The spirit-subduing gesture (Sanskrit: Bhutadamara Mudra) is a specific mudra of the wrathful four-armed form of Vajrapani, known as Bhuta-damara or ‘Spirit-subduer’.  It is formed by crossing the right forearm in front of the level of the heart, and linking the little fingers in the shape of a subjugating chain.  Both of the palms face outwards, with the second and third fingers curved inwards and the index fingers extended.  The second and third fingers may be held downwards by the thumbs to form circles, with the extended index fingers pointing outwards on either side in the threatening forefinger or tarjani gesture.  The shape of this mudra resembles the two out-spread wings of the garuda and is said to terrify and subdue all malignant spirits.  Several of the wrathful forms of Vajrapani have a strong affinity with the garudas, and frequently emanate them as subjugating messengers from various parts of their bodies.

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