Tilaka is a mark worn by Hindus on the middle of the forehead or between the eyebrows by the application of a powder or paste. It comes in different shapes and sizes. The most common of them is a straight line of vermillion applied with the thumb from down to up. Therefore, it is broadened at the bottom and pointed at the top. A round-shaped one which looks like a bindi is also very popular.

Different Types of Tilakas:

The followers of different Hindu sects wear different tilakas.

1. Vaishnavites wear a U-shaped one called Urdhva-Pundra. It sometimes extends to the top part of the nose.

2. Shaivites apply three horizontal lines of holy ash called tripundra across the forehead with a round spot of sandal or kumkum at the center.

3. The followers of Shaktism apply a straight tilaka, which is very common.

4. A round-shaped one is also very popular. Most of the women wear this type of tilaka. The followers of the Varakari sect in Maharastra apply a black-colored round spot on their forehead.

Symbolism:

In the world, only Hindus apply tilaka. Hence, it is an identity for Hindus and is a symbol of Hinduism. You would see some Hindu deities with a tilaka marked on the forehead. It symbolizes the third eye, which is associated with spirituality.

Colors of Tilaka:

The colors of tilaka vary from region to region and castes to castes. The common colors are red, orange, black, saffron, a combination of red and white, and yellow.

Materials Used:

1. Sandal paste.

2. Vermillion.

3. Turmeric.

4. Abeer.

5. Ash.

6. Bhasma.

7. Red lead.

8. Clay.

Why do Hindus wear Tilaka?

1. Many Hindu gods wear Tilaka. Therefore, Hindus follow their gods.

2. Ajna Chakra is located between the eyebrows.

3. It is a symbol of Hinduism.

4. The red dot worn by women indicate that they are married.

5. It shows which sect the person follows.