Hand gestures, or mudras, are integral to Indian classical dance, serving as a visual language to convey emotions, narratives, and cultural symbolism. Mohiniyattam, a classical dance form from Kerala, is known for its graceful, feminine movements and fluid gestures that enhance storytelling. Rooted in ancient texts like the NatyaShastra and the Abhinaya Darpanam, mudras play a vital role in performance and expression. Recent studies have leveraged motion capture technology, high-resolution motion analysis, and semiotic research to examine the technical execution and expressive potential of mudras. Interdisciplinary approaches, including ethnographic studies and computational models, have further enriched the understanding. The beneficiaries of Mohiniyattam studies include performers, scholars, and choreographers across the nation, as well as audiences seeking artistic immersion. Many dance enthusiasts from other countries come to India to practice and study Mohiniyattam, enriching both their mental and physical well-being, which also contributes to the global recognition of the art form. However, comparative studies on hand gestures across dance traditions and their cognitive impact on audience engagement remain underexplored. Addressing these gaps can aid in preserving traditional mudras while embracing technological and conceptual innovations. This review provides insights into the evolving landscape of gesture-based expression in Indian classical dance, bridging tradition and modernity for deeper appreciation and scholarly exploration.