While bowing before Lord Shiva or Kesava we should raise both hands 12 inches above our head and offer respect (This symbol indicates that there exists no difference between Shiva or Kesava).

For any others deity except Shiva or Vishnu, we should salute by combining both hands on the head.

When we respect teacher both hands should be brought together, straight before the face.

To father and all other elders hands must be kept before mouth as a taken of respect.

At the time of respecting mother, both hands must be untied before stomach as a form of salvation.

Both hands must be kept together at chest while respecting yogis or any great souls.

Sri Sainathaya Namah.