Holy Tilak

The importance of Tilak:

There are different types of Tilak, every second of its importance. Tilak is worn at the Ajna Chakra in the middle of the forehead, the space between the eyebrows. Tilak used at the point where the third eye or spiritual eye is believed to open. All acts against persons covered by this special section. Using Tilak is common, and indeed in most of the Hindu ceremonies begin with the application of Tilak. Well, Tilak can be done through the sandal paste, turmeric, kumkum or ash. Depending on the purpose for which Tilak used, the material selected to prepare the holy forehead mark.

      * Sandal: White sandal symbolizes purity, peace and tranquility 

      * Kumkum: Red kumkum means power, vigor, dynamism and stability 

      * Turmeric: saffron yellow turmeric stands for wealth, happiness, prosperity and abundance 

      * Holy ash or Vibhuti: Vibhuti represent dedication, devotion and commitment 

Tilak can be used in various forms as a symbol of auspiciousness and blessings. Numerous mentions were made of Tilak in the ancient scriptures such as Vedas and Upanishads. Rig Veda has given a detailed description about life in Usha Goddess, the consort of Lord Surya. She is portrayed as bearing a red dot on her forehead, which marks the rising sun.

Types of Tilak:

Per Hindu traditions, there are different kinds of Tilak, each with its own special significance. Regarded as a sign of happiness and prosperity, Tilak used on the forehead. The forehead mark Tilak can be done using sandal paste, turmeric, holy ash (Vibhuti) or kumkum. The worshipers of Lord Shiva called Saivites applies tilaka produced the sacred ash, because it symbolizes purity, consecration and sanctification. Most draw three horizontal lines known as tripundra.

Supporters of Lord Vishnu, on the other hand, wear Tilak made of sandalwood paste (Chandan). They usually do it in the form of three vertical lines. The worshipers of Shakti or Devi applies kumkum. Shaktas usually draw a single vertical line. But sometimes, their Tilak in the form of a single dot. Apart from these, there are other types of Tilak as honorary tilakas consists of Raj Tilak and Vir Tilak. They are mainly based on a single vertical line in red.

Raj Tilak used when a number of eminent persons invited to grace a special function or event. It was used in earlier times, whereas throning kings. Vir Tilak applies to those who come out victorious after winning on the battlefield. Tilak is often used by the index finger. In some customs, it is placed on the forehead with the thumb. After applying Tilak, it's usually topped with a few grains of rice.

Since time immemorial, women have been applying Tilak on their forehead, which is more popularly known as Bindi. Women wear it for the sake of celebrating themselves. Thus, it is more of a beauty mark for women in India. The traditional Bindi has been prepared as a single dot. But today is a fantastic selection of bindis available in the market coming up in the characteristic shapes and sizes. Married women wear a second Tilak between Parting of hair just above his forehead, called sindoor. It is an indication of marital status.