Tilaks

Tilaks are religious marks placed on the forehead in Hinduism and among various Indian communities. They are used during worship, ceremonies, and daily rituals, and may be applied with substances such as sandalwood paste, kumkum (red powder), turmeric, sacred ash (vibhuti), or clay. They are typically worn by both men and women, and can vary in color, texture, and design depending on the occasion and community.

The term tilaka or tilak comes from Sanskrit tilakā, meaning a mark or symbol placed on the body. In Hindu practice, the tilak serves as a sign of devotion, auspiciousness, and focus for contemplation, often associated with cleansing, protection, and the presence of the divine.

Styles and symbolism vary by sect and region. Shaiva tilak usually consists of three horizontal lines of sacred ash with a dot or central mark, symbolizing devotion to Shiva. Vaishnava tilak commonly takes a U-shaped mark or vertical lines tied to Vishnu or his avatars, sometimes with a contrasting central color. Other traditions, such as Shakta or Smarta, use different combinations of colors and shapes. The design often indicates devotional identity, lineage, or the purpose of the rite being performed.

Occasions and usage extend from daily rituals to special events. Tilaks may be applied during puja, temple visits, festivals, weddings, or rites of passage. They can be applied by priests on behalf of worshippers or by individuals after bathing, as a personal act of reverence and purification.

Regional and cultural notes: Tilaks are widespread across India and in diaspora communities, with regional variation in materials, colors, and symbolism. While historically linked to sect and caste in some contexts, today they are commonly viewed as a broader cultural and religious practice.