connection, transcending religious and cultural boundaries.