Indian women are famed for their bright clothes and traditional jewelry. Added to this burst of color are a host of other adornments in the form body art and piercings. One strong symbol of body art is the ‘bindi’ or ‘bindiya’. It is usually a red dot worn in the center of the forehead, just between the brows.
A powder of dried turmeric and lead produces ‘kumkum’ or ‘sindoor’ used to apply the traditional red bindi. In southern India vermillion is used to apply a ‘bindi’, it is made of powdered red mercuric sulphide. Now bindi’s are available in a variety of colors and materials. Married women wear it as a norm, while younger women prefer to wear it as an accessory.
A powder of dried turmeric and lead produces ‘kumkum’ or ‘sindoor’ used to apply the traditional red bindi. In southern India vermillion is used to apply a ‘bindi’, it is made of powdered red mercuric sulphide. Now bindi’s are available in a variety of colors and materials. Married women wear it as a norm, while younger women prefer to wear it as an accessory.
Several theories explain the tradition of this ornamental dot. Those of a scientific bent of mind say the 'bindi’ is applied on an integral nerve point. This center point is considered an integration of higher wisdom and inner strength. The ‘bindi’ is thus applied to retain energy. The traditionalists believe it brings good fortune and luck. It is auspicious and a symbol of marriage, the most sacred of all ties. Mystics have always argued that the ‘bindi’ is the third eye, the seat of all Hindu goddesses and their powers. Ultimately it is the Fashionista’s that have brought the ‘bindi’ into the limelight by wearing it simply for its stark presence and mystery.
‘Bindi’s’ are now tradition and trendy. They come in intricate patterns with gems and sequins adding to the vibrancy. They are worn with both ethnic and western clothes, making a global statement in fashion.
Not only women, but Hindu men also wear a dot on the forehead, indicating their third eye. The 'bindi’ for men can also be called a ‘Tika’ or 'Tilak', it is usually longer and applied with the thumb. The ‘Tika’ is an auspicious symbol for men too, it reminds them of their spiritual heritage. In terms of history this ‘Tika’ helps to identify a Hindu among the members of other religions. Christians wear a cross, the Jewish wear a ‘yarmulke’, the Sikhs wear a turban and so on.
Ulitmately its women that identify most with the 'bindi', it signifies female energy or ‘shakti’. This red dot has gone from a symbol of marriage into patterns that go with a woman’s moods and the occasions in her life. It is all about empowerment and femininity.
1 comment:
Bindi is a identity of a women who is married.
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