thilaka

Thilaka is a Sanskrit word that translates to "auspicious mark" or "beauty spot." In Hindu culture, it is commonly worn by both men and women on their forehead, between the eyebrows. The thilaka is often applied using sandalwood paste, kumkum (red powder), turmeric, or ash. Its significance is multifaceted, ranging from religious devotion to personal adornment and even as a symbol of caste or marital status in some traditions.

The shape and color of the thilaka can vary depending on the sect or deity a person worships. For instance, followers of Vishnu might wear a U-shaped mark, while Shaivites might use a horizontal line of ash. Women often wear a red dot, known as a bindi, which is a form of thilaka, to signify their marital status or as a general beautification. Beyond its religious and social implications, the thilaka is also believed to represent the "third eye" or Ajna chakra, a point of spiritual energy. The practice of applying a thilaka is ancient, with references found in various Hindu scriptures and historical texts, highlighting its enduring cultural importance.