Kumkuma

Kumkuma, also spelled kumkum or kumkuma, is a red or reddish-orange powder used in Hindu rituals and as a cosmetic. It is traditionally applied to the forehead as a tilak during puja and other ceremonies. In many communities, kumkuma is a symbol of auspiciousness, prosperity, and the married status of women, and it plays a central role in weddings and daily devotional practices.

Historically, kumkuma was made from vermilion pigment (vermilion or red lead) mixed with a binding agent and other ingredients to help it adhere to the skin. Modern versions vary widely by region and manufacturer, and may be based on turmeric or saffron, mineral pigments, synthetic dyes, or combinations of these. Some commercial products are formulated as a paste or powder and may include fragrances or stabilizers. Health concerns have been raised about lead-based sindoor in older or cheaper preparations, prompting a shift toward non-toxic formulations in many markets.

Cultural significance and usage patterns differ across India and neighboring regions. In many North Indian communities, married women wear sindoor or kumkuma along the parting of the hair as a visible symbol of marital status, while in South Indian traditions the kumkuma mark on the forehead is common in daily rituals and during temple visits. In addition to personal adornment, kumkuma is used in deity offerings, auspicious rituals, and as part of temple etiquette.

Etymology traces kumkuma to Sanskrit roots referring to the red color. The practice and symbolism of kumkuma vary by community, but it remains a widely recognized element of Hindu ritual and cultural tradition.