🕷️ Crawler Inspector

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Raw Queries and Responses

1. Shard Calculation

Query:

Response:

Calculated Shard: 152 (from laksa172)

2. Crawled Status Check

Query:

curl -X POST \
  'http://laksa152.int.ahrefs:8124/' \
  -H 'Content-Type: text/plain' \
  -H 'X-ClickHouse-Database: crawler3' \
  -H 'Authorization: Basic YXBpOg==' \
  -d 'SELECT getAhrefsURLFromUnparsed(src_unparsed) AS found_url, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(download_stamp), 0) AS crawl_time, ifNull(toUnixTimestamp(props_url_first_seen), 0) AS first_indexed_time, download_http_code AS http_code, src_unparsed AS src_unparsed, src_root_hash AS src_root_hash, history_drop_reason AS history_drop_reason, meta_title AS meta_title, meta_descriptions AS meta_descriptions, attrs_boilerpipe_text AS attrs_boilerpipe_text, attrs_markdown AS attrs_markdown, attrs_readable_markdown AS attrs_readable_markdown, meta_canonical AS meta_canonical FROM crawler3.page_info_local FINAL PREWHERE (src_root_hash, src_unparsed) IN ((getAhrefsRootHashFromUnparsed(getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi\')), getAhrefsUnparsedNoserviceFromURL(\'https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi\'))) FORMAT JSONEachRow'

Response:

{"found_url":"https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi","crawl_time":1773964077,"first_indexed_time":1440875025,"http_code":200,"src_unparsed":"org,wikipedia!en,\/wiki\/Bindi s443","src_root_hash":"17790707453426894952","history_drop_reason":null,"meta_title":"Bindi - Wikipedia","meta_descriptions":[],"attrs_boilerpipe_text":"From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia\nHindu woman in\nKullu\n, Himachal Pradesh wearing a stick-on bindi\nA\nbindi\n(from\nSanskrit\nbindú\nmeaning \"point, drop, dot or small particle\")\n[\n1\n]\n[\n2\n]\nis a coloured dot or, in modern times, a\nsticker\nworn on the centre of the forehead, by Hindus, Jains and Buddhists from the\nIndian subcontinent\nin place of the\ntilak\n. While modern stick-on bindis are worn by many women following Indian religions, they may also use\nsandalwood\npaste or create a tilak using\nkajal\nas is the original practice followed by both men and women.\nA bindi is a bright dot of some colour applied in the centre of the forehead close to the\neyebrows\nor in the middle of the forehead that is worn in the Indian subcontinent (particularly amongst female Hindus in\nIndia\n,\nNepal\n,\nBhutan\n,\nBangladesh\nand\nSri Lanka\n)\n[\n3\n]\nand Southeast Asia among\nBalinese\n,\nJavanese\n,\nSundanese\n,\nMalaysian\n,\nSingaporean\n,\nVietnamese\n, and\nMyanmar\nHindus. A similar marking is also worn by babies and children in\nChina\nand, as in the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, represents the opening of the\nthird eye\n.\n[\n4\n]\nIn\nHinduism\n,\nBuddhism\n, and\nJainism\nthe bindi is associated with the\najna\nchakra\n, and\nBindu\n[\n5\n]\nis known as the\nthird eye\nchakra.\nBindu\nis the point or dot around which the\nmandala\nis created, representing the universe.\n[\n6\n]\n[\n7\n]\nThe bindi has a religious, historical and cultural presence in the region of\nIndia\nand with the Hindu,\nIndian diaspora\naround the world.\n[\n8\n]\n[\n9\n]\nHowever, non-Hindu women in South Asian region may also wear bindi for fashion, good luck & beauty.\nReligious significance\n[\nedit\n]\nAjna\nchakra has two lotus petals dedicated to the sun, the other to the moon (e.g. light and dark, or male and female) merged at the centre.\nTraditionally, the area between the eyebrows (where the bindi is placed) is said to be the sixth\nchakra\n,\najna\n, the seat of \"concealed wisdom.\" The bindi is said to retain energy and strengthen concentration. The bindi also represents the\nthird eye\n.\n[\n10\n]\nThe\nNasadiya Sukta\nof the Rig Veda, the earliest known Sanskrit text, mentions the word\nBindu\n.\n[\n11\n]\nFemale figure with bindi ornament, terracotta, 200–250 BCE\nThe\nAjna\nis symbolised by a\nsacred lotus\nwith two petals, and corresponds to the colours violet, indigo or deep blue, though it is traditionally described as white. It is at this point that the two sides Nadi\nIda (yoga)\nand Pingala are said to terminate and merge with the central channel Sushumna, signifying the end of duality, the characteristic of being dual (e.g.\nlight\nand\ndark\n, or\nmale\nand\nfemale\n). The\nseed syllable\nfor this chakra is the syllable OM, and the presiding deity is\nArdhanarishvara\n, who is a half male, half female Shiva\/Shakti. The Shakti goddess of Ajna is called Hakini. In metaphysics,\nBindu\nis considered the dot or point at which creation begins and may become unity. It is also described as \"the sacred symbol of the cosmos in its unmanifested state\".\n[\n3\n]\n[\n6\n]\nBindu is the point around which the\nmandala\nis created, representing the universe.\n[\n7\n]\nAjna\n's key issues involve balancing the higher and lower selves and trusting inner guidance. Ajna's inner aspect relates to the access of intuition. Mentally, Ajna deals with visual consciousness. Emotionally,\nAjna\ndeals with clarity on an intuitive level.\n[\n5\n]\nGoddess Tara depicted with\nAjna\nBhrumadhya Bindu\nknown as\ninner gaze\n. Bhrumadhya is the point in the centre of the forehead commonly referred to as the third eye, or centre of consciousness.\n[\n5\n]\nIn Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, bindi is associated with Ajna Chakra and\nBindu\n.\n[\n5\n]\nDivinities in these religions are typically depicted with\nBhrumadhya\nBindu\n, in meditative pose with their eyes nearly closed show the gaze focused between eyebrows, other spot being the tip of the nose—Naasikagra. The very spot between the eyebrows known as Bhrumadhya is where one focuses one's sight, so that it helps concentration.\n[\n7\n]\nRelief from stupa, 2nd century B.C. Only female figures were marked with the\nsacred lotus\nduring this period\nThe bindi has multiple meanings:\nArchaeology has yielded clay female figurines from the Indus Valley with red pigment on the forehead and hair parting. It is unclear whether this held any religious or cultural significance.\n[\n12\n]\nIn Hinduism, the colour red represents honour, love, and prosperity, hence bindis are worn to symbolise these qualities after marriage in particular.\n[\n13\n]\nIn meditation, the point between the eyebrows (Bhrumadhya) is where one focuses one's sight, to help concentration. Most images of Hindu, Jain or Buddhist divinities in meditative poses with their eyes nearly closed show the gaze focused between the eyebrows (another spot being the tip of the nose—naasikagra)\nSwami Muktananda writes that \"auspicious\nKumkuma\nor sandalwood paste is applied (between the eyebrows) out of respect for the inner Guru. It is the Guru's seat. There is a chakra (centre of spiritual energy within the human body) here called Ajna chakra, meaning 'Command centre'. Here is received the Guru's command to go higher in Sadhana (spiritual practice) to the 'Sahasraar' (seventh and final chakra) which leads to Self-realisation. The flame seen at the eyebrow is called 'Guru Jyoti'.\"\n[\n14\n]\nThe encyclopaedic\nDictionary of Yoga\nreports that this 'Ajna Chakra' is also called the 'Third eye'. This centre is connected with the sacred syllable '\nOm\n' and presiding, is '\nParashiva\n'. On activating this centre, the aspirant overcomes '\nAhankāra\n' (the ego or sense of individuality), the last stop on the path of spirituality.\n[\n15\n]\nThe bindi continues to hold symbolic significance rooted in Indian mythology and is traditionally associated with Hindu culture. \"wearing a bindi or mangalsutra is a sign of Hindu women. The traditional bindi still represents and preserves the symbolic significance that is integrated into Indian mythology in many parts of India.\"\nTraditional application method\n[\nedit\n]\nBride with decorative bindis and\nmaang tika\nbetween hair parting where married women apply\nsindoor\nA traditional bindi is red or maroon in colour as it mimics\nsindoor\nor\nkumkum\nwhich is used as part Hindu religious ceremonies and rituals along with\nsandalwood\n,\nturmeric\nand ash. A pinch of vermilion powder is applied with a ring-finger to make a dot. A small annular disc aids application for beginners. First, a sticky wax paste is applied through the empty centre of the disc. This is then covered with kumkum or vermilion and then the disc is removed to get a round bindi. Various materials such as\nlac\n, sandal, \"aguru\",\nmica\n, \"kasturi\", kumkum (made of red turmeric) and\nsindoor\ncolour the dot. Saffron ground together with\n\"kusumba\" flower\ncan also work. Traditionally they are green in colour with a red dot in the middle.\n[\n16\n]\nThe bindi is no longer restricted in colour or shape.\n[\n17\n]\n[\n18\n]\nOrnamental bindis were made and sold by\nlac\nworkers known as\nLakhera\n.\nHistorically, the ornamental bindi spangle consists of a small piece of lac over which is smeared vermilion, while above it a piece of mica or thin glass is fixed for ornament. Women wore large spangles set in gold with a border of jewels if they could afford it. The bindi was made and sold by lac workers known as\nLakhera\n.\n[\n19\n]\nIn Hinduism, it's part of the\nSuhāg\nor\nlucky trousseau\nat marriages and is affixed to the girl's forehead on her wedding and thereafter always worn.\n[\n18\n]\nUnmarried girls optionally wore small ornamental spangles on their foreheads. A widow was not allowed to wear bindi or any ornamentation associated with married women.\n[\n18\n]\nIn modern times, self-adhesive bindis are available in various materials, usually made of felt or thin metal and adhesive on the other side. These are simple to apply, disposable substitutes for older lac tikli bindis. Sticker bindis come in many colours, designs, materials, and sizes.\nCourtesan\nBani Thani\nas\nRadha\nwith ornamental bindi spangle,\nc.\n 1750\nThere are different regional variations of the bindi. In Maharashtra a large\ncrescent moon\nshaped bindi is worn with a smaller black dot underneath or above, associated with\nChandrabindu\nand\nBindu chakra\nrepresented by crescent moon, they are commonly known as\nChandrakor\nin this region, outside Maharashtra they are popularly known as\nMarathi bindi\n. In Bengal region a large round red bindi is worn, brides in this region are often decorated with\nAlpana\ndesign on forehead and cheeks, along with bindi. In southern India a smaller red bindi is worn with a white tilak at the bottom, another common type is a red\ntilak\nshaped bindi. In Rajasthan the bindi is often worn round. Long\ntilak\nshaped bindi are also common, as well as the crescent moon on some occasions. Decorative bindis have become popular among women in South Asia, regardless of religious background. Bindis are a staple and symbolic for women in the Indian subcontinent.\n[\n20\n]\nIn addition to the bindi, in India, a\nvermilion\nmark in the parting of the hair just above the forehead is worn by married women as a symbol of life-long commitment to their husbands. During all Hindu marriage ceremonies, the groom applies sindoor in the part in the bride's hair.\n[\n21\n]\nApart from their cosmetic use, bindis have found a modern medical application in India. Iodine patch bindis have often been used among women in north-west Maharashtra to battle iodine deficiency.\n[\n22\n]\nA\nBalinese\ndancer with a white bindi\nIn\nSoutheast Asia\n, bindis are worn by the\nBalinese\n,\nJavanese\n, and\nSundanese people\nof\nIndonesia\n. For example, bindis are often worn by brides and grooms in\nJava\nand other parts of\nIndonesia\n, regardless of their religious beliefs.\nThe Indonesian practice of wearing a bindi originated from the cultural influence brought about by the\nIndianized\nHindu kingdoms that once ruled Indonesia. Historically, other Indianized kingdoms in\nSoutheast Asia\nalso took part in this practice.\nBengali\ngirl from\nBangladesh\nwearing Teep on the occasion of\nPohela Boishakh\nTeep\nor\ntip\n, similar to bindis, are part of\nBengali culture\nand women in\nWest Bengal, India\nand\nBangladesh\n, irrespective of their religion, adorn themselves with teeps as an ethnic practice.\n[\n23\n]\n[\n24\n]\n[\n25\n]\n[\n26\n]\nBy the 18th century the use of teeps had become very common.\n[\n27\n]\nIt's popular in celebrations like\nDurga Puja\n,\nPohela Boishakh\n,\nPohela Falgun\n,\nEid al-Fitr\n,\nEid al-Adha\nand other occasions.\nBengali Muslims\nwear the teep as a cultural representation as it has been a long part of old Bengali culture, rooted deeply with old ethnic faiths, practices, religions,\nHinduism\n&\nBuddhism\n. Wearing teep or Bindi has also become a practice to express the stance against\nterrorism\n,\ngender violence\n, inequality, and support toward the\nBengali culture\n.  During\n1971 liberation war\n, female freedom fighters reportedly wore Teep or Bindis.\nDepending on the occasion the colours of teep change, such as red and white for Pohela Boishakh, green, orange and yellow for\nPohela Falgun\n, blue and white for\nBarsha Mangal\n, brown and mustard colour for\nNabanna\n, purple and pink for Eid Al Fitr and black for\nInternational mother Language Day\n,\nEid Al Adha\n, red and green for\nIndependence Day\nand\nVictory Day\n.\nBengali Muslim brides\nwearing \"kalka tip\" on their forehead is an old tradition of Bangladesh.\n[\n28\n]\nIn\nSindh\n, some Muslim Sindhi women apply a black dot or line by \"Kajjal or Surmo (\nkohl\n)\" on the forehead and chin, and sometimes three dots or lines around eyes as part of historic Indian traditions that have sustained post-Partition. As an\namulet\nbelieved to protect against the evil-eye, these dots are called Tikro or the Hindi '\nTilak\n' (singular), or Tikra (plural).\n[\n29\n]\nLike in India, in Sindh, when a child is born, black dots\/marks and lines are drawn on their faces. In modern times, stick-on bindiyas of different shapes and designs have become very common in rural Sindh, and are applied by both Muslims and Hindus. However, this is in decline as it is considered to be appropriately used by Sindhi Hindus only.\nBack in time in Sindh the brides were applied many dots of \"Tira\" (moles) drawn upon their face and lips with needles dipped in\nantimony\nand other colouring matters.\n[\n30\n]\nThe type of forehead tattoo called Khaal or Sheen Khal was also common among Afghan and\nPashtun\nwomen,\n[\n31\n]\n[\n32\n]\nalthough it is no longer done for religious reasons. As in Sindh, dots are made using kohl or other material. Bindis are also used by\nSaraiki\nand some\nBaloch\ntribal women of Pakistan. However, many\nMuhajir\nand\nPunjabi\nconsider the use of bindis to be un-Islamic. Due to this, the use of bindis has declined in many urban areas of Pakistan.\nBindis and other religious affiliated markings are worn by recent Hindu converts like\nHare Krishnas\n.\n[\n33\n]\nBindis are sometimes worn purely for decorative purpose or style statement without any religious or cultural affiliation.\n[\n34\n]\nDecorative and ornamental bindis were introduced to other parts of the world by immigrants from the Indian subcontinent.\n[\n35\n]\nInternational celebrities such as\nGwen Stefani\n,\nJulia Roberts\n,\n[\n36\n]\nMadonna\n,\n[\n37\n]\nSelena Gomez\nand many others have been seen wearing bindis.\n[\n38\n]\nThe appropriateness of such uses has been disputed.  Reacting to Gomez wearing a bindi while singing her song \"\nCome and Get It\n\", Hindu leader\nRajan Zed\nsaid that the bindi has religious significance and should not be used as a fashion accessory,\n[\n39\n]\nbut Indian actress\nPriyanka Chopra\npraised Gomez's choice as \"an embrace of Indian culture\".\n[\n40\n]\nAdditionally, several rappers have adopted jewelled bindis, most notably\nLil Uzi Vert\n, who debuted a $24 million pink diamond bindi in February 2021. They were inspired by\nLil B\nwho wore a diamond bindi in 2012.\n[\n41\n]\nTamil woman wearing bindi\nA bindi can also be called:\n[\n42\n]\nPhot\nor\nPhut\n(literally meaning a small pressing mark) in\nAssamese\nTip\n(literally meaning \"a pressing\") in\nBengali\nTikuli\n(literally meaning \"a small\ntika\n\") in\nMadhyadeshi areas\nChandlo\n(literally meaning moon shape) in\nGujarati\nTilaka\nin\nHindi\nTika\nin\nNepali\nKunkuma\nor\nBottu\nor\nTilaka\nin\nKannada\nTilakaya\nin\nSinhala\nTikli\nin\nKonkani\nKunkoo\nor\nTikali\nin\nMarathi\nTikili\nin\nOdia\nBindi\nin\nPunjabi\nmeaning long red mark\nPottu\nin\nTamil\nand\nMalayalam\nBottu\n,\nKunkuma, or\nTilakam\nin\nTelugu\nTikli\nin\nMaithili\nTyok\nin\nKashmiri\nTilkodi\nin\nSindhi\nHuadian\n, a traditional Chinese forehead decoration\nPaklei Namsa\nThirunamam\nTilaka\nUrna\nVibhuti\n, sacred ash applied across the forehead\n^\n\"History and Etymology for bindi\"\n.\nMerriam-Webster\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 16 January 2022\n. Retrieved\n16 January\n2022\n.\nborrowed from Hindi\nbindī\n, literally, \"dot, mark\" (or a cognate Indo-Aryan word), going back to the Middle Indo-Aryan and Sanskrit stem\nbindu-\n\"drop, spot,\" it's worn by Hindu, Buddhist, Jaina and some Sikhs\n^\n\"Bindi etymology\"\n. Etymologeek.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 14 September 2024\n. Retrieved\n16 January\n2022\n.\nEnglish word bindi comes from Hindi बिंदी\n^\na\nb\nKhanna 1979: p. 171\n^\nXiaoou, Yu (10 September 2014).\n\"Guidelines for school entrance in ancient China\"\n. ChinaCulture.org.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 30 September 2018\n. Retrieved\n16 February\n2018\n.\n^\na\nb\nc\nd\nMercier (2007). p. 267.\n^\na\nb\nSwami Ranganathananda\n(1991).\nHuman Being in Depth: A Scientific Approach to Religion\n. SUNY Press. p. 21.\nISBN\n \n0791406792\n.\n^\na\nb\nc\nShakya, pp. 82–83\n^\nSoutheast Asia: A Historical Encyclopedia, from Angkor Wat to East Timor\n, by\nKeat Gin Ooi\np. 642\n^\nHindu-Buddhist Architecture in Southeast Asia\nby Daigorō Chihara p. 226\n^\n\"Couples Fuel India's Vibrant Art Scene\"\n.\nThe New York Times\n. 13 October 2011\n. Retrieved\n20 October\n2011\n.\n^\n\"nasadiya-suktha-and-purusha-suktha\"\n. 21 September 2012.\n^\nM. Kenoyer, Jonathan (1998).\nAncient Cities of the Indus Valley Civilization\n(1st ed.). Oxford University Press. p. 186.\nISBN\n \n0195779401\n.\n^\nPintchman, Tracy (2007).\nWomen's Lives, Women's Rituals in the Hindu Tradition\n. Oxford. pp. \n90\n–97.\nISBN\n \n978-0195177060\n.\n^\nFrom Finite to Infinite\n, by Swami Muktananda, SYDA Foundation, S. Fallsburg, New York, 1989, pp. 88–89\n^\nEncyclopedic Dictionary of Yoga\n, by Georg Fuerstein, Paragon House Publishers, New York, 1990, p. 15\n^\nBahadur, Om Lata (1996).\nThe book of Hindu festivals and ceremonies\n(3rd ed.). New Delhi: UBS Publishers Distributors ltd. p. \n168\n.\nISBN\n \n81-86112-23-5\n.\n^\nKhadi and Village Industries Commission, Government of India\n^\na\nb\nc\nParvesh Handa, \"Home Beauty Clinic\", Pustak Mahal,\nISBN\n \n81-223-0099-5\n^\n\"The Tribes and Castes of the Central Provinces of India—Volume IV\"\n.\n^\nPriyabala Shah (April 1986) \"Tilaka: Hindu marks on the forehead\", p.88\n^\nGwynne, Paul (2009).\nWorld Religions in Practice: A Comparative Introduction\n. Maiden, MA: Blackwell Publishing.\nISBN\n \n9781444360059\n.\n^\nDhar, Shobha (11 April 2015).\n\"Iodine bindis for tribal women to fight deficiency\"\n. TNN. The Times of India\n. Retrieved\n25 July\n2015\n.\n^\nচৌধুরী, মধুমন্তী (22 September 2015).\n\"পুজোর বাজারে সাবেকি টিপ\"\n.\nAnandabazar Online\n. Retrieved\n25 December\n2023\n.\n^\n\"Teep\"\n.\n^\nP.K.BALACHANDRAN (17 April 2019).\n\"Bangladesh Asserts its Bengali Identity in Mass Celebration of Pohela Boishak\"\n.\nwww.thecitizen.in\n. Retrieved\n11 June\n2023\n.\n^\n\"টিপটপ টিপ\"\n.\nwww.kalerkantho.com\n. March 2020\n. Retrieved\n11 June\n2023\n.\n^\nইসলাম, সায়েদুল (2 April 2022).\n\"বাঙালি নারীদের মধ্যে টিপ পরার প্রচলন শুরু হলো যেভাবে\"\n.\nBBC\n. Retrieved\n25 December\n2023\n.\n^\nKalka\n.\nBanglapedia\n.\n^\n\"ٽڪو2 : (Sindhianaسنڌيانا)\"\n.\nwww.encyclopediasindhiana.org\n(in Sindhi)\n. Retrieved\n25 January\n2024\n.\n^\nBurton, Sir Richard Francis (1851).\nSindh, and the Races that Inhabit the Valley of the Indus\n. W. H. Allen.\n^\n\"Khaal, The Tattoo of Afghan Womxn\"\n.\nHer Culture\n. 24 May 2021\n. Retrieved\n11 June\n2023\n.\n^\nKhan, Moxet (25 November 2020).\n\"Sheen Khal \/ blue tattoo are the Beauty Marks for Pakhtun females\"\n.\nPukhtoogle\n. Retrieved\n11 June\n2023\n.\n^\n\"Svami Sadananda Dasa: Disciple of Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati and Guru of Vamandas (Walther Eidlitz)\"\n.\nsadananda.com\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 26 September 2017\n. Retrieved\n1 October\n2015\n.\n^\nKhu phố Little India ở Artesia\n,\nNguoi Viet Online\n, 11 November 2011, Retrieved 22 November 2011\n^\nJuventud organiza un mercadillo solidario a beneficio de la Fundación Vicente Ferrer\nArchived\n7 April 2012 at the\nWayback Machine\n,\nelperiodic.com\n, 17 November 2011. Retrieved 22 November 2011\n^\n\"\n'Pretty Woman' in temple upset\"\n.\nBBC News\n. 23 September 2009.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 29 September 2009\n. Retrieved\n26 April\n2010\n.\n^\n\"Try a bindi now with Western wear\"\n.\nPunjab Newsline\n. 6 October 2011. Archived from\nthe original\non 30 March 2012\n. Retrieved\n20 October\n2011\n.\n^\n\"Should Selena Gomez apologize for wearing a bindi at the MTV Movie\"\n. 17 April 2013.\n^\nSieczkowski, Cavan (16 April 2013).\n\"Selena Gomez Bindi: Hindu Leaders Demand Apology For MTV Movie Awards Costume\"\n.\nHuffington Post\n. Retrieved\n25 September\n2015\n.\n^\nDelliCarpini, Gregory Jr. (22 May 2013).\n\"Selena Gomez's Bindi Styling: Offensive? Bollywood Star Priyanka Chopra Talks About the Star's Usage\"\n.\nBillboard\n.\nArchived\nfrom the original on 24 September 2015\n. Retrieved\n25 September\n2015\n.\n^\n\"Lil Uzi Vert's $24 Million Forehead Diamond Was Inspired by Lil B\"\n.\nexclaim.ca\n. Retrieved\n17 February\n2021\n.\n^\n\"Dazzling bindis\"\n.\nMSN India\n. 10 October 2011. Archived from\nthe original\non 12 October 2011\n. Retrieved\n20 October\n2011\n.\nWikimedia Commons has media related to\nBindi\n.","attrs_markdown":"[Jump to content](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#bodyContent)\n\nMain menu\n\nMain menu\n\nmove to sidebar\n\nhide\n\nNavigation\n\n- [Main page](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Main_Page \"Visit the main page [z]\")\n- [Contents](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wikipedia:Contents \"Guides to browsing Wikipedia\")\n- [Current events](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Portal:Current_events \"Articles related to current events\")\n- [Random article](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:Random \"Visit a randomly selected article [x]\")\n- [About Wikipedia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wikipedia:About \"Learn about Wikipedia and how it works\")\n- [Contact us](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wikipedia:Contact_us \"How to contact Wikipedia\")\n\nContribute\n\n- [Help](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Help:Contents \"Guidance on how to use and edit Wikipedia\")\n- [Learn to edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Help:Introduction \"Learn how to edit Wikipedia\")\n- [Community portal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wikipedia:Community_portal \"The hub for editors\")\n- [Recent changes](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:RecentChanges \"A list of recent changes to Wikipedia [r]\")\n- [Upload file](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wikipedia:File_upload_wizard \"Add images or other media for use on Wikipedia\")\n- [Special pages](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:SpecialPages \"A list of all special pages [q]\")\n\n[![](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/static\/images\/icons\/enwiki-25.svg) ![Wikipedia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/static\/images\/mobile\/copyright\/wikipedia-wordmark-en-25.svg) ![The Free Encyclopedia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/static\/images\/mobile\/copyright\/wikipedia-tagline-en-25.svg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Main_Page)\n\n[Search](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:Search \"Search Wikipedia [f]\")\n\nAppearance\n\n- [Donate](https:\/\/donate.wikimedia.org\/?wmf_source=donate&wmf_medium=sidebar&wmf_campaign=en.wikipedia.org&uselang=en)\n- [Create account](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Special:CreateAccount&returnto=Bindi \"You are encouraged to create an account and log in; however, it is not mandatory\")\n- [Log in](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Special:UserLogin&returnto=Bindi \"You're encouraged to log in; however, it's not mandatory. [o]\")\n\nPersonal tools\n\n- [Donate](https:\/\/donate.wikimedia.org\/?wmf_source=donate&wmf_medium=sidebar&wmf_campaign=en.wikipedia.org&uselang=en)\n- [Create account](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Special:CreateAccount&returnto=Bindi \"You are encouraged to create an account and log in; however, it is not mandatory\")\n- [Log in](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Special:UserLogin&returnto=Bindi \"You're encouraged to log in; however, it's not mandatory. [o]\")\n\n## Contents\nmove to sidebar\n\nhide\n\n- [(Top)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi)\n- [1 Religious significance](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#Religious_significance)\n- [2 Traditional application method](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#Traditional_application_method)\n  Toggle Traditional application method subsection\n  - [2\\.1 Related customs in other Asian regions](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#Related_customs_in_other_Asian_regions)\n- [3 Teep](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#Teep)\n- [4 Bindis in Pakistan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#Bindis_in_Pakistan)\n- [5 Modern use](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#Modern_use)\n- [6 Alternative terms](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#Alternative_terms)\n- [7 See also](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#See_also)\n- [8 References](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#References)\n- [9 External links](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#External_links)\n\nToggle the table of contents\n\n# Bindi\n38 languages\n\n- [العربية](https:\/\/ar.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%D8%A8%D9%86%D8%AF%D9%8A \"بندي – Arabic\")\n- [অসমীয়া](https:\/\/as.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%A6%AB%E0%A7%8B%E0%A6%81%E0%A6%9F \"ফোঁট – Assamese\")\n- [Azərbaycanca](https:\/\/az.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi \"Bindi – Azerbaijani\")\n- [Български](https:\/\/bg.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%D0%91%D0%B8%D0%BD%D0%B4%D0%B8 \"Бинди – Bulgarian\")\n- [বাংলা](https:\/\/bn.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%A6%9F%E0%A6%BF%E0%A6%AA \"টিপ – Bangla\")\n- [Català](https:\/\/ca.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi \"Bindi – Catalan\")\n- [Čeština](https:\/\/cs.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi \"Bindi – Czech\")\n- [Dansk](https:\/\/da.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi \"Bindi – Danish\")\n- [Deutsch](https:\/\/de.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi \"Bindi – German\")\n- [Español](https:\/\/es.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi \"Bindi – Spanish\")\n- [Eesti](https:\/\/et.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi \"Bindi – Estonian\")\n- [Euskara](https:\/\/eu.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi \"Bindi – Basque\")\n- [فارسی](https:\/\/fa.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%D8%A8%DB%8C%D9%86%D8%AF%DB%8C \"بیندی – Persian\")\n- [Suomi](https:\/\/fi.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi \"Bindi – Finnish\")\n- [Français](https:\/\/fr.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi \"Bindi – French\")\n- [Galego](https:\/\/gl.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi \"Bindi – Galician\")\n- [עברית](https:\/\/he.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%D7%91%D7%99%D7%A0%D7%93%D7%99 \"בינדי – Hebrew\")\n- [Magyar](https:\/\/hu.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi \"Bindi – Hungarian\")\n- [Italiano](https:\/\/it.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi_\$decorazione\$ \"Bindi (decorazione) – Italian\")\n- [日本語](https:\/\/ja.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E3%83%93%E3%83%B3%E3%83%87%E3%82%A3%E3%83%BC \"ビンディー – Japanese\")\n- [한국어](https:\/\/ko.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%EB%B9%88%EB%94%94_\$%EC%9D%B8%EB%8F%84\$ \"빈디 (인도) – Korean\")\n- [മലയാളം](https:\/\/ml.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%B4%AA%E0%B5%8A%E0%B4%9F%E0%B5%8D%E0%B4%9F%E0%B5%8D \"പൊട്ട് – Malayalam\")\n- [Bahasa Melayu](https:\/\/ms.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pottu \"Pottu – Malay\")\n- [Nederlands](https:\/\/nl.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi_\$decoratie\$ \"Bindi (decoratie) – Dutch\")\n- [Norsk bokmål](https:\/\/no.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi \"Bindi – Norwegian Bokmål\")\n- [ଓଡ଼ିଆ](https:\/\/or.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%AC%9F%E0%AC%BF%E0%AC%95%E0%AC%BF%E0%AC%B2%E0%AC%BF \"ଟିକିଲି – Odia\")\n- [ਪੰਜਾਬੀ](https:\/\/pa.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%A8%AC%E0%A8%BF%E0%A9%B0%E0%A8%A6%E0%A9%80_\$%E0%A8%B8%E0%A8%9C%E0%A8%BE%E0%A8%B5%E0%A8%9F\$ \"ਬਿੰਦੀ (ਸਜਾਵਟ) – Punjabi\")\n- [Polski](https:\/\/pl.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi \"Bindi – Polish\")\n- [Português](https:\/\/pt.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi \"Bindi – Portuguese\")\n- [Română](https:\/\/ro.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi \"Bindi – Romanian\")\n- [Русский](https:\/\/ru.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%D0%91%D0%B8%D0%BD%D0%B4%D0%B8 \"Бинди – Russian\")\n- [Simple English](https:\/\/simple.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi \"Bindi – Simple English\")\n- [Shqip](https:\/\/sq.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi_\$zbukurim\$ \"Bindi (zbukurim) – Albanian\")\n- [Svenska](https:\/\/sv.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi \"Bindi – Swedish\")\n- [தமிழ்](https:\/\/ta.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%E0%AE%AA%E0%AF%8A%E0%AE%9F%E0%AF%8D%E0%AE%9F%E0%AF%81 \"பொட்டு – Tamil\")\n- [Українська](https:\/\/uk.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%D0%91%D1%96%D0%BD%D0%B4%D1%96 \"Бінді – Ukrainian\")\n- [اردو](https:\/\/ur.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/%D8%A8%D9%86%D8%AF%DB%8C_\$%D8%B3%D8%AC%D8%A7%D9%88%D9%B9\$ \"بندی (سجاوٹ) – Urdu\")\n- [Tiếng Việt](https:\/\/vi.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi \"Bindi – Vietnamese\")\n\n[Edit links](https:\/\/www.wikidata.org\/wiki\/Special:EntityPage\/Q747901#sitelinks-wikipedia \"Edit interlanguage links\")\n\n- [Article](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi \"View the content page [c]\")\n- [Talk](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Talk:Bindi \"Discuss improvements to the content page [t]\")\n\nEnglish\n\n- [Read](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi)\n- [Edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Bindi&action=edit \"Edit this page [e]\")\n- [View history](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Bindi&action=history \"Past revisions of this page [h]\")\n\nTools\n\nTools\n\nmove to sidebar\n\nhide\n\nActions\n\n- [Read](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi)\n- [Edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Bindi&action=edit \"Edit this page [e]\")\n- [View history](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Bindi&action=history)\n\nGeneral\n\n- [What links here](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:WhatLinksHere\/Bindi \"List of all English Wikipedia pages containing links to this page [j]\")\n- [Related changes](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:RecentChangesLinked\/Bindi \"Recent changes in pages linked from this page [k]\")\n- [Upload file](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wikipedia:File_Upload_Wizard \"Upload files [u]\")\n- [Permanent link](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Bindi&oldid=1343395290 \"Permanent link to this revision of this page\")\n- [Page information](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Bindi&action=info \"More information about this page\")\n- [Cite this page](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Special:CiteThisPage&page=Bindi&id=1343395290&wpFormIdentifier=titleform \"Information on how to cite this page\")\n- [Get shortened URL](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Special:UrlShortener&url=https%3A%2F%2Fen.wikipedia.org%2Fwiki%2FBindi)\n\nPrint\/export\n\n- [Download as PDF](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Special:DownloadAsPdf&page=Bindi&action=show-download-screen \"Download this page as a PDF file\")\n- [Printable version](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Bindi&printable=yes \"Printable version of this page [p]\")\n\nIn other projects\n\n- [Wikimedia Commons](https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Bindi)\n- [Wikidata item](https:\/\/www.wikidata.org\/wiki\/Special:EntityPage\/Q747901 \"Structured data on this page hosted by Wikidata [g]\")\n\nAppearance\n\nmove to sidebar\n\nhide\n\nFrom Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia\n\nDot worn on the centre of the forehead\n\nFor other uses, see [Bindi (disambiguation)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi_\$disambiguation\$ \"Bindi (disambiguation)\").\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/4\/42\/Kullu_Himachal_Pradesh_India_Woman.jpg\/250px-Kullu_Himachal_Pradesh_India_Woman.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Kullu_Himachal_Pradesh_India_Woman.jpg)\n\nHindu woman in [Kullu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kullu \"Kullu\"), Himachal Pradesh wearing a stick-on bindi\n\nA **bindi** (from [Sanskrit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sanskrit \"Sanskrit\") *[bindú](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindu_\$symbol\$ \"Bindu (symbol)\")* meaning \"point, drop, dot or small particle\")[\\[1\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-1)[\\[2\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-2) is a coloured dot or, in modern times, a [sticker](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sticker \"Sticker\") worn on the centre of the forehead, by Hindus, Jains and Buddhists from the [Indian subcontinent](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indian_subcontinent \"Indian subcontinent\") in place of the [tilak](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tilaka \"Tilaka\"). While modern stick-on bindis are worn by many women following Indian religions, they may also use [sandalwood](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sandalwood \"Sandalwood\") paste or create a tilak using [kajal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kohl_\$cosmetics\$ \"Kohl (cosmetics)\") as is the original practice followed by both men and women.\n\nA bindi is a bright dot of some colour applied in the centre of the forehead close to the [eyebrows](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Eyebrow \"Eyebrow\") or in the middle of the forehead that is worn in the Indian subcontinent (particularly amongst female Hindus in [India](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/India \"India\"), [Nepal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nepal \"Nepal\"), [Bhutan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bhutan \"Bhutan\"), [Bangladesh](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bangladesh \"Bangladesh\") and [Sri Lanka](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sri_Lanka \"Sri Lanka\"))[\\[3\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-Khanna_1979:_p.171-3) and Southeast Asia among [Balinese](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Balinese_people \"Balinese people\"), [Javanese](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Javanese_people \"Javanese people\"), [Sundanese](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sundanese_people \"Sundanese people\"), [Malaysian](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hinduism_in_Malaysia \"Hinduism in Malaysia\"), [Singaporean](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hinduism_in_Singapore \"Hinduism in Singapore\"), [Vietnamese](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hinduism_in_Vietnam \"Hinduism in Vietnam\"), and [Myanmar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hinduism_in_Myanmar \"Hinduism in Myanmar\") Hindus. A similar marking is also worn by babies and children in [China](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/China \"China\") and, as in the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, represents the opening of the [third eye](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Third_eye \"Third eye\").[\\[4\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-4) In [Hinduism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hinduism \"Hinduism\"), [Buddhism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Buddhism \"Buddhism\"), and [Jainism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jainism \"Jainism\") the bindi is associated with the [ajna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ajna \"Ajna\") [chakra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chakra \"Chakra\"), and [Bindu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindu_\$symbol\$ \"Bindu (symbol)\")[\\[5\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-Mercier_2007._p._267-5) is known as the [third eye](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Third_eye \"Third eye\") chakra. [Bindu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindu_\$symbol\$ \"Bindu (symbol)\") is the point or dot around which the [mandala](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mandala \"Mandala\") is created, representing the universe.[\\[6\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-Swami_Ranganathananda_1991_21-6)[\\[7\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-Shakya,_p._82-83-7) The bindi has a religious, historical and cultural presence in the region of [India](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/India \"India\") and with the Hindu, [Indian diaspora](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indian_diaspora \"Indian diaspora\") around the world.[\\[8\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-8)[\\[9\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-9) However, non-Hindu women in South Asian region may also wear bindi for fashion, good luck & beauty.\n\n## Religious significance\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Bindi&action=edit&section=1 \"Edit section: Religious significance\")\\]\n\nSee also: [Ajna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ajna \"Ajna\"), [Chakra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chakra \"Chakra\"), [Bindu (symbol)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindu_\$symbol\$ \"Bindu (symbol)\"), and [Tilaka](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tilaka \"Tilaka\")\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/7\/7d\/Ajna_chakra.svg\/250px-Ajna_chakra.svg.png)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Ajna_chakra.svg)\n\n[Ajna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ajna \"Ajna\") chakra has two lotus petals dedicated to the sun, the other to the moon (e.g. light and dark, or male and female) merged at the centre.\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/c\/c9\/Indian_Dancer_%28Malabika_Sen%29.jpg\/250px-Indian_Dancer_%28Malabika_Sen%29.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Indian_Dancer_\$Malabika_Sen\$.jpg)\n\nBindi and traditional head ornament with sun and moon pendants on an [Indian classical dancer](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indian_classical_dancer \"Indian classical dancer\")\n\nTraditionally, the area between the eyebrows (where the bindi is placed) is said to be the sixth [chakra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chakra \"Chakra\"), *[ajna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ajna \"Ajna\")*, the seat of \"concealed wisdom.\" The bindi is said to retain energy and strengthen concentration. The bindi also represents the [third eye](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Third_eye \"Third eye\").[\\[10\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-10) The [Nasadiya Sukta](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nasadiya_Sukta \"Nasadiya Sukta\") of the Rig Veda, the earliest known Sanskrit text, mentions the word *[Bindu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindu_\$symbol\$ \"Bindu (symbol)\")*.[\\[11\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-nasadiya-suktha-and-purusha-suktha-11)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/b\/b0\/Female_figure_with_hair_ornaments%2C_terracotta%2C_200-250_BCE.jpg\/250px-Female_figure_with_hair_ornaments%2C_terracotta%2C_200-250_BCE.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Female_figure_with_hair_ornaments,_terracotta,_200-250_BCE.jpg)\n\nFemale figure with bindi ornament, terracotta, 200–250 BCE\n\nThe [Ajna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ajna \"Ajna\") is symbolised by a [sacred lotus](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nelumbo_nucifera \"Nelumbo nucifera\") with two petals, and corresponds to the colours violet, indigo or deep blue, though it is traditionally described as white. It is at this point that the two sides Nadi [Ida (yoga)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ida_\$yoga\$ \"Ida (yoga)\") and Pingala are said to terminate and merge with the central channel Sushumna, signifying the end of duality, the characteristic of being dual (e.g. *light* and *dark*, or *male* and *female*). The [seed syllable](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/B%C4%ABja \"Bīja\") for this chakra is the syllable OM, and the presiding deity is [Ardhanarishvara](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ardhanarishvara \"Ardhanarishvara\"), who is a half male, half female Shiva\/Shakti. The Shakti goddess of Ajna is called Hakini. In metaphysics, [Bindu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindu_\$symbol\$ \"Bindu (symbol)\") is considered the dot or point at which creation begins and may become unity. It is also described as \"the sacred symbol of the cosmos in its unmanifested state\".[\\[3\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-Khanna_1979:_p.171-3)[\\[6\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-Swami_Ranganathananda_1991_21-6) Bindu is the point around which the [mandala](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mandala \"Mandala\") is created, representing the universe.[\\[7\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-Shakya,_p._82-83-7) [Ajna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ajna \"Ajna\")'s key issues involve balancing the higher and lower selves and trusting inner guidance. Ajna's inner aspect relates to the access of intuition. Mentally, Ajna deals with visual consciousness. Emotionally, [Ajna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ajna \"Ajna\") deals with clarity on an intuitive level.[\\[5\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-Mercier_2007._p._267-5)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/3\/33\/Prajnaparamita_Java.jpg\/250px-Prajnaparamita_Java.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Prajnaparamita_Java.jpg)\n\nGoddess Tara depicted with [Ajna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ajna \"Ajna\") *[Bhrumadhya Bindu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindu_\$symbol\$ \"Bindu (symbol)\")* known as *inner gaze*. Bhrumadhya is the point in the centre of the forehead commonly referred to as the third eye, or centre of consciousness.[\\[5\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-Mercier_2007._p._267-5)\n\nIn Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, bindi is associated with Ajna Chakra and [Bindu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindu_\$symbol\$ \"Bindu (symbol)\").[\\[5\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-Mercier_2007._p._267-5) Divinities in these religions are typically depicted with *Bhrumadhya [Bindu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindu_\$symbol\$ \"Bindu (symbol)\")*, in meditative pose with their eyes nearly closed show the gaze focused between eyebrows, other spot being the tip of the nose—Naasikagra. The very spot between the eyebrows known as Bhrumadhya is where one focuses one's sight, so that it helps concentration.[\\[7\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-Shakya,_p._82-83-7)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/1\/1f\/Yakshi._Bharhut%2C_Satna%2C_C._2nd_cent_BC._Bhopal_Museum.jpg\/250px-Yakshi._Bharhut%2C_Satna%2C_C._2nd_cent_BC._Bhopal_Museum.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Yakshi._Bharhut,_Satna,_C._2nd_cent_BC._Bhopal_Museum.jpg)\n\nRelief from stupa, 2nd century B.C. Only female figures were marked with the [sacred lotus](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nelumbo_nucifera \"Nelumbo nucifera\") during this period\n\nThe bindi has multiple meanings:\n\n- Archaeology has yielded clay female figurines from the Indus Valley with red pigment on the forehead and hair parting. It is unclear whether this held any religious or cultural significance.[\\[12\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-12)\n- In Hinduism, the colour red represents honour, love, and prosperity, hence bindis are worn to symbolise these qualities after marriage in particular.[\\[13\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-13)\n- In meditation, the point between the eyebrows (Bhrumadhya) is where one focuses one's sight, to help concentration. Most images of Hindu, Jain or Buddhist divinities in meditative poses with their eyes nearly closed show the gaze focused between the eyebrows (another spot being the tip of the nose—naasikagra)\n- Swami Muktananda writes that \"auspicious [Kumkuma](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kumkum \"Kumkum\") or sandalwood paste is applied (between the eyebrows) out of respect for the inner Guru. It is the Guru's seat. There is a chakra (centre of spiritual energy within the human body) here called Ajna chakra, meaning 'Command centre'. Here is received the Guru's command to go higher in Sadhana (spiritual practice) to the 'Sahasraar' (seventh and final chakra) which leads to Self-realisation. The flame seen at the eyebrow is called 'Guru Jyoti'.\"[\\[14\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-14)\n- The encyclopaedic *Dictionary of Yoga* reports that this 'Ajna Chakra' is also called the 'Third eye'. This centre is connected with the sacred syllable '[Om](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Om \"Om\")' and presiding, is '[Parashiva](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Parashiva \"Parashiva\")'. On activating this centre, the aspirant overcomes '[Ahankāra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ahamkara \"Ahamkara\")' (the ego or sense of individuality), the last stop on the path of spirituality.[\\[15\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-15)\n\nThe bindi continues to hold symbolic significance rooted in Indian mythology and is traditionally associated with Hindu culture. \"wearing a bindi or mangalsutra is a sign of Hindu women. The traditional bindi still represents and preserves the symbolic significance that is integrated into Indian mythology in many parts of India.\"\n\n## Traditional application method\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Bindi&action=edit&section=2 \"Edit section: Traditional application method\")\\]\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/3\/3c\/HinduBrideIndia.jpg\/250px-HinduBrideIndia.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:HinduBrideIndia.jpg)\n\nBride with decorative bindis and *maang tika* between hair parting where married women apply [sindoor](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sindoor \"Sindoor\")\n\nA traditional bindi is red or maroon in colour as it mimics [sindoor](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sindoor \"Sindoor\") or [kumkum](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kumkuma \"Kumkuma\") which is used as part Hindu religious ceremonies and rituals along with [sandalwood](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sandalwood \"Sandalwood\"), [turmeric](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Turmeric \"Turmeric\") and ash. A pinch of vermilion powder is applied with a ring-finger to make a dot. A small annular disc aids application for beginners. First, a sticky wax paste is applied through the empty centre of the disc. This is then covered with kumkum or vermilion and then the disc is removed to get a round bindi. Various materials such as [lac](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lac_\$resin\$ \"Lac (resin)\"), sandal, \"aguru\", [mica](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mica \"Mica\"), \"kasturi\", kumkum (made of red turmeric) and [sindoor](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sindoor \"Sindoor\") colour the dot. Saffron ground together with [\"kusumba\" flower](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Safflower \"Safflower\") can also work. Traditionally they are green in colour with a red dot in the middle.[\\[16\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-16) The bindi is no longer restricted in colour or shape.[\\[17\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-17)[\\[18\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-hbc1-18)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/e\/e5\/Lac_Bindis.jpg\/250px-Lac_Bindis.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Lac_Bindis.jpg)\n\nOrnamental bindis were made and sold by [lac](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lac_\$resin\$ \"Lac (resin)\") workers known as [Lakhera](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lakhera \"Lakhera\").\n\nHistorically, the ornamental bindi spangle consists of a small piece of lac over which is smeared vermilion, while above it a piece of mica or thin glass is fixed for ornament. Women wore large spangles set in gold with a border of jewels if they could afford it. The bindi was made and sold by lac workers known as [Lakhera](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lakhera \"Lakhera\").[\\[19\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-19) In Hinduism, it's part of the *Suhāg* or *lucky trousseau* at marriages and is affixed to the girl's forehead on her wedding and thereafter always worn.[\\[18\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-hbc1-18) Unmarried girls optionally wore small ornamental spangles on their foreheads. A widow was not allowed to wear bindi or any ornamentation associated with married women.[\\[18\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-hbc1-18) In modern times, self-adhesive bindis are available in various materials, usually made of felt or thin metal and adhesive on the other side. These are simple to apply, disposable substitutes for older lac tikli bindis. Sticker bindis come in many colours, designs, materials, and sizes.\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/a\/a0\/Maker_unknown%2C_India_-_Krishna_and_Radha_-_Google_Art_Project.jpg\/250px-Maker_unknown%2C_India_-_Krishna_and_Radha_-_Google_Art_Project.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Maker_unknown,_India_-_Krishna_and_Radha_-_Google_Art_Project.jpg)\n\nCourtesan [Bani Thani](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bani_Thani \"Bani Thani\") as [Radha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Radha \"Radha\") with ornamental bindi spangle,\n\nc.\n\n1750\n\nThere are different regional variations of the bindi. In Maharashtra a large [crescent moon](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Crescent \"Crescent\") shaped bindi is worn with a smaller black dot underneath or above, associated with *[Chandrabindu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chandrabindu \"Chandrabindu\")* and *[Bindu chakra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindu_\$symbol\$ \"Bindu (symbol)\")* represented by crescent moon, they are commonly known as *Chandrakor* in this region, outside Maharashtra they are popularly known as *Marathi bindi*. In Bengal region a large round red bindi is worn, brides in this region are often decorated with *Alpana* design on forehead and cheeks, along with bindi. In southern India a smaller red bindi is worn with a white tilak at the bottom, another common type is a red [tilak](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tilaka \"Tilaka\") shaped bindi. In Rajasthan the bindi is often worn round. Long [tilak](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tilaka \"Tilaka\") shaped bindi are also common, as well as the crescent moon on some occasions. Decorative bindis have become popular among women in South Asia, regardless of religious background. Bindis are a staple and symbolic for women in the Indian subcontinent.[\\[20\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-20)\n\nIn addition to the bindi, in India, a [vermilion](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vermilion \"Vermilion\") mark in the parting of the hair just above the forehead is worn by married women as a symbol of life-long commitment to their husbands. During all Hindu marriage ceremonies, the groom applies sindoor in the part in the bride's hair.[\\[21\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-gwynne-21)\n\nApart from their cosmetic use, bindis have found a modern medical application in India. Iodine patch bindis have often been used among women in north-west Maharashtra to battle iodine deficiency.[\\[22\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-22)\n\n### Related customs in other Asian regions\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Bindi&action=edit&section=3 \"Edit section: Related customs in other Asian regions\")\\]\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/7\/78\/Bali-Danse_0717a.jpg\/250px-Bali-Danse_0717a.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Bali-Danse_0717a.jpg)\n\nA [Balinese](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Balinese_people \"Balinese people\") dancer with a white bindi\n\nSee also: [Balinese Hinduism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Balinese_Hinduism \"Balinese Hinduism\") and [Greater India](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Greater_India \"Greater India\")\n\nIn [Southeast Asia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Southeast_Asia \"Southeast Asia\"), bindis are worn by the [Balinese](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Balinese_people \"Balinese people\"), [Javanese](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Javanese_people \"Javanese people\"), and [Sundanese people](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sundanese_people \"Sundanese people\") of [Indonesia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indonesia \"Indonesia\"). For example, bindis are often worn by brides and grooms in [Java](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Java \"Java\") and other parts of [Indonesia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indonesia \"Indonesia\"), regardless of their religious beliefs.\n\nThe Indonesian practice of wearing a bindi originated from the cultural influence brought about by the [Indianized](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Greater_India \"Greater India\") Hindu kingdoms that once ruled Indonesia. Historically, other Indianized kingdoms in [Southeast Asia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Southeast_Asia \"Southeast Asia\") also took part in this practice.\n\n## Teep\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Bindi&action=edit&section=4 \"Edit section: Teep\")\\]\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/b\/bf\/Festival_of_Colors_%287409586600%29.jpg\/250px-Festival_of_Colors_%287409586600%29.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Festival_of_Colors_\$7409586600\$.jpg)\n\n[Bengali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bengalis \"Bengalis\") girl from [Bangladesh](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bangladesh \"Bangladesh\") wearing Teep on the occasion of [Pohela Boishakh](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pohela_Boishakh \"Pohela Boishakh\")\n\n**Teep** or **tip**, similar to bindis, are part of [Bengali culture](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bengali_culture \"Bengali culture\") and women in [West Bengal, India](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/West_Bengal \"West Bengal\") and [Bangladesh](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bangladesh \"Bangladesh\"), irrespective of their religion, adorn themselves with teeps as an ethnic practice.[\\[23\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-23)[\\[24\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-24)[\\[25\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-25)[\\[26\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-26) By the 18th century the use of teeps had become very common.[\\[27\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-27) It's popular in celebrations like [Durga Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Durga_Puja \"Durga Puja\"), [Pohela Boishakh](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pohela_Boishakh \"Pohela Boishakh\"), [Pohela Falgun](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pohela_Falgun \"Pohela Falgun\"), [Eid al-Fitr](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Eid_al-Fitr \"Eid al-Fitr\"), [Eid al-Adha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Eid_al-Adha \"Eid al-Adha\") and other occasions.\n\n[Bengali Muslims](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bengali_Muslim \"Bengali Muslim\") wear the teep as a cultural representation as it has been a long part of old Bengali culture, rooted deeply with old ethnic faiths, practices, religions, [Hinduism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hinduism_in_Bangladesh \"Hinduism in Bangladesh\") & [Buddhism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Buddhism \"Buddhism\"). Wearing teep or Bindi has also become a practice to express the stance against [terrorism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Terrorism \"Terrorism\"), [gender violence](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gender-related_violence \"Gender-related violence\"), inequality, and support toward the [Bengali culture](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Culture_of_Bengal \"Culture of Bengal\"). During [1971 liberation war](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bangladesh_Liberation_War \"Bangladesh Liberation War\"), female freedom fighters reportedly wore Teep or Bindis.\n\nDepending on the occasion the colours of teep change, such as red and white for Pohela Boishakh, green, orange and yellow for [Pohela Falgun](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pohela_Falgun \"Pohela Falgun\"), blue and white for [Barsha Mangal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Barsha_Utsab \"Barsha Utsab\"), brown and mustard colour for [Nabanna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nabanna \"Nabanna\"), purple and pink for Eid Al Fitr and black for [International mother Language Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/International_Mother_Language_Day \"International Mother Language Day\"), [Eid Al Adha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Eid_Al_Adha \"Eid Al Adha\"), red and green for [Independence Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Independence_Day_\$Bangladesh\$ \"Independence Day (Bangladesh)\") and [Victory Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Victory_Day_\$Bangladesh\$ \"Victory Day (Bangladesh)\"). [Bengali Muslim brides](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bengali_Muslim_wedding \"Bengali Muslim wedding\") wearing \"kalka tip\" on their forehead is an old tradition of Bangladesh.[\\[28\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-28)\n\n## Bindis in Pakistan\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Bindi&action=edit&section=5 \"Edit section: Bindis in Pakistan\")\\]\n\nIn [Sindh](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sindh \"Sindh\"), some Muslim Sindhi women apply a black dot or line by \"Kajjal or Surmo ([kohl](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kohl_\$cosmetics\$ \"Kohl (cosmetics)\"))\" on the forehead and chin, and sometimes three dots or lines around eyes as part of historic Indian traditions that have sustained post-Partition. As an [amulet](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Amulet \"Amulet\") believed to protect against the evil-eye, these dots are called Tikro or the Hindi '[Tilak](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tilaka \"Tilaka\")' (singular), or Tikra (plural).[\\[29\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-29)\n\nLike in India, in Sindh, when a child is born, black dots\/marks and lines are drawn on their faces. In modern times, stick-on bindiyas of different shapes and designs have become very common in rural Sindh, and are applied by both Muslims and Hindus. However, this is in decline as it is considered to be appropriately used by Sindhi Hindus only.\n\nBack in time in Sindh the brides were applied many dots of \"Tira\" (moles) drawn upon their face and lips with needles dipped in [antimony](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Antimony \"Antimony\") and other colouring matters.[\\[30\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-30)\n\nThe type of forehead tattoo called Khaal or Sheen Khal was also common among Afghan and [Pashtun](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pashtuns \"Pashtuns\") women,[\\[31\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-31)[\\[32\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-32) although it is no longer done for religious reasons. As in Sindh, dots are made using kohl or other material. Bindis are also used by [Saraiki](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Saraiki_people \"Saraiki people\") and some [Baloch](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Baloch_people \"Baloch people\") tribal women of Pakistan. However, many [Muhajir](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Muhajir_\$Pakistan\$ \"Muhajir (Pakistan)\") and [Punjabi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Punjabis \"Punjabis\") consider the use of bindis to be un-Islamic. Due to this, the use of bindis has declined in many urban areas of Pakistan.\n\n## Modern use\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Bindi&action=edit&section=6 \"Edit section: Modern use\")\\]\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/8\/8c\/2012-08_Woodstock_12.jpg\/250px-2012-08_Woodstock_12.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:2012-08_Woodstock_12.jpg)\n\nBindis and other religious affiliated markings are worn by recent Hindu converts like [Hare Krishnas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/International_Society_for_Krishna_Consciousness \"International Society for Krishna Consciousness\").[\\[33\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-33)\n\nBindis are sometimes worn purely for decorative purpose or style statement without any religious or cultural affiliation.[\\[34\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-34) Decorative and ornamental bindis were introduced to other parts of the world by immigrants from the Indian subcontinent.[\\[35\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-35) International celebrities such as [Gwen Stefani](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gwen_Stefani \"Gwen Stefani\"), [Julia Roberts](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Julia_Roberts \"Julia Roberts\"),[\\[36\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-36) [Madonna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Madonna_\$entertainer\$ \"Madonna (entertainer)\"),[\\[37\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-37) [Selena Gomez](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Selena_Gomez \"Selena Gomez\") and many others have been seen wearing bindis.[\\[38\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-38) The appropriateness of such uses has been disputed. Reacting to Gomez wearing a bindi while singing her song \"[Come and Get It](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Come_%26_Get_It_\$Selena_Gomez_song\$ \"Come & Get It (Selena Gomez song)\")\", Hindu leader [Rajan Zed](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rajan_Zed \"Rajan Zed\") said that the bindi has religious significance and should not be used as a fashion accessory,[\\[39\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-39) but Indian actress [Priyanka Chopra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Priyanka_Chopra \"Priyanka Chopra\") praised Gomez's choice as \"an embrace of Indian culture\".[\\[40\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-40) Additionally, several rappers have adopted jewelled bindis, most notably [Lil Uzi Vert](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lil_Uzi_Vert \"Lil Uzi Vert\"), who debuted a \\$24 million pink diamond bindi in February 2021. They were inspired by [Lil B](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lil_B \"Lil B\") who wore a diamond bindi in 2012.[\\[41\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-41)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/7\/7a\/Bindi_Tamil_Lady.jpg\/250px-Bindi_Tamil_Lady.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Bindi_Tamil_Lady.jpg)\n\nTamil woman wearing bindi\n\n## Alternative terms\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Bindi&action=edit&section=7 \"Edit section: Alternative terms\")\\]\n\nA bindi can also be called:[\\[42\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-42)\n\n- *Phot* or *Phut* (literally meaning a small pressing mark) in [Assamese](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Assamese_language \"Assamese language\")\n- *Tip* (literally meaning \"a pressing\") in [Bengali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bengali_language \"Bengali language\")\n- *Tikuli* (literally meaning \"a small [tika](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tilaka \"Tilaka\")\") in [Madhyadeshi areas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Madheshi_people \"Madheshi people\")\n- *Chandlo* (literally meaning moon shape) in [Gujarati](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gujarati_language \"Gujarati language\")\n- *[Tilaka](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tilak \"Tilak\")* in [Hindi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindi_language \"Hindi language\")\n- *Tika* in [Nepali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nepali_language \"Nepali language\")\n- *Kunkuma* or *Bottu* or *Tilaka* in [Kannada](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kannada_language \"Kannada language\")\n- *Tilakaya* in [Sinhala](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sinhala_language \"Sinhala language\")\n- *Tikli* in [Konkani](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Konkani_language \"Konkani language\")\n- *Kunkoo* or *Tikali* in [Marathi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Marathi_language \"Marathi language\")\n- *Tikili* in [Odia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Odia_language \"Odia language\")\n- *Bindi* in [Punjabi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Punjabi_language \"Punjabi language\") meaning long red mark\n- *Pottu* in [Tamil](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tamil_language \"Tamil language\") and [Malayalam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Malayalam_language \"Malayalam language\")\n- *Bottu*, *Kunkuma, or* *Tilakam* in [Telugu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Telugu_language \"Telugu language\")\n- *Tikli* in [Maithili](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maithili_language \"Maithili language\")\n- *Tyok* in [Kashmiri](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kashmiri_language \"Kashmiri language\")\n- *Tilkodi* in [Sindhi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sindhi_Language \"Sindhi Language\")\n\n## See also\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Bindi&action=edit&section=8 \"Edit section: See also\")\\]\n\n- [Huadian](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Huadian_\$make-up\$ \"Huadian (make-up)\"), a traditional Chinese forehead decoration\n- [Paklei Namsa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Paklei_Namsa \"Paklei Namsa\")\n- [Thirunamam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Thirunamam \"Thirunamam\")\n- [Tilaka](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tilaka \"Tilaka\")\n- [Urna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Urna \"Urna\")\n- [Vibhuti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vibhuti \"Vibhuti\"), sacred ash applied across the forehead\n\n## References\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Bindi&action=edit&section=9 \"Edit section: References\")\\]\n\n1. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-1)**\n   [\"History and Etymology for bindi\"](https:\/\/www.merriam-webster.com\/dictionary\/bindi). [Merriam-Webster](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Merriam-Webster \"Merriam-Webster\"). [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220116032943\/https:\/\/www.merriam-webster.com\/dictionary\/bindi) from the original on 16 January 2022. Retrieved 16 January 2022. \"borrowed from Hindi *bindī*, literally, \"dot, mark\" (or a cognate Indo-Aryan word), going back to the Middle Indo-Aryan and Sanskrit stem *bindu-* \"drop, spot,\" it's worn by Hindu, Buddhist, Jaina and some Sikhs\"\n2. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-2)**\n   [\"Bindi etymology\"](https:\/\/etymologeek.com\/eng\/bindi). Etymologeek. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20240914135842\/https:\/\/cooljugator.com\/etymology\/en\/bindi) from the original on 14 September 2024. Retrieved 16 January 2022. \"English word bindi comes from Hindi बिंदी\"\n3. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-Khanna_1979:_p.171_3-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-Khanna_1979:_p.171_3-1) Khanna 1979: p. 171\n4. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-4)**\n   Xiaoou, Yu (10 September 2014). [\"Guidelines for school entrance in ancient China\"](http:\/\/en.chinaculture.org\/chineseway\/2014-09\/10\/content_562942.htm). ChinaCulture.org. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20180930092952\/http:\/\/en.chinaculture.org\/chineseway\/2014-09\/10\/content_562942.htm) from the original on 30 September 2018. Retrieved 16 February 2018.\n5. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-Mercier_2007._p._267_5-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-Mercier_2007._p._267_5-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-Mercier_2007._p._267_5-2) [***d***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-Mercier_2007._p._267_5-3) Mercier (2007). p. 267.\n6. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-Swami_Ranganathananda_1991_21_6-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-Swami_Ranganathananda_1991_21_6-1)\n   [Swami Ranganathananda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ranganathananda \"Ranganathananda\") (1991). [*Human Being in Depth: A Scientific Approach to Religion*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=P0vfFZh9BIIC&q=Big+Bang+theory+and+Indian+philosophy&pg=PA21). SUNY Press. p. 21. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n   \n   [0791406792](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/0791406792 \"Special:BookSources\/0791406792\")\n   \n   .\n7. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-Shakya,_p._82-83_7-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-Shakya,_p._82-83_7-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-Shakya,_p._82-83_7-2) Shakya, pp. 82–83\n8. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-8)** *Southeast Asia: A Historical Encyclopedia, from Angkor Wat to East Timor*, by [Keat Gin Ooi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Keat_Gin_Ooi \"Keat Gin Ooi\") p. 642\n9. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-9)** *Hindu-Buddhist Architecture in Southeast Asia* by Daigorō Chihara p. 226\n10. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-10)**\n    [\"Couples Fuel India's Vibrant Art Scene\"](https:\/\/www.nytimes.com\/2011\/10\/14\/arts\/14iht-rartcouples14.html?pagewanted=2&_r=1&sq=bindi&st=cse&scp=1). *[The New York Times](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/The_New_York_Times \"The New York Times\")*. 13 October 2011. Retrieved 20 October 2011.\n11. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-nasadiya-suktha-and-purusha-suktha_11-0)**\n    [\"nasadiya-suktha-and-purusha-suktha\"](http:\/\/loudthinkingkeyargomes.blogspot.ca\/2012\/09\/nasadiya-suktha-and-purusha-suktha.html). 21 September 2012.\n12. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-12)**\n    M. Kenoyer, Jonathan (1998). *Ancient Cities of the Indus Valley Civilization* (1st ed.). Oxford University Press. p. 186. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [0195779401](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/0195779401 \"Special:BookSources\/0195779401\")\n    \n    .\n13. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-13)**\n    Pintchman, Tracy (2007). [*Women's Lives, Women's Rituals in the Hindu Tradition*](https:\/\/archive.org\/details\/womensliveswomen00pint). Oxford. pp. [90](https:\/\/archive.org\/details\/womensliveswomen00pint\/page\/n106)–97. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-0195177060](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0195177060 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0195177060\")\n    \n    .\n14. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-14)** *From Finite to Infinite*, by Swami Muktananda, SYDA Foundation, S. Fallsburg, New York, 1989, pp. 88–89\n15. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-15)** *Encyclopedic Dictionary of Yoga*, by Georg Fuerstein, Paragon House Publishers, New York, 1990, p. 15\n16. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-16)**\n    Bahadur, Om Lata (1996). [*The book of Hindu festivals and ceremonies*](https:\/\/archive.org\/details\/bookofhindufesti0000baha\/page\/168) (3rd ed.). New Delhi: UBS Publishers Distributors ltd. p. [168](https:\/\/archive.org\/details\/bookofhindufesti0000baha\/page\/168). [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [81-86112-23-5](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/81-86112-23-5 \"Special:BookSources\/81-86112-23-5\")\n    \n    .\n17. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-17)** Khadi and Village Industries Commission, Government of India\n18. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-hbc1_18-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-hbc1_18-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-hbc1_18-2)\n    Parvesh Handa, \"Home Beauty Clinic\", Pustak Mahal,\n    \n    [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [81-223-0099-5](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/81-223-0099-5 \"Special:BookSources\/81-223-0099-5\")\n19. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-19)**\n    [\"The Tribes and Castes of the Central Provinces of India—Volume IV\"](https:\/\/www.gutenberg.org\/files\/20668\/20668-h\/20668-h.htm).\n20. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-20)** Priyabala Shah (April 1986) \"Tilaka: Hindu marks on the forehead\", p.88\n21. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-gwynne_21-0)**\n    Gwynne, Paul (2009). [*World Religions in Practice: A Comparative Introduction*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=tdsRKc_knZoC&q=Sindoor+wedding+groom&pg=RA5-PT91). Maiden, MA: Blackwell Publishing. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [9781444360059](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/9781444360059 \"Special:BookSources\/9781444360059\")\n    \n    .\n22. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-22)**\n    Dhar, Shobha (11 April 2015). [\"Iodine bindis for tribal women to fight deficiency\"](https:\/\/timesofindia.indiatimes.com\/india\/Iodine-bindis-for-tribal-women-to-fight-deficiency\/articleshow\/46884611.cms). TNN. The Times of India. Retrieved 25 July 2015.\n23. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-23)**\n    চৌধুরী, মধুমন্তী (22 September 2015). [\"পুজোর বাজারে সাবেকি টিপ\"](https:\/\/www.anandabazar.com\/entertainment\/puja-fashion-on-teep-and-bindia-1.211756). *Anandabazar Online*. Retrieved 25 December 2023.\n24. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-24)**\n    [\"Teep\"](https:\/\/www.thedailystar.net\/tags\/teep).\n25. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-25)**\n    P.K.BALACHANDRAN (17 April 2019). [\"Bangladesh Asserts its Bengali Identity in Mass Celebration of Pohela Boishak\"](https:\/\/www.thecitizen.in\/index.php\/en\/NewsDetail\/index\/5\/16732\/Bangladesh-Asserts-its-Bengali-Identity-in-Mass-Celebration-of-Pohela-Boishak--). *www.thecitizen.in*. Retrieved 11 June 2023.\n26. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-26)**\n    [\"টিপটপ টিপ\"](https:\/\/www.kalerkantho.com\/feature\/a2z\/2020\/03\/22\/889166). *www.kalerkantho.com*. March 2020. Retrieved 11 June 2023.\n27. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-27)**\n    ইসলাম, সায়েদুল (2 April 2022). [\"বাঙালি নারীদের মধ্যে টিপ পরার প্রচলন শুরু হলো যেভাবে\"](https:\/\/www.bbc.com\/bengali\/news-60988562.amp). *BBC*. Retrieved 25 December 2023.\n28. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-28)** [Kalka](https:\/\/en.banglapedia.org\/index.php\/Kalka). *[Banglapedia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Banglapedia \"Banglapedia\")*.\n29. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-29)**\n    [\"ٽڪو2 : (Sindhianaسنڌيانا)\"](http:\/\/www.encyclopediasindhiana.org\/article.php?Dflt=%D9%BD%DA%AA%D9%882). *www.encyclopediasindhiana.org* (in Sindhi). Retrieved 25 January 2024.\n30. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-30)**\n    Burton, Sir Richard Francis (1851). [*Sindh, and the Races that Inhabit the Valley of the Indus*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=RZQMzQLsyk0C). W. H. Allen.\n31. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-31)**\n    [\"Khaal, The Tattoo of Afghan Womxn\"](https:\/\/www.herculture.org\/blog\/2021\/3\/31\/khaal-the-tattoo-of-afghan-womxn). *Her Culture*. 24 May 2021. Retrieved 11 June 2023.\n32. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-32)**\n    Khan, Moxet (25 November 2020). [\"Sheen Khal \/ blue tattoo are the Beauty Marks for Pakhtun females\"](https:\/\/pukhtoogle.com\/sheen-khal-blue-tattoo-are-the-beauty-marks-for-pakhtun-females\/). *Pukhtoogle*. Retrieved 11 June 2023.\n33. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-33)**\n    [\"Svami Sadananda Dasa: Disciple of Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati and Guru of Vamandas (Walther Eidlitz)\"](http:\/\/www.sadananda.com\/). *sadananda.com*. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20170926042014\/http:\/\/www.sadananda.com\/) from the original on 26 September 2017. Retrieved 1 October 2015.\n34. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-34)** [Khu phố Little India ở Artesia](http:\/\/arquivo.pt\/wayback\/20160522184733\/http:\/\/www.nguoi-viet.com\/absolutenm2\/templates\/?a=139901&z=268), *Nguoi Viet Online*, 11 November 2011, Retrieved 22 November 2011\n35. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-35)** [Juventud organiza un mercadillo solidario a beneficio de la Fundación Vicente Ferrer](http:\/\/www.elperiodic.com\/denia\/noticias\/146263_juventud-organiza-mercadillo-solidario-beneficio-fundacion-vicente-ferrer.html) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20120407012251\/http:\/\/www.elperiodic.com\/denia\/noticias\/146263_juventud-organiza-mercadillo-solidario-beneficio-fundacion-vicente-ferrer.html) 7 April 2012 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\"), *elperiodic.com*, 17 November 2011. Retrieved 22 November 2011\n36. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-36)**\n    [\"'Pretty Woman' in temple upset\"](https:\/\/news.bbc.co.uk\/2\/hi\/south_asia\/8270556.stm). *BBC News*. 23 September 2009. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20090929194226\/http:\/\/news.bbc.co.uk\/2\/hi\/south_asia\/8270556.stm) from the original on 29 September 2009. Retrieved 26 April 2010.\n37. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-37)**\n    [\"Try a bindi now with Western wear\"](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20120330081155\/http:\/\/punjabnewsline.com\/content\/try-bindi-now-western-wear\/29719). *Punjab Newsline*. 6 October 2011. Archived from [the original](http:\/\/punjabnewsline.com\/content\/try-bindi-now-western-wear\/29719) on 30 March 2012. Retrieved 20 October 2011.\n38. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-38)**\n    [\"Should Selena Gomez apologize for wearing a bindi at the MTV Movie\"](https:\/\/www.today.com\/popculture\/selena-gomez-causes-controversy-wearing-bindi-mtv-movie-awards-I533548). 17 April 2013.\n39. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-39)**\n    Sieczkowski, Cavan (16 April 2013). [\"Selena Gomez Bindi: Hindu Leaders Demand Apology For MTV Movie Awards Costume\"](https:\/\/www.huffingtonpost.com\/2013\/04\/16\/selena-gomez-bindi-mtv-movie-awards_n_3092129.html). *[Huffington Post](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Huffington_Post \"Huffington Post\")*. Retrieved 25 September 2015.\n40. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-40)**\n    DelliCarpini, Gregory Jr. (22 May 2013). [\"Selena Gomez's Bindi Styling: Offensive? Bollywood Star Priyanka Chopra Talks About the Star's Usage\"](https:\/\/www.billboard.com\/music\/music-news\/selena-gomezs-bindi-styling-offensive-bollywood-star-priyanka-1563147\/). *[Billboard](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Billboard_\$magazine\$ \"Billboard (magazine)\")*. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20150924215913\/http:\/\/www.billboard.com\/articles\/columns\/the-hook\/1563147\/selena-gomezs-bindi-styling-offensive-bollywood-star-priyanka) from the original on 24 September 2015. Retrieved 25 September 2015.\n41. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-41)**\n    [\"Lil Uzi Vert's \\$24 Million Forehead Diamond Was Inspired by Lil B\"](https:\/\/exclaim.ca\/music\/article\/lil_uzi_verts_24_million_forehead_diamond_was_inspired_by_lil_b). *exclaim.ca*. Retrieved 17 February 2021.\n42. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-42)**\n    [\"Dazzling bindis\"](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20111012051854\/http:\/\/lifestyle.in.msn.com\/gallery\/Photoviewer.aspx?cp-documentid=4248259). *MSN India*. 10 October 2011. Archived from [the original](https:\/\/lifestyle.in.msn.com\/gallery\/photoviewer.aspx?cp-documentid=4248259) on 12 October 2011. Retrieved 20 October 2011.\n\n## External links\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Bindi&action=edit&section=10 \"Edit section: External links\")\\]\n\n[![logo](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/en\/thumb\/4\/4a\/Commons-logo.svg\/40px-Commons-logo.svg.png)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Commons-logo.svg)\n\nWikimedia Commons has media related to [Bindi](https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Bindi \"commons:Category:Bindi\").\n\n| [v](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template:Jewellery \"Template:Jewellery\") [t](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Template_talk:Jewellery \"Template talk:Jewellery\") [e](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:EditPage\/Template:Jewellery \"Special:EditPage\/Template:Jewellery\")[Jewellery](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jewellery \"Jewellery\") |   |\n|---|---|\n| [Forms](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/List_of_jewellery_types \"List of jewellery types\") | [Anklet](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Anklet \"Anklet\") [Barrette](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hair_clip \"Hair clip\") [Belly chain](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Belly_chain \"Belly chain\") [Belt buckle](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Belt_buckle \"Belt buckle\") [Bindi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi_\$decoration\$ \"Bindi (decoration)\") [Bolo tie](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bolo_tie \"Bolo tie\") [Bracelet](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bracelet \"Bracelet\") [Brooch](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Brooch \"Brooch\") [Chain](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jewellery_chain \"Jewellery chain\") [Chatelaine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chatelaine_\$chain\$ \"Chatelaine (chain)\") [Collar pin](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Collar_pin \"Collar pin\") [Crown](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Crown \"Crown\") [Cufflink](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Cufflink \"Cufflink\") [Earring](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Earring \"Earring\") [Ferronnière](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ferronni%C3%A8re \"Ferronnière\") [Lapel pin](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lapel_pin \"Lapel pin\") [Necklace](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Necklace \"Necklace\") [Neck ring](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Neck_ring \"Neck ring\") [Pectoral](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pectoral_\$Ancient_Egypt\$ \"Pectoral (Ancient Egypt)\") [Pendant](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pendant \"Pendant\") [Permanent jewellery](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Permanent_jewellery \"Permanent jewellery\") [Ring](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ring_\$jewellery\$ \"Ring (jewellery)\") [Tiara](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tiara \"Tiara\") [Tie chain](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tie_chain \"Tie chain\") [Tie clip](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tie_clip \"Tie clip\") [Tie pin](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tie_pin \"Tie pin\") [Toe ring](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Toe_ring \"Toe ring\") [Watch](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Watch \"Watch\") [pocket](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pocket_watch \"Pocket watch\") [strap](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Watch_strap \"Watch strap\") |\n| Making |   |\n|   |   |\n| People | [Bench jeweler](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bench_jeweler \"Bench jeweler\") [Clockmaker](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Clockmaker \"Clockmaker\") [Goldsmith](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Goldsmith \"Goldsmith\") [Jewellery designer](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jewellery_design \"Jewellery design\") [Lapidarist](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lapidary \"Lapidary\") [Silversmith](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Silversmith \"Silversmith\") [Watchmaker](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Watchmaker \"Watchmaker\") |\n| Processes | [Carving](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Cameo_\$carving\$ \"Cameo (carving)\") [Casting](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Metal_casting \"Metal casting\") [centrifugal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Centrifugal_casting_\$silversmithing\$ \"Centrifugal casting (silversmithing)\") [lost-wax](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lost-wax_casting \"Lost-wax casting\") [vacuum](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Metal_casting \"Metal casting\") [Enameling](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vitreous_enamel \"Vitreous enamel\") [Engraving](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Engraved_gem \"Engraved gem\") [Filigree](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Filigree \"Filigree\") [Foldforming](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Foldforming \"Foldforming\") [Jewelry model](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jewelry_model \"Jewelry model\") [Metal clay](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Metal_clay \"Metal clay\") [Plating](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Plating \"Plating\") [Polishing](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Polishing_\$metalworking\$ \"Polishing (metalworking)\") [Repoussé and chasing](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Repouss%C3%A9_and_chasing \"Repoussé and chasing\") [Soldering](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Soldering \"Soldering\") [Stonesetting](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Stonesetting \"Stonesetting\") [Wire sculpture](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wire_sculpture \"Wire sculpture\") [Wire wrapped jewelry](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wire_wrapped_jewelry \"Wire wrapped jewelry\") |\n| Tools | [Draw plate](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Draw_plate \"Draw plate\") [File](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File_\$tool\$ \"File (tool)\") [Hammer](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hammer \"Hammer\") [Mandrel](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mandrel \"Mandrel\") [Pliers](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pliers \"Pliers\") |\n| Materials |   |\n|   |   |\n| [Precious metals](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Precious_metal \"Precious metal\") | [Gold](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gold \"Gold\") [Palladium](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Palladium \"Palladium\") [Platinum](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Platinum \"Platinum\") [Rhodium](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rhodium \"Rhodium\") [Silver](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Silver \"Silver\") |\n| Precious metal [alloys](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Alloy \"Alloy\") | [Britannia silver](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Britannia_silver \"Britannia silver\") [Colored gold](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Colored_gold \"Colored gold\") [Crown gold](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Crown_gold \"Crown gold\") [Electrum](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Electrum \"Electrum\") [Shakudō](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shakud%C5%8D \"Shakudō\") [Shibuichi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shibuichi \"Shibuichi\") [Sterling silver](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sterling_silver \"Sterling silver\") [Argentium](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Argentium_sterling_silver \"Argentium sterling silver\") [Tumbaga](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tumbaga \"Tumbaga\") |\n| [Base metals](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Base_metal \"Base metal\") | [Brass](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Brass \"Brass\") [Bronze](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bronze \"Bronze\") [Copper](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Copper \"Copper\") [Mokume-gane](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mokume-gane \"Mokume-gane\") [Nickel silver (alpacca)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nickel_silver \"Nickel silver\"): [Niobium](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Niobium \"Niobium\") [Pewter](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pewter \"Pewter\") [Pinchbeck](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pinchbeck_\$alloy\$ \"Pinchbeck (alloy)\") [Stainless steel](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Stainless_steel \"Stainless steel\") [Titanium](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Titanium \"Titanium\") [Tungsten](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tungsten \"Tungsten\") |\n| Mineral [gemstones](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gemstone \"Gemstone\") | [Agate](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Agate \"Agate\") [Amazonite](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Amazonite \"Amazonite\") [Amethyst](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Amethyst \"Amethyst\") [Aventurine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Aventurine \"Aventurine\") [Beryl](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Beryl \"Beryl\") ([red](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Red_beryl \"Red beryl\")) [Carnelian](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Carnelian \"Carnelian\") [Chrysoberyl](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chrysoberyl \"Chrysoberyl\") [Chrysocolla](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chrysocolla \"Chrysocolla\") [Citrine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Citrine_\$quartz\$ \"Citrine (quartz)\") [Diamond](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diamond \"Diamond\") [Diopside](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Diopside \"Diopside\") [Emerald](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Emerald \"Emerald\") [Fluorite](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fluorite \"Fluorite\") [Garnet](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Garnet \"Garnet\") [Howlite](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Howlite \"Howlite\") [Jade](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jade \"Jade\") [Jasper](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jasper \"Jasper\") [Kyanite](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kyanite \"Kyanite\") [Labradorite](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Labradorite \"Labradorite\") [Lapis lazuli](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lapis_lazuli \"Lapis lazuli\") [Larimar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Larimar \"Larimar\") [Malachite](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Malachite \"Malachite\") [Marcasite](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Marcasite_jewellery \"Marcasite jewellery\") [Moonstone](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Moonstone_\$gemstone\$ \"Moonstone (gemstone)\") [Obsidian](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Obsidian \"Obsidian\") [Onyx](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Onyx \"Onyx\") [Opal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Opal \"Opal\") [Peridot](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Peridot \"Peridot\") [Prasiolite](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Prasiolite \"Prasiolite\") [Quartz](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Quartz \"Quartz\") ([smoky](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Smoky_quartz \"Smoky quartz\")) [Ruby](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ruby \"Ruby\") [Sapphire](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sapphire \"Sapphire\") [Sodalite](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sodalite \"Sodalite\") [Spinel](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Spinel \"Spinel\") [Sunstone](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sunstone \"Sunstone\") [Tanzanite](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tanzanite \"Tanzanite\") [Tiger's eye](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tiger%27s_eye \"Tiger's eye\") [Topaz](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Topaz \"Topaz\") [Tourmaline](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tourmaline \"Tourmaline\") [Turquoise](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Turquoise \"Turquoise\") [Variscite](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Variscite \"Variscite\") [Zircon](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Zircon \"Zircon\") |\n| Organic gemstones | [Abalone](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Abalone \"Abalone\") [Amber](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Amber \"Amber\") [Ammolite](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ammolite \"Ammolite\") [Copal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Copal \"Copal\") [Coral](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Coral \"Coral\") [Black](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Black_coral \"Black coral\") [Precious](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Precious_coral \"Precious coral\") [Ivory](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ivory \"Ivory\") [Jet](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jet_\$gemstone\$ \"Jet (gemstone)\") [Nacre](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nacre \"Nacre\") [Operculum](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Operculum_\$gastropod\$ \"Operculum (gastropod)\") [Pearl](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pearl \"Pearl\") [Tortoiseshell](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tortoiseshell \"Tortoiseshell\") |\n| Other natural objects | [Bezoar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bezoar \"Bezoar\") [Bog-wood](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bog-wood \"Bog-wood\") [Ebonite (vulcanite)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ebonite \"Ebonite\") [Gutta-percha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gutta-percha \"Gutta-percha\") [Hair](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hair_jewellery \"Hair jewellery\") [Shell](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Shell_jewelry \"Shell jewelry\") [Spondylus shell](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Spondylus \"Spondylus\") [Toadstone](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Toadstone \"Toadstone\") |\n| Terms | [Art jewelry](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Art_jewelry \"Art jewelry\") [Carat](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Carat_\$mass\$ \"Carat (mass)\") (mass) [Carat](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fineness#Carat \"Fineness\") (purity) [Finding](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Finding_\$jewelcrafting\$ \"Finding (jewelcrafting)\") [Fineness](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fineness \"Fineness\") |\n| Related topics [Body piercing](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Body_piercing \"Body piercing\") [Fashion](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Fashion \"Fashion\") [Gemology](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gemology \"Gemology\") [Metalworking](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Metalworking \"Metalworking\") [Phaleristics](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Phaleristics \"Phaleristics\") [Wearable art](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wearable_art \"Wearable art\") |   |\n\n| [Authority control databases](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Help:Authority_control \"Help:Authority control\") [![Edit this at Wikidata](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/en\/thumb\/8\/8a\/OOjs_UI_icon_edit-ltr-progressive.svg\/20px-OOjs_UI_icon_edit-ltr-progressive.svg.png)](https:\/\/www.wikidata.org\/wiki\/Q747901#identifiers \"Edit this at Wikidata\") |   |\n|---|---|\n| National | [United States](https:\/\/id.loc.gov\/authorities\/sh90001429) [Israel](https:\/\/www.nli.org.il\/en\/authorities\/987007549069005171) |\n| Other | [Yale LUX](https:\/\/lux.collections.yale.edu\/view\/concept\/ad0cab02-b3c7-44da-8316-ed5cc6e2cd6d) |\n\n![](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:CentralAutoLogin\/start?useformat=desktop&type=1x1&usesul3=1)\n\nRetrieved from \"<https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Bindi&oldid=1343395290>\"\n\n[Categories](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Help:Category \"Help:Category\"):\n\n- [Body art](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Body_art \"Category:Body art\")\n- [Cosmetics](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Cosmetics \"Category:Cosmetics\")\n- [Culture of India](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Culture_of_India \"Category:Culture of India\")\n- [Red symbols](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Red_symbols \"Category:Red symbols\")\n- [Types of jewellery](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Types_of_jewellery \"Category:Types of jewellery\")\n- [Desi culture](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Desi_culture \"Category:Desi culture\")\n\nHidden categories:\n\n- [CS1 Sindhi-language sources (sd)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:CS1_Sindhi-language_sources_\$sd\$ \"Category:CS1 Sindhi-language sources (sd)\")\n- [Webarchive template wayback links](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Webarchive_template_wayback_links \"Category:Webarchive template wayback links\")\n- [Articles with short description](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Articles_with_short_description \"Category:Articles with short description\")\n- [Short description is different from Wikidata](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Short_description_is_different_from_Wikidata \"Category:Short description is different from Wikidata\")\n- [Use British English from February 2017](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Use_British_English_from_February_2017 \"Category:Use British English from February 2017\")\n- [All Wikipedia articles written in British English](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:All_Wikipedia_articles_written_in_British_English \"Category:All Wikipedia articles written in British English\")\n- [Use dmy dates from February 2017](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Use_dmy_dates_from_February_2017 \"Category:Use dmy dates from February 2017\")\n- [Pages using multiple image with manual scaled images](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Pages_using_multiple_image_with_manual_scaled_images \"Category:Pages using multiple image with manual scaled images\")\n- [Commons category link is on Wikidata](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Commons_category_link_is_on_Wikidata \"Category:Commons category link is on Wikidata\")\n\n- This page was last edited on 14 March 2026, at 01:21 (UTC).\n- Text is available under the [Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 License](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wikipedia:Text_of_the_Creative_Commons_Attribution-ShareAlike_4.0_International_License \"Wikipedia:Text of the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike 4.0 International License\"); additional terms may apply. By using this site, you agree to the [Terms of Use](https:\/\/foundation.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/Special:MyLanguage\/Policy:Terms_of_Use \"foundation:Special:MyLanguage\/Policy:Terms of Use\") and [Privacy Policy](https:\/\/foundation.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/Special:MyLanguage\/Policy:Privacy_policy \"foundation:Special:MyLanguage\/Policy:Privacy policy\"). Wikipedia® is a registered trademark of the [Wikimedia Foundation, Inc.](https:\/\/wikimediafoundation.org\/), a non-profit organization.\n\n- [Privacy policy](https:\/\/foundation.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/Special:MyLanguage\/Policy:Privacy_policy)\n- [About Wikipedia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wikipedia:About)\n- [Disclaimers](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wikipedia:General_disclaimer)\n- [Contact Wikipedia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wikipedia:Contact_us)\n- [Legal & safety contacts](https:\/\/foundation.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/Special:MyLanguage\/Legal:Wikimedia_Foundation_Legal_and_Safety_Contact_Information)\n- [Code of Conduct](https:\/\/foundation.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/Special:MyLanguage\/Policy:Universal_Code_of_Conduct)\n- [Developers](https:\/\/developer.wikimedia.org\/)\n- [Statistics](https:\/\/stats.wikimedia.org\/#\/en.wikipedia.org)\n- [Cookie statement](https:\/\/foundation.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/Special:MyLanguage\/Policy:Cookie_statement)\n- [Mobile view](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Bindi&mobileaction=toggle_view_mobile)\n\n- [![Wikimedia Foundation](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/static\/images\/footer\/wikimedia.svg)](https:\/\/www.wikimedia.org\/)\n- [![Powered by MediaWiki](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/resources\/assets\/mediawiki_compact.svg)](https:\/\/www.mediawiki.org\/)\n\nSearch\n\nToggle the table of contents\n\nBindi\n\n38 languages\n\n[Add topic](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi)","attrs_readable_markdown":"From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/4\/42\/Kullu_Himachal_Pradesh_India_Woman.jpg\/250px-Kullu_Himachal_Pradesh_India_Woman.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Kullu_Himachal_Pradesh_India_Woman.jpg)\n\nHindu woman in [Kullu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kullu \"Kullu\"), Himachal Pradesh wearing a stick-on bindi\n\nA **bindi** (from [Sanskrit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sanskrit \"Sanskrit\") *[bindú](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindu_\$symbol\$ \"Bindu (symbol)\")* meaning \"point, drop, dot or small particle\")[\\[1\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-1)[\\[2\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-2) is a coloured dot or, in modern times, a [sticker](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sticker \"Sticker\") worn on the centre of the forehead, by Hindus, Jains and Buddhists from the [Indian subcontinent](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indian_subcontinent \"Indian subcontinent\") in place of the [tilak](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tilaka \"Tilaka\"). While modern stick-on bindis are worn by many women following Indian religions, they may also use [sandalwood](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sandalwood \"Sandalwood\") paste or create a tilak using [kajal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kohl_\$cosmetics\$ \"Kohl (cosmetics)\") as is the original practice followed by both men and women.\n\nA bindi is a bright dot of some colour applied in the centre of the forehead close to the [eyebrows](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Eyebrow \"Eyebrow\") or in the middle of the forehead that is worn in the Indian subcontinent (particularly amongst female Hindus in [India](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/India \"India\"), [Nepal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nepal \"Nepal\"), [Bhutan](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bhutan \"Bhutan\"), [Bangladesh](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bangladesh \"Bangladesh\") and [Sri Lanka](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sri_Lanka \"Sri Lanka\"))[\\[3\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-Khanna_1979:_p.171-3) and Southeast Asia among [Balinese](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Balinese_people \"Balinese people\"), [Javanese](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Javanese_people \"Javanese people\"), [Sundanese](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sundanese_people \"Sundanese people\"), [Malaysian](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hinduism_in_Malaysia \"Hinduism in Malaysia\"), [Singaporean](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hinduism_in_Singapore \"Hinduism in Singapore\"), [Vietnamese](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hinduism_in_Vietnam \"Hinduism in Vietnam\"), and [Myanmar](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hinduism_in_Myanmar \"Hinduism in Myanmar\") Hindus. A similar marking is also worn by babies and children in [China](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/China \"China\") and, as in the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, represents the opening of the [third eye](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Third_eye \"Third eye\").[\\[4\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-4) In [Hinduism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hinduism \"Hinduism\"), [Buddhism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Buddhism \"Buddhism\"), and [Jainism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Jainism \"Jainism\") the bindi is associated with the [ajna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ajna \"Ajna\") [chakra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chakra \"Chakra\"), and [Bindu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindu_\$symbol\$ \"Bindu (symbol)\")[\\[5\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-Mercier_2007._p._267-5) is known as the [third eye](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Third_eye \"Third eye\") chakra. [Bindu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindu_\$symbol\$ \"Bindu (symbol)\") is the point or dot around which the [mandala](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mandala \"Mandala\") is created, representing the universe.[\\[6\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-Swami_Ranganathananda_1991_21-6)[\\[7\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-Shakya,_p._82-83-7) The bindi has a religious, historical and cultural presence in the region of [India](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/India \"India\") and with the Hindu, [Indian diaspora](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indian_diaspora \"Indian diaspora\") around the world.[\\[8\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-8)[\\[9\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-9) However, non-Hindu women in South Asian region may also wear bindi for fashion, good luck & beauty.\n\n## Religious significance\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Bindi&action=edit&section=1 \"Edit section: Religious significance\")\\]\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/7\/7d\/Ajna_chakra.svg\/250px-Ajna_chakra.svg.png)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Ajna_chakra.svg)\n\n[Ajna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ajna \"Ajna\") chakra has two lotus petals dedicated to the sun, the other to the moon (e.g. light and dark, or male and female) merged at the centre.\n\nTraditionally, the area between the eyebrows (where the bindi is placed) is said to be the sixth [chakra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chakra \"Chakra\"), *[ajna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ajna \"Ajna\")*, the seat of \"concealed wisdom.\" The bindi is said to retain energy and strengthen concentration. The bindi also represents the [third eye](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Third_eye \"Third eye\").[\\[10\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-10) The [Nasadiya Sukta](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nasadiya_Sukta \"Nasadiya Sukta\") of the Rig Veda, the earliest known Sanskrit text, mentions the word *[Bindu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindu_\$symbol\$ \"Bindu (symbol)\")*.[\\[11\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-nasadiya-suktha-and-purusha-suktha-11)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/b\/b0\/Female_figure_with_hair_ornaments%2C_terracotta%2C_200-250_BCE.jpg\/250px-Female_figure_with_hair_ornaments%2C_terracotta%2C_200-250_BCE.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Female_figure_with_hair_ornaments,_terracotta,_200-250_BCE.jpg)\n\nFemale figure with bindi ornament, terracotta, 200–250 BCE\n\nThe [Ajna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ajna \"Ajna\") is symbolised by a [sacred lotus](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nelumbo_nucifera \"Nelumbo nucifera\") with two petals, and corresponds to the colours violet, indigo or deep blue, though it is traditionally described as white. It is at this point that the two sides Nadi [Ida (yoga)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ida_\$yoga\$ \"Ida (yoga)\") and Pingala are said to terminate and merge with the central channel Sushumna, signifying the end of duality, the characteristic of being dual (e.g. *light* and *dark*, or *male* and *female*). The [seed syllable](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/B%C4%ABja \"Bīja\") for this chakra is the syllable OM, and the presiding deity is [Ardhanarishvara](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ardhanarishvara \"Ardhanarishvara\"), who is a half male, half female Shiva\/Shakti. The Shakti goddess of Ajna is called Hakini. In metaphysics, [Bindu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindu_\$symbol\$ \"Bindu (symbol)\") is considered the dot or point at which creation begins and may become unity. It is also described as \"the sacred symbol of the cosmos in its unmanifested state\".[\\[3\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-Khanna_1979:_p.171-3)[\\[6\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-Swami_Ranganathananda_1991_21-6) Bindu is the point around which the [mandala](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mandala \"Mandala\") is created, representing the universe.[\\[7\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-Shakya,_p._82-83-7) [Ajna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ajna \"Ajna\")'s key issues involve balancing the higher and lower selves and trusting inner guidance. Ajna's inner aspect relates to the access of intuition. Mentally, Ajna deals with visual consciousness. Emotionally, [Ajna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ajna \"Ajna\") deals with clarity on an intuitive level.[\\[5\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-Mercier_2007._p._267-5)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/3\/33\/Prajnaparamita_Java.jpg\/250px-Prajnaparamita_Java.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Prajnaparamita_Java.jpg)\n\nGoddess Tara depicted with [Ajna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ajna \"Ajna\") *[Bhrumadhya Bindu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindu_\$symbol\$ \"Bindu (symbol)\")* known as *inner gaze*. Bhrumadhya is the point in the centre of the forehead commonly referred to as the third eye, or centre of consciousness.[\\[5\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-Mercier_2007._p._267-5)\n\nIn Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, bindi is associated with Ajna Chakra and [Bindu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindu_\$symbol\$ \"Bindu (symbol)\").[\\[5\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-Mercier_2007._p._267-5) Divinities in these religions are typically depicted with *Bhrumadhya [Bindu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindu_\$symbol\$ \"Bindu (symbol)\")*, in meditative pose with their eyes nearly closed show the gaze focused between eyebrows, other spot being the tip of the nose—Naasikagra. The very spot between the eyebrows known as Bhrumadhya is where one focuses one's sight, so that it helps concentration.[\\[7\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-Shakya,_p._82-83-7)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/1\/1f\/Yakshi._Bharhut%2C_Satna%2C_C._2nd_cent_BC._Bhopal_Museum.jpg\/250px-Yakshi._Bharhut%2C_Satna%2C_C._2nd_cent_BC._Bhopal_Museum.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Yakshi._Bharhut,_Satna,_C._2nd_cent_BC._Bhopal_Museum.jpg)\n\nRelief from stupa, 2nd century B.C. Only female figures were marked with the [sacred lotus](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nelumbo_nucifera \"Nelumbo nucifera\") during this period\n\nThe bindi has multiple meanings:\n\n- Archaeology has yielded clay female figurines from the Indus Valley with red pigment on the forehead and hair parting. It is unclear whether this held any religious or cultural significance.[\\[12\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-12)\n- In Hinduism, the colour red represents honour, love, and prosperity, hence bindis are worn to symbolise these qualities after marriage in particular.[\\[13\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-13)\n- In meditation, the point between the eyebrows (Bhrumadhya) is where one focuses one's sight, to help concentration. Most images of Hindu, Jain or Buddhist divinities in meditative poses with their eyes nearly closed show the gaze focused between the eyebrows (another spot being the tip of the nose—naasikagra)\n- Swami Muktananda writes that \"auspicious [Kumkuma](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kumkum \"Kumkum\") or sandalwood paste is applied (between the eyebrows) out of respect for the inner Guru. It is the Guru's seat. There is a chakra (centre of spiritual energy within the human body) here called Ajna chakra, meaning 'Command centre'. Here is received the Guru's command to go higher in Sadhana (spiritual practice) to the 'Sahasraar' (seventh and final chakra) which leads to Self-realisation. The flame seen at the eyebrow is called 'Guru Jyoti'.\"[\\[14\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-14)\n- The encyclopaedic *Dictionary of Yoga* reports that this 'Ajna Chakra' is also called the 'Third eye'. This centre is connected with the sacred syllable '[Om](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Om \"Om\")' and presiding, is '[Parashiva](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Parashiva \"Parashiva\")'. On activating this centre, the aspirant overcomes '[Ahankāra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ahamkara \"Ahamkara\")' (the ego or sense of individuality), the last stop on the path of spirituality.[\\[15\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-15)\n\nThe bindi continues to hold symbolic significance rooted in Indian mythology and is traditionally associated with Hindu culture. \"wearing a bindi or mangalsutra is a sign of Hindu women. The traditional bindi still represents and preserves the symbolic significance that is integrated into Indian mythology in many parts of India.\"\n\n## Traditional application method\n\\[[edit](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/w\/index.php?title=Bindi&action=edit&section=2 \"Edit section: Traditional application method\")\\]\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/3\/3c\/HinduBrideIndia.jpg\/250px-HinduBrideIndia.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:HinduBrideIndia.jpg)\n\nBride with decorative bindis and *maang tika* between hair parting where married women apply [sindoor](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sindoor \"Sindoor\")\n\nA traditional bindi is red or maroon in colour as it mimics [sindoor](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sindoor \"Sindoor\") or [kumkum](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kumkuma \"Kumkuma\") which is used as part Hindu religious ceremonies and rituals along with [sandalwood](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sandalwood \"Sandalwood\"), [turmeric](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Turmeric \"Turmeric\") and ash. A pinch of vermilion powder is applied with a ring-finger to make a dot. A small annular disc aids application for beginners. First, a sticky wax paste is applied through the empty centre of the disc. This is then covered with kumkum or vermilion and then the disc is removed to get a round bindi. Various materials such as [lac](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lac_\$resin\$ \"Lac (resin)\"), sandal, \"aguru\", [mica](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Mica \"Mica\"), \"kasturi\", kumkum (made of red turmeric) and [sindoor](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sindoor \"Sindoor\") colour the dot. Saffron ground together with [\"kusumba\" flower](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Safflower \"Safflower\") can also work. Traditionally they are green in colour with a red dot in the middle.[\\[16\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-16) The bindi is no longer restricted in colour or shape.[\\[17\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-17)[\\[18\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-hbc1-18)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/e\/e5\/Lac_Bindis.jpg\/250px-Lac_Bindis.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Lac_Bindis.jpg)\n\nOrnamental bindis were made and sold by [lac](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lac_\$resin\$ \"Lac (resin)\") workers known as [Lakhera](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lakhera \"Lakhera\").\n\nHistorically, the ornamental bindi spangle consists of a small piece of lac over which is smeared vermilion, while above it a piece of mica or thin glass is fixed for ornament. Women wore large spangles set in gold with a border of jewels if they could afford it. The bindi was made and sold by lac workers known as [Lakhera](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lakhera \"Lakhera\").[\\[19\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-19) In Hinduism, it's part of the *Suhāg* or *lucky trousseau* at marriages and is affixed to the girl's forehead on her wedding and thereafter always worn.[\\[18\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-hbc1-18) Unmarried girls optionally wore small ornamental spangles on their foreheads. A widow was not allowed to wear bindi or any ornamentation associated with married women.[\\[18\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-hbc1-18) In modern times, self-adhesive bindis are available in various materials, usually made of felt or thin metal and adhesive on the other side. These are simple to apply, disposable substitutes for older lac tikli bindis. Sticker bindis come in many colours, designs, materials, and sizes.\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/a\/a0\/Maker_unknown%2C_India_-_Krishna_and_Radha_-_Google_Art_Project.jpg\/250px-Maker_unknown%2C_India_-_Krishna_and_Radha_-_Google_Art_Project.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Maker_unknown,_India_-_Krishna_and_Radha_-_Google_Art_Project.jpg)\n\nCourtesan [Bani Thani](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bani_Thani \"Bani Thani\") as [Radha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Radha \"Radha\") with ornamental bindi spangle,\n\nc.\n\n1750\n\nThere are different regional variations of the bindi. In Maharashtra a large [crescent moon](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Crescent \"Crescent\") shaped bindi is worn with a smaller black dot underneath or above, associated with *[Chandrabindu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Chandrabindu \"Chandrabindu\")* and *[Bindu chakra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindu_\$symbol\$ \"Bindu (symbol)\")* represented by crescent moon, they are commonly known as *Chandrakor* in this region, outside Maharashtra they are popularly known as *Marathi bindi*. In Bengal region a large round red bindi is worn, brides in this region are often decorated with *Alpana* design on forehead and cheeks, along with bindi. In southern India a smaller red bindi is worn with a white tilak at the bottom, another common type is a red [tilak](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tilaka \"Tilaka\") shaped bindi. In Rajasthan the bindi is often worn round. Long [tilak](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tilaka \"Tilaka\") shaped bindi are also common, as well as the crescent moon on some occasions. Decorative bindis have become popular among women in South Asia, regardless of religious background. Bindis are a staple and symbolic for women in the Indian subcontinent.[\\[20\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-20)\n\nIn addition to the bindi, in India, a [vermilion](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vermilion \"Vermilion\") mark in the parting of the hair just above the forehead is worn by married women as a symbol of life-long commitment to their husbands. During all Hindu marriage ceremonies, the groom applies sindoor in the part in the bride's hair.[\\[21\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-gwynne-21)\n\nApart from their cosmetic use, bindis have found a modern medical application in India. Iodine patch bindis have often been used among women in north-west Maharashtra to battle iodine deficiency.[\\[22\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-22)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/7\/78\/Bali-Danse_0717a.jpg\/250px-Bali-Danse_0717a.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Bali-Danse_0717a.jpg)\n\nA [Balinese](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Balinese_people \"Balinese people\") dancer with a white bindi\n\nIn [Southeast Asia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Southeast_Asia \"Southeast Asia\"), bindis are worn by the [Balinese](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Balinese_people \"Balinese people\"), [Javanese](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Javanese_people \"Javanese people\"), and [Sundanese people](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sundanese_people \"Sundanese people\") of [Indonesia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indonesia \"Indonesia\"). For example, bindis are often worn by brides and grooms in [Java](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Java \"Java\") and other parts of [Indonesia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Indonesia \"Indonesia\"), regardless of their religious beliefs.\n\nThe Indonesian practice of wearing a bindi originated from the cultural influence brought about by the [Indianized](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Greater_India \"Greater India\") Hindu kingdoms that once ruled Indonesia. Historically, other Indianized kingdoms in [Southeast Asia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Southeast_Asia \"Southeast Asia\") also took part in this practice.\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/b\/bf\/Festival_of_Colors_%287409586600%29.jpg\/250px-Festival_of_Colors_%287409586600%29.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Festival_of_Colors_\$7409586600\$.jpg)\n\n[Bengali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bengalis \"Bengalis\") girl from [Bangladesh](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bangladesh \"Bangladesh\") wearing Teep on the occasion of [Pohela Boishakh](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pohela_Boishakh \"Pohela Boishakh\")\n\n**Teep** or **tip**, similar to bindis, are part of [Bengali culture](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bengali_culture \"Bengali culture\") and women in [West Bengal, India](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/West_Bengal \"West Bengal\") and [Bangladesh](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bangladesh \"Bangladesh\"), irrespective of their religion, adorn themselves with teeps as an ethnic practice.[\\[23\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-23)[\\[24\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-24)[\\[25\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-25)[\\[26\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-26) By the 18th century the use of teeps had become very common.[\\[27\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-27) It's popular in celebrations like [Durga Puja](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Durga_Puja \"Durga Puja\"), [Pohela Boishakh](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pohela_Boishakh \"Pohela Boishakh\"), [Pohela Falgun](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pohela_Falgun \"Pohela Falgun\"), [Eid al-Fitr](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Eid_al-Fitr \"Eid al-Fitr\"), [Eid al-Adha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Eid_al-Adha \"Eid al-Adha\") and other occasions.\n\n[Bengali Muslims](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bengali_Muslim \"Bengali Muslim\") wear the teep as a cultural representation as it has been a long part of old Bengali culture, rooted deeply with old ethnic faiths, practices, religions, [Hinduism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hinduism_in_Bangladesh \"Hinduism in Bangladesh\") & [Buddhism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Buddhism \"Buddhism\"). Wearing teep or Bindi has also become a practice to express the stance against [terrorism](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Terrorism \"Terrorism\"), [gender violence](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gender-related_violence \"Gender-related violence\"), inequality, and support toward the [Bengali culture](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Culture_of_Bengal \"Culture of Bengal\"). During [1971 liberation war](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bangladesh_Liberation_War \"Bangladesh Liberation War\"), female freedom fighters reportedly wore Teep or Bindis.\n\nDepending on the occasion the colours of teep change, such as red and white for Pohela Boishakh, green, orange and yellow for [Pohela Falgun](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pohela_Falgun \"Pohela Falgun\"), blue and white for [Barsha Mangal](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Barsha_Utsab \"Barsha Utsab\"), brown and mustard colour for [Nabanna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nabanna \"Nabanna\"), purple and pink for Eid Al Fitr and black for [International mother Language Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/International_Mother_Language_Day \"International Mother Language Day\"), [Eid Al Adha](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Eid_Al_Adha \"Eid Al Adha\"), red and green for [Independence Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Independence_Day_\$Bangladesh\$ \"Independence Day (Bangladesh)\") and [Victory Day](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Victory_Day_\$Bangladesh\$ \"Victory Day (Bangladesh)\"). [Bengali Muslim brides](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bengali_Muslim_wedding \"Bengali Muslim wedding\") wearing \"kalka tip\" on their forehead is an old tradition of Bangladesh.[\\[28\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-28)\n\nIn [Sindh](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sindh \"Sindh\"), some Muslim Sindhi women apply a black dot or line by \"Kajjal or Surmo ([kohl](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kohl_\$cosmetics\$ \"Kohl (cosmetics)\"))\" on the forehead and chin, and sometimes three dots or lines around eyes as part of historic Indian traditions that have sustained post-Partition. As an [amulet](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Amulet \"Amulet\") believed to protect against the evil-eye, these dots are called Tikro or the Hindi '[Tilak](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tilaka \"Tilaka\")' (singular), or Tikra (plural).[\\[29\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-29)\n\nLike in India, in Sindh, when a child is born, black dots\/marks and lines are drawn on their faces. In modern times, stick-on bindiyas of different shapes and designs have become very common in rural Sindh, and are applied by both Muslims and Hindus. However, this is in decline as it is considered to be appropriately used by Sindhi Hindus only.\n\nBack in time in Sindh the brides were applied many dots of \"Tira\" (moles) drawn upon their face and lips with needles dipped in [antimony](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Antimony \"Antimony\") and other colouring matters.[\\[30\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-30)\n\nThe type of forehead tattoo called Khaal or Sheen Khal was also common among Afghan and [Pashtun](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Pashtuns \"Pashtuns\") women,[\\[31\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-31)[\\[32\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-32) although it is no longer done for religious reasons. As in Sindh, dots are made using kohl or other material. Bindis are also used by [Saraiki](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Saraiki_people \"Saraiki people\") and some [Baloch](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Baloch_people \"Baloch people\") tribal women of Pakistan. However, many [Muhajir](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Muhajir_\$Pakistan\$ \"Muhajir (Pakistan)\") and [Punjabi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Punjabis \"Punjabis\") consider the use of bindis to be un-Islamic. Due to this, the use of bindis has declined in many urban areas of Pakistan.\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/8\/8c\/2012-08_Woodstock_12.jpg\/250px-2012-08_Woodstock_12.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:2012-08_Woodstock_12.jpg)\n\nBindis and other religious affiliated markings are worn by recent Hindu converts like [Hare Krishnas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/International_Society_for_Krishna_Consciousness \"International Society for Krishna Consciousness\").[\\[33\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-33)\n\nBindis are sometimes worn purely for decorative purpose or style statement without any religious or cultural affiliation.[\\[34\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-34) Decorative and ornamental bindis were introduced to other parts of the world by immigrants from the Indian subcontinent.[\\[35\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-35) International celebrities such as [Gwen Stefani](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gwen_Stefani \"Gwen Stefani\"), [Julia Roberts](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Julia_Roberts \"Julia Roberts\"),[\\[36\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-36) [Madonna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Madonna_\$entertainer\$ \"Madonna (entertainer)\"),[\\[37\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-37) [Selena Gomez](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Selena_Gomez \"Selena Gomez\") and many others have been seen wearing bindis.[\\[38\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-38) The appropriateness of such uses has been disputed. Reacting to Gomez wearing a bindi while singing her song \"[Come and Get It](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Come_%26_Get_It_\$Selena_Gomez_song\$ \"Come & Get It (Selena Gomez song)\")\", Hindu leader [Rajan Zed](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Rajan_Zed \"Rajan Zed\") said that the bindi has religious significance and should not be used as a fashion accessory,[\\[39\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-39) but Indian actress [Priyanka Chopra](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Priyanka_Chopra \"Priyanka Chopra\") praised Gomez's choice as \"an embrace of Indian culture\".[\\[40\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-40) Additionally, several rappers have adopted jewelled bindis, most notably [Lil Uzi Vert](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lil_Uzi_Vert \"Lil Uzi Vert\"), who debuted a \\$24 million pink diamond bindi in February 2021. They were inspired by [Lil B](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Lil_B \"Lil B\") who wore a diamond bindi in 2012.[\\[41\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-41)\n\n[![](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/commons\/thumb\/7\/7a\/Bindi_Tamil_Lady.jpg\/250px-Bindi_Tamil_Lady.jpg)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Bindi_Tamil_Lady.jpg)\n\nTamil woman wearing bindi\n\nA bindi can also be called:[\\[42\\]](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_note-42)\n\n- *Phot* or *Phut* (literally meaning a small pressing mark) in [Assamese](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Assamese_language \"Assamese language\")\n- *Tip* (literally meaning \"a pressing\") in [Bengali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bengali_language \"Bengali language\")\n- *Tikuli* (literally meaning \"a small [tika](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tilaka \"Tilaka\")\") in [Madhyadeshi areas](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Madheshi_people \"Madheshi people\")\n- *Chandlo* (literally meaning moon shape) in [Gujarati](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Gujarati_language \"Gujarati language\")\n- *[Tilaka](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tilak \"Tilak\")* in [Hindi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Hindi_language \"Hindi language\")\n- *Tika* in [Nepali](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Nepali_language \"Nepali language\")\n- *Kunkuma* or *Bottu* or *Tilaka* in [Kannada](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kannada_language \"Kannada language\")\n- *Tilakaya* in [Sinhala](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sinhala_language \"Sinhala language\")\n- *Tikli* in [Konkani](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Konkani_language \"Konkani language\")\n- *Kunkoo* or *Tikali* in [Marathi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Marathi_language \"Marathi language\")\n- *Tikili* in [Odia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Odia_language \"Odia language\")\n- *Bindi* in [Punjabi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Punjabi_language \"Punjabi language\") meaning long red mark\n- *Pottu* in [Tamil](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tamil_language \"Tamil language\") and [Malayalam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Malayalam_language \"Malayalam language\")\n- *Bottu*, *Kunkuma, or* *Tilakam* in [Telugu](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Telugu_language \"Telugu language\")\n- *Tikli* in [Maithili](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Maithili_language \"Maithili language\")\n- *Tyok* in [Kashmiri](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Kashmiri_language \"Kashmiri language\")\n- *Tilkodi* in [Sindhi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Sindhi_Language \"Sindhi Language\")\n\n- [Huadian](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Huadian_\$make-up\$ \"Huadian (make-up)\"), a traditional Chinese forehead decoration\n- [Paklei Namsa](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Paklei_Namsa \"Paklei Namsa\")\n- [Thirunamam](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Thirunamam \"Thirunamam\")\n- [Tilaka](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Tilaka \"Tilaka\")\n- [Urna](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Urna \"Urna\")\n- [Vibhuti](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Vibhuti \"Vibhuti\"), sacred ash applied across the forehead\n\n1. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-1)**\n   [\"History and Etymology for bindi\"](https:\/\/www.merriam-webster.com\/dictionary\/bindi). [Merriam-Webster](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Merriam-Webster \"Merriam-Webster\"). [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20220116032943\/https:\/\/www.merriam-webster.com\/dictionary\/bindi) from the original on 16 January 2022. Retrieved 16 January 2022. \"borrowed from Hindi *bindī*, literally, \"dot, mark\" (or a cognate Indo-Aryan word), going back to the Middle Indo-Aryan and Sanskrit stem *bindu-* \"drop, spot,\" it's worn by Hindu, Buddhist, Jaina and some Sikhs\"\n2. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-2)**\n   [\"Bindi etymology\"](https:\/\/etymologeek.com\/eng\/bindi). Etymologeek. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20240914135842\/https:\/\/cooljugator.com\/etymology\/en\/bindi) from the original on 14 September 2024. Retrieved 16 January 2022. \"English word bindi comes from Hindi बिंदी\"\n3. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-Khanna_1979:_p.171_3-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-Khanna_1979:_p.171_3-1) Khanna 1979: p. 171\n4. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-4)**\n   Xiaoou, Yu (10 September 2014). [\"Guidelines for school entrance in ancient China\"](http:\/\/en.chinaculture.org\/chineseway\/2014-09\/10\/content_562942.htm). ChinaCulture.org. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20180930092952\/http:\/\/en.chinaculture.org\/chineseway\/2014-09\/10\/content_562942.htm) from the original on 30 September 2018. Retrieved 16 February 2018.\n5. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-Mercier_2007._p._267_5-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-Mercier_2007._p._267_5-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-Mercier_2007._p._267_5-2) [***d***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-Mercier_2007._p._267_5-3) Mercier (2007). p. 267.\n6. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-Swami_Ranganathananda_1991_21_6-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-Swami_Ranganathananda_1991_21_6-1)\n   [Swami Ranganathananda](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Ranganathananda \"Ranganathananda\") (1991). [*Human Being in Depth: A Scientific Approach to Religion*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=P0vfFZh9BIIC&q=Big+Bang+theory+and+Indian+philosophy&pg=PA21). SUNY Press. p. 21. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n   \n   [0791406792](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/0791406792 \"Special:BookSources\/0791406792\")\n   \n   .\n7. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-Shakya,_p._82-83_7-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-Shakya,_p._82-83_7-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-Shakya,_p._82-83_7-2) Shakya, pp. 82–83\n8. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-8)** *Southeast Asia: A Historical Encyclopedia, from Angkor Wat to East Timor*, by [Keat Gin Ooi](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Keat_Gin_Ooi \"Keat Gin Ooi\") p. 642\n9. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-9)** *Hindu-Buddhist Architecture in Southeast Asia* by Daigorō Chihara p. 226\n10. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-10)**\n    [\"Couples Fuel India's Vibrant Art Scene\"](https:\/\/www.nytimes.com\/2011\/10\/14\/arts\/14iht-rartcouples14.html?pagewanted=2&_r=1&sq=bindi&st=cse&scp=1). *[The New York Times](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/The_New_York_Times \"The New York Times\")*. 13 October 2011. Retrieved 20 October 2011.\n11. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-nasadiya-suktha-and-purusha-suktha_11-0)**\n    [\"nasadiya-suktha-and-purusha-suktha\"](http:\/\/loudthinkingkeyargomes.blogspot.ca\/2012\/09\/nasadiya-suktha-and-purusha-suktha.html). 21 September 2012.\n12. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-12)**\n    M. Kenoyer, Jonathan (1998). *Ancient Cities of the Indus Valley Civilization* (1st ed.). Oxford University Press. p. 186. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [0195779401](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/0195779401 \"Special:BookSources\/0195779401\")\n    \n    .\n13. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-13)**\n    Pintchman, Tracy (2007). [*Women's Lives, Women's Rituals in the Hindu Tradition*](https:\/\/archive.org\/details\/womensliveswomen00pint). Oxford. pp. [90](https:\/\/archive.org\/details\/womensliveswomen00pint\/page\/n106)–97. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [978-0195177060](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/978-0195177060 \"Special:BookSources\/978-0195177060\")\n    \n    .\n14. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-14)** *From Finite to Infinite*, by Swami Muktananda, SYDA Foundation, S. Fallsburg, New York, 1989, pp. 88–89\n15. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-15)** *Encyclopedic Dictionary of Yoga*, by Georg Fuerstein, Paragon House Publishers, New York, 1990, p. 15\n16. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-16)**\n    Bahadur, Om Lata (1996). [*The book of Hindu festivals and ceremonies*](https:\/\/archive.org\/details\/bookofhindufesti0000baha\/page\/168) (3rd ed.). New Delhi: UBS Publishers Distributors ltd. p. [168](https:\/\/archive.org\/details\/bookofhindufesti0000baha\/page\/168). [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [81-86112-23-5](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/81-86112-23-5 \"Special:BookSources\/81-86112-23-5\")\n    \n    .\n17. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-17)** Khadi and Village Industries Commission, Government of India\n18. ^ [***a***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-hbc1_18-0) [***b***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-hbc1_18-1) [***c***](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-hbc1_18-2)\n    Parvesh Handa, \"Home Beauty Clinic\", Pustak Mahal, [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [81-223-0099-5](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/81-223-0099-5 \"Special:BookSources\/81-223-0099-5\")\n19. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-19)**\n    [\"The Tribes and Castes of the Central Provinces of India—Volume IV\"](https:\/\/www.gutenberg.org\/files\/20668\/20668-h\/20668-h.htm).\n20. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-20)** Priyabala Shah (April 1986) \"Tilaka: Hindu marks on the forehead\", p.88\n21. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-gwynne_21-0)**\n    Gwynne, Paul (2009). [*World Religions in Practice: A Comparative Introduction*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=tdsRKc_knZoC&q=Sindoor+wedding+groom&pg=RA5-PT91). Maiden, MA: Blackwell Publishing. [ISBN](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/ISBN_\$identifier\$ \"ISBN (identifier)\")\n    \n    [9781444360059](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Special:BookSources\/9781444360059 \"Special:BookSources\/9781444360059\")\n    \n    .\n22. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-22)**\n    Dhar, Shobha (11 April 2015). [\"Iodine bindis for tribal women to fight deficiency\"](https:\/\/timesofindia.indiatimes.com\/india\/Iodine-bindis-for-tribal-women-to-fight-deficiency\/articleshow\/46884611.cms). TNN. The Times of India. Retrieved 25 July 2015.\n23. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-23)**\n    চৌধুরী, মধুমন্তী (22 September 2015). [\"পুজোর বাজারে সাবেকি টিপ\"](https:\/\/www.anandabazar.com\/entertainment\/puja-fashion-on-teep-and-bindia-1.211756). *Anandabazar Online*. Retrieved 25 December 2023.\n24. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-24)**\n    [\"Teep\"](https:\/\/www.thedailystar.net\/tags\/teep).\n25. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-25)**\n    P.K.BALACHANDRAN (17 April 2019). [\"Bangladesh Asserts its Bengali Identity in Mass Celebration of Pohela Boishak\"](https:\/\/www.thecitizen.in\/index.php\/en\/NewsDetail\/index\/5\/16732\/Bangladesh-Asserts-its-Bengali-Identity-in-Mass-Celebration-of-Pohela-Boishak--). *www.thecitizen.in*. Retrieved 11 June 2023.\n26. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-26)**\n    [\"টিপটপ টিপ\"](https:\/\/www.kalerkantho.com\/feature\/a2z\/2020\/03\/22\/889166). *www.kalerkantho.com*. March 2020. Retrieved 11 June 2023.\n27. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-27)**\n    ইসলাম, সায়েদুল (2 April 2022). [\"বাঙালি নারীদের মধ্যে টিপ পরার প্রচলন শুরু হলো যেভাবে\"](https:\/\/www.bbc.com\/bengali\/news-60988562.amp). *BBC*. Retrieved 25 December 2023.\n28. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-28)** [Kalka](https:\/\/en.banglapedia.org\/index.php\/Kalka). *[Banglapedia](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Banglapedia \"Banglapedia\")*.\n29. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-29)**\n    [\"ٽڪو2 : (Sindhianaسنڌيانا)\"](http:\/\/www.encyclopediasindhiana.org\/article.php?Dflt=%D9%BD%DA%AA%D9%882). *www.encyclopediasindhiana.org* (in Sindhi). Retrieved 25 January 2024.\n30. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-30)**\n    Burton, Sir Richard Francis (1851). [*Sindh, and the Races that Inhabit the Valley of the Indus*](https:\/\/books.google.com\/books?id=RZQMzQLsyk0C). W. H. Allen.\n31. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-31)**\n    [\"Khaal, The Tattoo of Afghan Womxn\"](https:\/\/www.herculture.org\/blog\/2021\/3\/31\/khaal-the-tattoo-of-afghan-womxn). *Her Culture*. 24 May 2021. Retrieved 11 June 2023.\n32. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-32)**\n    Khan, Moxet (25 November 2020). [\"Sheen Khal \/ blue tattoo are the Beauty Marks for Pakhtun females\"](https:\/\/pukhtoogle.com\/sheen-khal-blue-tattoo-are-the-beauty-marks-for-pakhtun-females\/). *Pukhtoogle*. Retrieved 11 June 2023.\n33. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-33)**\n    [\"Svami Sadananda Dasa: Disciple of Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati and Guru of Vamandas (Walther Eidlitz)\"](http:\/\/www.sadananda.com\/). *sadananda.com*. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20170926042014\/http:\/\/www.sadananda.com\/) from the original on 26 September 2017. Retrieved 1 October 2015.\n34. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-34)** [Khu phố Little India ở Artesia](http:\/\/arquivo.pt\/wayback\/20160522184733\/http:\/\/www.nguoi-viet.com\/absolutenm2\/templates\/?a=139901&z=268), *Nguoi Viet Online*, 11 November 2011, Retrieved 22 November 2011\n35. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-35)** [Juventud organiza un mercadillo solidario a beneficio de la Fundación Vicente Ferrer](http:\/\/www.elperiodic.com\/denia\/noticias\/146263_juventud-organiza-mercadillo-solidario-beneficio-fundacion-vicente-ferrer.html) [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20120407012251\/http:\/\/www.elperiodic.com\/denia\/noticias\/146263_juventud-organiza-mercadillo-solidario-beneficio-fundacion-vicente-ferrer.html) 7 April 2012 at the [Wayback Machine](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Wayback_Machine \"Wayback Machine\"), *elperiodic.com*, 17 November 2011. Retrieved 22 November 2011\n36. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-36)**\n    [\"'Pretty Woman' in temple upset\"](https:\/\/news.bbc.co.uk\/2\/hi\/south_asia\/8270556.stm). *BBC News*. 23 September 2009. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20090929194226\/http:\/\/news.bbc.co.uk\/2\/hi\/south_asia\/8270556.stm) from the original on 29 September 2009. Retrieved 26 April 2010.\n37. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-37)**\n    [\"Try a bindi now with Western wear\"](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20120330081155\/http:\/\/punjabnewsline.com\/content\/try-bindi-now-western-wear\/29719). *Punjab Newsline*. 6 October 2011. Archived from [the original](http:\/\/punjabnewsline.com\/content\/try-bindi-now-western-wear\/29719) on 30 March 2012. Retrieved 20 October 2011.\n38. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-38)**\n    [\"Should Selena Gomez apologize for wearing a bindi at the MTV Movie\"](https:\/\/www.today.com\/popculture\/selena-gomez-causes-controversy-wearing-bindi-mtv-movie-awards-I533548). 17 April 2013.\n39. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-39)**\n    Sieczkowski, Cavan (16 April 2013). [\"Selena Gomez Bindi: Hindu Leaders Demand Apology For MTV Movie Awards Costume\"](https:\/\/www.huffingtonpost.com\/2013\/04\/16\/selena-gomez-bindi-mtv-movie-awards_n_3092129.html). *[Huffington Post](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Huffington_Post \"Huffington Post\")*. Retrieved 25 September 2015.\n40. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-40)**\n    DelliCarpini, Gregory Jr. (22 May 2013). [\"Selena Gomez's Bindi Styling: Offensive? Bollywood Star Priyanka Chopra Talks About the Star's Usage\"](https:\/\/www.billboard.com\/music\/music-news\/selena-gomezs-bindi-styling-offensive-bollywood-star-priyanka-1563147\/). *[Billboard](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Billboard_\$magazine\$ \"Billboard (magazine)\")*. [Archived](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20150924215913\/http:\/\/www.billboard.com\/articles\/columns\/the-hook\/1563147\/selena-gomezs-bindi-styling-offensive-bollywood-star-priyanka) from the original on 24 September 2015. Retrieved 25 September 2015.\n41. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-41)**\n    [\"Lil Uzi Vert's \\$24 Million Forehead Diamond Was Inspired by Lil B\"](https:\/\/exclaim.ca\/music\/article\/lil_uzi_verts_24_million_forehead_diamond_was_inspired_by_lil_b). *exclaim.ca*. Retrieved 17 February 2021.\n42. **[^](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/Bindi#cite_ref-42)**\n    [\"Dazzling bindis\"](https:\/\/web.archive.org\/web\/20111012051854\/http:\/\/lifestyle.in.msn.com\/gallery\/Photoviewer.aspx?cp-documentid=4248259). *MSN India*. 10 October 2011. Archived from [the original](https:\/\/lifestyle.in.msn.com\/gallery\/photoviewer.aspx?cp-documentid=4248259) on 12 October 2011. Retrieved 20 October 2011.\n\n[![logo](https:\/\/upload.wikimedia.org\/wikipedia\/en\/thumb\/4\/4a\/Commons-logo.svg\/40px-Commons-logo.svg.png)](https:\/\/en.wikipedia.org\/wiki\/File:Commons-logo.svg)\n\nWikimedia Commons has media related to [Bindi](https:\/\/commons.wikimedia.org\/wiki\/Category:Bindi \"commons:Category:Bindi\").","meta_canonical":null}

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Boilerpipe Text	From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Hindu woman in Kullu , Himachal Pradesh wearing a stick-on bindi A bindi (from Sanskrit bindú meaning "point, drop, dot or small particle") [ 1 ] [ 2 ] is a coloured dot or, in modern times, a sticker worn on the centre of the forehead, by Hindus, Jains and Buddhists from the Indian subcontinent in place of the tilak . While modern stick-on bindis are worn by many women following Indian religions, they may also use sandalwood paste or create a tilak using kajal as is the original practice followed by both men and women. A bindi is a bright dot of some colour applied in the centre of the forehead close to the eyebrows or in the middle of the forehead that is worn in the Indian subcontinent (particularly amongst female Hindus in India , Nepal , Bhutan , Bangladesh and Sri Lanka ) [ 3 ] and Southeast Asia among Balinese , Javanese , Sundanese , Malaysian , Singaporean , Vietnamese , and Myanmar Hindus. A similar marking is also worn by babies and children in China and, as in the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, represents the opening of the third eye . [ 4 ] In Hinduism , Buddhism , and Jainism the bindi is associated with the ajna chakra , and Bindu [ 5 ] is known as the third eye chakra. Bindu is the point or dot around which the mandala is created, representing the universe. [ 6 ] [ 7 ] The bindi has a religious, historical and cultural presence in the region of India and with the Hindu, Indian diaspora around the world. [ 8 ] [ 9 ] However, non-Hindu women in South Asian region may also wear bindi for fashion, good luck & beauty. Religious significance [ edit ] Ajna chakra has two lotus petals dedicated to the sun, the other to the moon (e.g. light and dark, or male and female) merged at the centre. Traditionally, the area between the eyebrows (where the bindi is placed) is said to be the sixth chakra , ajna , the seat of "concealed wisdom." The bindi is said to retain energy and strengthen concentration. The bindi also represents the third eye . [ 10 ] The Nasadiya Sukta of the Rig Veda, the earliest known Sanskrit text, mentions the word Bindu . [ 11 ] Female figure with bindi ornament, terracotta, 200–250 BCE The Ajna is symbolised by a sacred lotus with two petals, and corresponds to the colours violet, indigo or deep blue, though it is traditionally described as white. It is at this point that the two sides Nadi Ida (yoga) and Pingala are said to terminate and merge with the central channel Sushumna, signifying the end of duality, the characteristic of being dual (e.g. light and dark , or male and female ). The seed syllable for this chakra is the syllable OM, and the presiding deity is Ardhanarishvara , who is a half male, half female Shiva/Shakti. The Shakti goddess of Ajna is called Hakini. In metaphysics, Bindu is considered the dot or point at which creation begins and may become unity. It is also described as "the sacred symbol of the cosmos in its unmanifested state". [ 3 ] [ 6 ] Bindu is the point around which the mandala is created, representing the universe. [ 7 ] Ajna 's key issues involve balancing the higher and lower selves and trusting inner guidance. Ajna's inner aspect relates to the access of intuition. Mentally, Ajna deals with visual consciousness. Emotionally, Ajna deals with clarity on an intuitive level. [ 5 ] Goddess Tara depicted with Ajna Bhrumadhya Bindu known as inner gaze . Bhrumadhya is the point in the centre of the forehead commonly referred to as the third eye, or centre of consciousness. [ 5 ] In Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, bindi is associated with Ajna Chakra and Bindu . [ 5 ] Divinities in these religions are typically depicted with Bhrumadhya Bindu , in meditative pose with their eyes nearly closed show the gaze focused between eyebrows, other spot being the tip of the nose—Naasikagra. The very spot between the eyebrows known as Bhrumadhya is where one focuses one's sight, so that it helps concentration. [ 7 ] Relief from stupa, 2nd century B.C. Only female figures were marked with the sacred lotus during this period The bindi has multiple meanings: Archaeology has yielded clay female figurines from the Indus Valley with red pigment on the forehead and hair parting. It is unclear whether this held any religious or cultural significance. [ 12 ] In Hinduism, the colour red represents honour, love, and prosperity, hence bindis are worn to symbolise these qualities after marriage in particular. [ 13 ] In meditation, the point between the eyebrows (Bhrumadhya) is where one focuses one's sight, to help concentration. Most images of Hindu, Jain or Buddhist divinities in meditative poses with their eyes nearly closed show the gaze focused between the eyebrows (another spot being the tip of the nose—naasikagra) Swami Muktananda writes that "auspicious Kumkuma or sandalwood paste is applied (between the eyebrows) out of respect for the inner Guru. It is the Guru's seat. There is a chakra (centre of spiritual energy within the human body) here called Ajna chakra, meaning 'Command centre'. Here is received the Guru's command to go higher in Sadhana (spiritual practice) to the 'Sahasraar' (seventh and final chakra) which leads to Self-realisation. The flame seen at the eyebrow is called 'Guru Jyoti'." [ 14 ] The encyclopaedic Dictionary of Yoga reports that this 'Ajna Chakra' is also called the 'Third eye'. This centre is connected with the sacred syllable ' Om ' and presiding, is ' Parashiva '. On activating this centre, the aspirant overcomes ' Ahankāra ' (the ego or sense of individuality), the last stop on the path of spirituality. [ 15 ] The bindi continues to hold symbolic significance rooted in Indian mythology and is traditionally associated with Hindu culture. "wearing a bindi or mangalsutra is a sign of Hindu women. The traditional bindi still represents and preserves the symbolic significance that is integrated into Indian mythology in many parts of India." Traditional application method [ edit ] Bride with decorative bindis and maang tika between hair parting where married women apply sindoor A traditional bindi is red or maroon in colour as it mimics sindoor or kumkum which is used as part Hindu religious ceremonies and rituals along with sandalwood , turmeric and ash. A pinch of vermilion powder is applied with a ring-finger to make a dot. A small annular disc aids application for beginners. First, a sticky wax paste is applied through the empty centre of the disc. This is then covered with kumkum or vermilion and then the disc is removed to get a round bindi. Various materials such as lac , sandal, "aguru", mica , "kasturi", kumkum (made of red turmeric) and sindoor colour the dot. Saffron ground together with "kusumba" flower can also work. Traditionally they are green in colour with a red dot in the middle. [ 16 ] The bindi is no longer restricted in colour or shape. [ 17 ] [ 18 ] Ornamental bindis were made and sold by lac workers known as Lakhera . Historically, the ornamental bindi spangle consists of a small piece of lac over which is smeared vermilion, while above it a piece of mica or thin glass is fixed for ornament. Women wore large spangles set in gold with a border of jewels if they could afford it. The bindi was made and sold by lac workers known as Lakhera . [ 19 ] In Hinduism, it's part of the Suhāg or lucky trousseau at marriages and is affixed to the girl's forehead on her wedding and thereafter always worn. [ 18 ] Unmarried girls optionally wore small ornamental spangles on their foreheads. A widow was not allowed to wear bindi or any ornamentation associated with married women. [ 18 ] In modern times, self-adhesive bindis are available in various materials, usually made of felt or thin metal and adhesive on the other side. These are simple to apply, disposable substitutes for older lac tikli bindis. Sticker bindis come in many colours, designs, materials, and sizes. Courtesan Bani Thani as Radha with ornamental bindi spangle, c. 1750 There are different regional variations of the bindi. In Maharashtra a large crescent moon shaped bindi is worn with a smaller black dot underneath or above, associated with Chandrabindu and Bindu chakra represented by crescent moon, they are commonly known as Chandrakor in this region, outside Maharashtra they are popularly known as Marathi bindi . In Bengal region a large round red bindi is worn, brides in this region are often decorated with Alpana design on forehead and cheeks, along with bindi. In southern India a smaller red bindi is worn with a white tilak at the bottom, another common type is a red tilak shaped bindi. In Rajasthan the bindi is often worn round. Long tilak shaped bindi are also common, as well as the crescent moon on some occasions. Decorative bindis have become popular among women in South Asia, regardless of religious background. Bindis are a staple and symbolic for women in the Indian subcontinent. [ 20 ] In addition to the bindi, in India, a vermilion mark in the parting of the hair just above the forehead is worn by married women as a symbol of life-long commitment to their husbands. During all Hindu marriage ceremonies, the groom applies sindoor in the part in the bride's hair. [ 21 ] Apart from their cosmetic use, bindis have found a modern medical application in India. Iodine patch bindis have often been used among women in north-west Maharashtra to battle iodine deficiency. [ 22 ] A Balinese dancer with a white bindi In Southeast Asia , bindis are worn by the Balinese , Javanese , and Sundanese people of Indonesia . For example, bindis are often worn by brides and grooms in Java and other parts of Indonesia , regardless of their religious beliefs. The Indonesian practice of wearing a bindi originated from the cultural influence brought about by the Indianized Hindu kingdoms that once ruled Indonesia. Historically, other Indianized kingdoms in Southeast Asia also took part in this practice. Bengali girl from Bangladesh wearing Teep on the occasion of Pohela Boishakh Teep or tip , similar to bindis, are part of Bengali culture and women in West Bengal, India and Bangladesh , irrespective of their religion, adorn themselves with teeps as an ethnic practice. [ 23 ] [ 24 ] [ 25 ] [ 26 ] By the 18th century the use of teeps had become very common. [ 27 ] It's popular in celebrations like Durga Puja , Pohela Boishakh , Pohela Falgun , Eid al-Fitr , Eid al-Adha and other occasions. Bengali Muslims wear the teep as a cultural representation as it has been a long part of old Bengali culture, rooted deeply with old ethnic faiths, practices, religions, Hinduism & Buddhism . Wearing teep or Bindi has also become a practice to express the stance against terrorism , gender violence , inequality, and support toward the Bengali culture . During 1971 liberation war , female freedom fighters reportedly wore Teep or Bindis. Depending on the occasion the colours of teep change, such as red and white for Pohela Boishakh, green, orange and yellow for Pohela Falgun , blue and white for Barsha Mangal , brown and mustard colour for Nabanna , purple and pink for Eid Al Fitr and black for International mother Language Day , Eid Al Adha , red and green for Independence Day and Victory Day . Bengali Muslim brides wearing "kalka tip" on their forehead is an old tradition of Bangladesh. [ 28 ] In Sindh , some Muslim Sindhi women apply a black dot or line by "Kajjal or Surmo ( kohl )" on the forehead and chin, and sometimes three dots or lines around eyes as part of historic Indian traditions that have sustained post-Partition. As an amulet believed to protect against the evil-eye, these dots are called Tikro or the Hindi ' Tilak ' (singular), or Tikra (plural). [ 29 ] Like in India, in Sindh, when a child is born, black dots/marks and lines are drawn on their faces. In modern times, stick-on bindiyas of different shapes and designs have become very common in rural Sindh, and are applied by both Muslims and Hindus. However, this is in decline as it is considered to be appropriately used by Sindhi Hindus only. Back in time in Sindh the brides were applied many dots of "Tira" (moles) drawn upon their face and lips with needles dipped in antimony and other colouring matters. [ 30 ] The type of forehead tattoo called Khaal or Sheen Khal was also common among Afghan and Pashtun women, [ 31 ] [ 32 ] although it is no longer done for religious reasons. As in Sindh, dots are made using kohl or other material. Bindis are also used by Saraiki and some Baloch tribal women of Pakistan. However, many Muhajir and Punjabi consider the use of bindis to be un-Islamic. Due to this, the use of bindis has declined in many urban areas of Pakistan. Bindis and other religious affiliated markings are worn by recent Hindu converts like Hare Krishnas . [ 33 ] Bindis are sometimes worn purely for decorative purpose or style statement without any religious or cultural affiliation. [ 34 ] Decorative and ornamental bindis were introduced to other parts of the world by immigrants from the Indian subcontinent. [ 35 ] International celebrities such as Gwen Stefani , Julia Roberts , [ 36 ] Madonna , [ 37 ] Selena Gomez and many others have been seen wearing bindis. [ 38 ] The appropriateness of such uses has been disputed. Reacting to Gomez wearing a bindi while singing her song " Come and Get It ", Hindu leader Rajan Zed said that the bindi has religious significance and should not be used as a fashion accessory, [ 39 ] but Indian actress Priyanka Chopra praised Gomez's choice as "an embrace of Indian culture". [ 40 ] Additionally, several rappers have adopted jewelled bindis, most notably Lil Uzi Vert , who debuted a $24 million pink diamond bindi in February 2021. They were inspired by Lil B who wore a diamond bindi in 2012. [ 41 ] Tamil woman wearing bindi A bindi can also be called: [ 42 ] Phot or Phut (literally meaning a small pressing mark) in Assamese Tip (literally meaning "a pressing") in Bengali Tikuli (literally meaning "a small tika ") in Madhyadeshi areas Chandlo (literally meaning moon shape) in Gujarati Tilaka in Hindi Tika in Nepali Kunkuma or Bottu or Tilaka in Kannada Tilakaya in Sinhala Tikli in Konkani Kunkoo or Tikali in Marathi Tikili in Odia Bindi in Punjabi meaning long red mark Pottu in Tamil and Malayalam Bottu , Kunkuma, or Tilakam in Telugu Tikli in Maithili Tyok in Kashmiri Tilkodi in Sindhi Huadian , a traditional Chinese forehead decoration Paklei Namsa Thirunamam Tilaka Urna Vibhuti , sacred ash applied across the forehead ^ "History and Etymology for bindi" . Merriam-Webster . Archived from the original on 16 January 2022 . Retrieved 16 January 2022 . borrowed from Hindi bindī , literally, "dot, mark" (or a cognate Indo-Aryan word), going back to the Middle Indo-Aryan and Sanskrit stem bindu- "drop, spot," it's worn by Hindu, Buddhist, Jaina and some Sikhs ^ "Bindi etymology" . Etymologeek. Archived from the original on 14 September 2024 . Retrieved 16 January 2022 . English word bindi comes from Hindi बिंदी ^ a b Khanna 1979: p. 171 ^ Xiaoou, Yu (10 September 2014). "Guidelines for school entrance in ancient China" . ChinaCulture.org. Archived from the original on 30 September 2018 . Retrieved 16 February 2018 . ^ a b c d Mercier (2007). p. 267. ^ a b Swami Ranganathananda (1991). Human Being in Depth: A Scientific Approach to Religion . SUNY Press. p. 21. ISBN 0791406792 . ^ a b c Shakya, pp. 82–83 ^ Southeast Asia: A Historical Encyclopedia, from Angkor Wat to East Timor , by Keat Gin Ooi p. 642 ^ Hindu-Buddhist Architecture in Southeast Asia by Daigorō Chihara p. 226 ^ "Couples Fuel India's Vibrant Art Scene" . The New York Times . 13 October 2011 . Retrieved 20 October 2011 . ^ "nasadiya-suktha-and-purusha-suktha" . 21 September 2012. ^ M. Kenoyer, Jonathan (1998). Ancient Cities of the Indus Valley Civilization (1st ed.). Oxford University Press. p. 186. ISBN 0195779401 . ^ Pintchman, Tracy (2007). Women's Lives, Women's Rituals in the Hindu Tradition . Oxford. pp. 90 –97. ISBN 978-0195177060 . ^ From Finite to Infinite , by Swami Muktananda, SYDA Foundation, S. Fallsburg, New York, 1989, pp. 88–89 ^ Encyclopedic Dictionary of Yoga , by Georg Fuerstein, Paragon House Publishers, New York, 1990, p. 15 ^ Bahadur, Om Lata (1996). The book of Hindu festivals and ceremonies (3rd ed.). New Delhi: UBS Publishers Distributors ltd. p. 168 . ISBN 81-86112-23-5 . ^ Khadi and Village Industries Commission, Government of India ^ a b c Parvesh Handa, "Home Beauty Clinic", Pustak Mahal, ISBN 81-223-0099-5 ^ "The Tribes and Castes of the Central Provinces of India—Volume IV" . ^ Priyabala Shah (April 1986) "Tilaka: Hindu marks on the forehead", p.88 ^ Gwynne, Paul (2009). World Religions in Practice: A Comparative Introduction . Maiden, MA: Blackwell Publishing. ISBN 9781444360059 . ^ Dhar, Shobha (11 April 2015). "Iodine bindis for tribal women to fight deficiency" . TNN. The Times of India . Retrieved 25 July 2015 . ^ চৌধুরী, মধুমন্তী (22 September 2015). "পুজোর বাজারে সাবেকি টিপ" . Anandabazar Online . Retrieved 25 December 2023 . ^ "Teep" . ^ P.K.BALACHANDRAN (17 April 2019). "Bangladesh Asserts its Bengali Identity in Mass Celebration of Pohela Boishak" . www.thecitizen.in . Retrieved 11 June 2023 . ^ "টিপটপ টিপ" . www.kalerkantho.com . March 2020 . Retrieved 11 June 2023 . ^ ইসলাম, সায়েদুল (2 April 2022). "বাঙালি নারীদের মধ্যে টিপ পরার প্রচলন শুরু হলো যেভাবে" . BBC . Retrieved 25 December 2023 . ^ Kalka . Banglapedia . ^ "ٽڪو2 : (Sindhianaسنڌيانا)" . www.encyclopediasindhiana.org (in Sindhi) . Retrieved 25 January 2024 . ^ Burton, Sir Richard Francis (1851). Sindh, and the Races that Inhabit the Valley of the Indus . W. H. Allen. ^ "Khaal, The Tattoo of Afghan Womxn" . Her Culture . 24 May 2021 . Retrieved 11 June 2023 . ^ Khan, Moxet (25 November 2020). "Sheen Khal / blue tattoo are the Beauty Marks for Pakhtun females" . Pukhtoogle . Retrieved 11 June 2023 . ^ "Svami Sadananda Dasa: Disciple of Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati and Guru of Vamandas (Walther Eidlitz)" . sadananda.com . Archived from the original on 26 September 2017 . Retrieved 1 October 2015 . ^ Khu phố Little India ở Artesia , Nguoi Viet Online , 11 November 2011, Retrieved 22 November 2011 ^ Juventud organiza un mercadillo solidario a beneficio de la Fundación Vicente Ferrer Archived 7 April 2012 at the Wayback Machine , elperiodic.com , 17 November 2011. Retrieved 22 November 2011 ^ " 'Pretty Woman' in temple upset" . BBC News . 23 September 2009. Archived from the original on 29 September 2009 . Retrieved 26 April 2010 . ^ "Try a bindi now with Western wear" . Punjab Newsline . 6 October 2011. Archived from the original on 30 March 2012 . Retrieved 20 October 2011 . ^ "Should Selena Gomez apologize for wearing a bindi at the MTV Movie" . 17 April 2013. ^ Sieczkowski, Cavan (16 April 2013). "Selena Gomez Bindi: Hindu Leaders Demand Apology For MTV Movie Awards Costume" . Huffington Post . Retrieved 25 September 2015 . ^ DelliCarpini, Gregory Jr. (22 May 2013). "Selena Gomez's Bindi Styling: Offensive? Bollywood Star Priyanka Chopra Talks About the Star's Usage" . Billboard . Archived from the original on 24 September 2015 . Retrieved 25 September 2015 . ^ "Lil Uzi Vert's $24 Million Forehead Diamond Was Inspired by Lil B" . exclaim.ca . Retrieved 17 February 2021 . ^ "Dazzling bindis" . MSN India . 10 October 2011. Archived from the original on 12 October 2011 . Retrieved 20 October 2011 . Wikimedia Commons has media related to Bindi .
Markdown	[Jump to content](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#bodyContent) Main menu Main menu move to sidebar hide Navigation - [Main page](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page "Visit the main page [z]") - [Contents](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Contents "Guides to browsing Wikipedia") - [Current events](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Portal:Current_events "Articles related to current events") - [Random article](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:Random "Visit a randomly selected article [x]") - [About Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:About "Learn about Wikipedia and how it works") - [Contact us](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Contact_us "How to contact Wikipedia") Contribute - [Help](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Help:Contents "Guidance on how to use and edit Wikipedia") - [Learn to edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Help:Introduction "Learn how to edit Wikipedia") - [Community portal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:Community_portal "The hub for editors") - [Recent changes](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:RecentChanges "A list of recent changes to Wikipedia [r]") - [Upload file](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wikipedia:File_upload_wizard "Add images or other media for use on Wikipedia") - [Special pages](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:SpecialPages "A list of all special pages [q]") [![](https://en.wikipedia.org/static/images/icons/enwiki-25.svg) ![Wikipedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/static/images/mobile/copyright/wikipedia-wordmark-en-25.svg) ![The Free Encyclopedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/static/images/mobile/copyright/wikipedia-tagline-en-25.svg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Main_Page) [Search](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:Search "Search Wikipedia [f]") Appearance - [Donate](https://donate.wikimedia.org/?wmf_source=donate&wmf_medium=sidebar&wmf_campaign=en.wikipedia.org&uselang=en) - [Create account](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:CreateAccount&returnto=Bindi "You are encouraged to create an account and log in; however, it is not mandatory") - [Log in](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:UserLogin&returnto=Bindi "You're encouraged to log in; however, it's not mandatory. [o]") Personal tools - [Donate](https://donate.wikimedia.org/?wmf_source=donate&wmf_medium=sidebar&wmf_campaign=en.wikipedia.org&uselang=en) - [Create account](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:CreateAccount&returnto=Bindi "You are encouraged to create an account and log in; however, it is not mandatory") - [Log in](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:UserLogin&returnto=Bindi "You're encouraged to log in; however, it's not mandatory. [o]") ## Contents move to sidebar hide - [(Top)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi) - [1 Religious significance](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#Religious_significance) - [2 Traditional application method](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#Traditional_application_method) Toggle Traditional application method subsection - [2\.1 Related customs in other Asian regions](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#Related_customs_in_other_Asian_regions) - [3 Teep](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#Teep) - [4 Bindis in Pakistan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#Bindis_in_Pakistan) - [5 Modern use](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#Modern_use) - [6 Alternative terms](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#Alternative_terms) - [7 See also](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#See_also) - [8 References](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#References) - [9 External links](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#External_links) Toggle the table of contents # Bindi 38 languages - [العربية](https://ar.wikipedia.org/wiki/%D8%A8%D9%86%D8%AF%D9%8A "بندي – Arabic") - [অসমীয়া](https://as.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%A6%AB%E0%A7%8B%E0%A6%81%E0%A6%9F "ফোঁট – Assamese") - [Azərbaycanca](https://az.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi "Bindi – Azerbaijani") - [Български](https://bg.wikipedia.org/wiki/%D0%91%D0%B8%D0%BD%D0%B4%D0%B8 "Бинди – Bulgarian") - [বাংলা](https://bn.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%A6%9F%E0%A6%BF%E0%A6%AA "টিপ – Bangla") - [Català](https://ca.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi "Bindi – Catalan") - [Čeština](https://cs.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi "Bindi – Czech") - [Dansk](https://da.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi "Bindi – Danish") - [Deutsch](https://de.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi "Bindi – German") - [Español](https://es.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi "Bindi – Spanish") - [Eesti](https://et.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi "Bindi – Estonian") - [Euskara](https://eu.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi "Bindi – Basque") - [فارسی](https://fa.wikipedia.org/wiki/%D8%A8%DB%8C%D9%86%D8%AF%DB%8C "بیندی – Persian") - [Suomi](https://fi.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi "Bindi – Finnish") - [Français](https://fr.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi "Bindi – French") - [Galego](https://gl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi "Bindi – Galician") - [עברית](https://he.wikipedia.org/wiki/%D7%91%D7%99%D7%A0%D7%93%D7%99 "בינדי – Hebrew") - [Magyar](https://hu.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi "Bindi – Hungarian") - [Italiano](https://it.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi_$decorazione$ "Bindi (decorazione) – Italian") - [日本語](https://ja.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E3%83%93%E3%83%B3%E3%83%87%E3%82%A3%E3%83%BC "ビンディー – Japanese") - [한국어](https://ko.wikipedia.org/wiki/%EB%B9%88%EB%94%94_$%EC%9D%B8%EB%8F%84$ "빈디 (인도) – Korean") - [മലയാളം](https://ml.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%B4%AA%E0%B5%8A%E0%B4%9F%E0%B5%8D%E0%B4%9F%E0%B5%8D "പൊട്ട് – Malayalam") - [Bahasa Melayu](https://ms.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pottu "Pottu – Malay") - [Nederlands](https://nl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi_$decoratie$ "Bindi (decoratie) – Dutch") - [Norsk bokmål](https://no.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi "Bindi – Norwegian Bokmål") - [ଓଡ଼ିଆ](https://or.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%AC%9F%E0%AC%BF%E0%AC%95%E0%AC%BF%E0%AC%B2%E0%AC%BF "ଟିକିଲି – Odia") - [ਪੰਜਾਬੀ](https://pa.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%A8%AC%E0%A8%BF%E0%A9%B0%E0%A8%A6%E0%A9%80_$%E0%A8%B8%E0%A8%9C%E0%A8%BE%E0%A8%B5%E0%A8%9F$ "ਬਿੰਦੀ (ਸਜਾਵਟ) – Punjabi") - [Polski](https://pl.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi "Bindi – Polish") - [Português](https://pt.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi "Bindi – Portuguese") - [Română](https://ro.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi "Bindi – Romanian") - [Русский](https://ru.wikipedia.org/wiki/%D0%91%D0%B8%D0%BD%D0%B4%D0%B8 "Бинди – Russian") - [Simple English](https://simple.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi "Bindi – Simple English") - [Shqip](https://sq.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi_$zbukurim$ "Bindi (zbukurim) – Albanian") - [Svenska](https://sv.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi "Bindi – Swedish") - [தமிழ்](https://ta.wikipedia.org/wiki/%E0%AE%AA%E0%AF%8A%E0%AE%9F%E0%AF%8D%E0%AE%9F%E0%AF%81 "பொட்டு – Tamil") - [Українська](https://uk.wikipedia.org/wiki/%D0%91%D1%96%D0%BD%D0%B4%D1%96 "Бінді – Ukrainian") - [اردو](https://ur.wikipedia.org/wiki/%D8%A8%D9%86%D8%AF%DB%8C_$%D8%B3%D8%AC%D8%A7%D9%88%D9%B9$ "بندی (سجاوٹ) – Urdu") - [Tiếng Việt](https://vi.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi "Bindi – Vietnamese") [Edit links](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Special:EntityPage/Q747901#sitelinks-wikipedia "Edit interlanguage links") - 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[Permanent link](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Bindi&oldid=1343395290 "Permanent link to this revision of this page") - [Page information](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Bindi&action=info "More information about this page") - [Cite this page](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:CiteThisPage&page=Bindi&id=1343395290&wpFormIdentifier=titleform "Information on how to cite this page") - [Get shortened URL](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:UrlShortener&url=https%3A%2F%2Fen.wikipedia.org%2Fwiki%2FBindi) Print/export - [Download as PDF](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Special:DownloadAsPdf&page=Bindi&action=show-download-screen "Download this page as a PDF file") - [Printable version](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Bindi&printable=yes "Printable version of this page [p]") In other projects - [Wikimedia Commons](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Bindi) - [Wikidata item](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Special:EntityPage/Q747901 "Structured data on this page hosted by Wikidata [g]") Appearance move to sidebar hide From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia Dot worn on the centre of the forehead For other uses, see [Bindi (disambiguation)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi_$disambiguation$ "Bindi (disambiguation)"). [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/42/Kullu_Himachal_Pradesh_India_Woman.jpg/250px-Kullu_Himachal_Pradesh_India_Woman.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Kullu_Himachal_Pradesh_India_Woman.jpg) Hindu woman in [Kullu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kullu "Kullu"), Himachal Pradesh wearing a stick-on bindi A bindi (from [Sanskrit](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sanskrit "Sanskrit") [bindú](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindu_$symbol$ "Bindu (symbol)") meaning "point, drop, dot or small particle")[\[1\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-1)[\[2\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-2) is a coloured dot or, in modern times, a [sticker](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sticker "Sticker") worn on the centre of the forehead, by Hindus, Jains and Buddhists from the [Indian subcontinent](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_subcontinent "Indian subcontinent") in place of the [tilak](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tilaka "Tilaka"). While modern stick-on bindis are worn by many women following Indian religions, they may also use [sandalwood](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sandalwood "Sandalwood") paste or create a tilak using [kajal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kohl_$cosmetics$ "Kohl (cosmetics)") as is the original practice followed by both men and women. A bindi is a bright dot of some colour applied in the centre of the forehead close to the [eyebrows](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eyebrow "Eyebrow") or in the middle of the forehead that is worn in the Indian subcontinent (particularly amongst female Hindus in [India](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India "India"), [Nepal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nepal "Nepal"), [Bhutan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhutan "Bhutan"), [Bangladesh](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bangladesh "Bangladesh") and [Sri Lanka](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sri_Lanka "Sri Lanka"))[\[3\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-Khanna_1979:_p.171-3) and Southeast Asia among [Balinese](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balinese_people "Balinese people"), [Javanese](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Javanese_people "Javanese people"), [Sundanese](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sundanese_people "Sundanese people"), [Malaysian](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism_in_Malaysia "Hinduism in Malaysia"), [Singaporean](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism_in_Singapore "Hinduism in Singapore"), [Vietnamese](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism_in_Vietnam "Hinduism in Vietnam"), and [Myanmar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism_in_Myanmar "Hinduism in Myanmar") Hindus. A similar marking is also worn by babies and children in [China](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/China "China") and, as in the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, represents the opening of the [third eye](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Third_eye "Third eye").[\[4\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-4) In [Hinduism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism "Hinduism"), [Buddhism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buddhism "Buddhism"), and [Jainism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jainism "Jainism") the bindi is associated with the [ajna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ajna "Ajna") [chakra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chakra "Chakra"), and [Bindu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindu_$symbol$ "Bindu (symbol)")[\[5\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-Mercier_2007._p._267-5) is known as the [third eye](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Third_eye "Third eye") chakra. [Bindu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindu_$symbol$ "Bindu (symbol)") is the point or dot around which the [mandala](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mandala "Mandala") is created, representing the universe.[\[6\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-Swami_Ranganathananda_1991_21-6)[\[7\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-Shakya,_p._82-83-7) The bindi has a religious, historical and cultural presence in the region of [India](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India "India") and with the Hindu, [Indian diaspora](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_diaspora "Indian diaspora") around the world.[\[8\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-8)[\[9\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-9) However, non-Hindu women in South Asian region may also wear bindi for fashion, good luck & beauty. ## Religious significance \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Bindi&action=edit&section=1 "Edit section: Religious significance")\] See also: [Ajna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ajna "Ajna"), [Chakra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chakra "Chakra"), [Bindu (symbol)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindu_$symbol$ "Bindu (symbol)"), and [Tilaka](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tilaka "Tilaka") [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/7d/Ajna_chakra.svg/250px-Ajna_chakra.svg.png)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Ajna_chakra.svg) [Ajna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ajna "Ajna") chakra has two lotus petals dedicated to the sun, the other to the moon (e.g. light and dark, or male and female) merged at the centre. [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/c/c9/Indian_Dancer_%28Malabika_Sen%29.jpg/250px-Indian_Dancer_%28Malabika_Sen%29.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Indian_Dancer_$Malabika_Sen$.jpg) Bindi and traditional head ornament with sun and moon pendants on an [Indian classical dancer](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_classical_dancer "Indian classical dancer") Traditionally, the area between the eyebrows (where the bindi is placed) is said to be the sixth [chakra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chakra "Chakra"), [ajna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ajna "Ajna"), the seat of "concealed wisdom." The bindi is said to retain energy and strengthen concentration. The bindi also represents the [third eye](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Third_eye "Third eye").[\[10\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-10) The [Nasadiya Sukta](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nasadiya_Sukta "Nasadiya Sukta") of the Rig Veda, the earliest known Sanskrit text, mentions the word [Bindu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindu_$symbol$ "Bindu (symbol)").[\[11\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-nasadiya-suktha-and-purusha-suktha-11) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/b0/Female_figure_with_hair_ornaments%2C_terracotta%2C_200-250_BCE.jpg/250px-Female_figure_with_hair_ornaments%2C_terracotta%2C_200-250_BCE.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Female_figure_with_hair_ornaments,_terracotta,_200-250_BCE.jpg) Female figure with bindi ornament, terracotta, 200–250 BCE The [Ajna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ajna "Ajna") is symbolised by a [sacred lotus](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nelumbo_nucifera "Nelumbo nucifera") with two petals, and corresponds to the colours violet, indigo or deep blue, though it is traditionally described as white. It is at this point that the two sides Nadi [Ida (yoga)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ida_$yoga$ "Ida (yoga)") and Pingala are said to terminate and merge with the central channel Sushumna, signifying the end of duality, the characteristic of being dual (e.g. light and dark, or male and female). The [seed syllable](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/B%C4%ABja "Bīja") for this chakra is the syllable OM, and the presiding deity is [Ardhanarishvara](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ardhanarishvara "Ardhanarishvara"), who is a half male, half female Shiva/Shakti. The Shakti goddess of Ajna is called Hakini. In metaphysics, [Bindu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindu_$symbol$ "Bindu (symbol)") is considered the dot or point at which creation begins and may become unity. It is also described as "the sacred symbol of the cosmos in its unmanifested state".[\[3\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-Khanna_1979:_p.171-3)[\[6\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-Swami_Ranganathananda_1991_21-6) Bindu is the point around which the [mandala](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mandala "Mandala") is created, representing the universe.[\[7\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-Shakya,_p._82-83-7) [Ajna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ajna "Ajna")'s key issues involve balancing the higher and lower selves and trusting inner guidance. Ajna's inner aspect relates to the access of intuition. Mentally, Ajna deals with visual consciousness. Emotionally, [Ajna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ajna "Ajna") deals with clarity on an intuitive level.[\[5\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-Mercier_2007._p._267-5) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/33/Prajnaparamita_Java.jpg/250px-Prajnaparamita_Java.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Prajnaparamita_Java.jpg) Goddess Tara depicted with [Ajna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ajna "Ajna") [Bhrumadhya Bindu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindu_$symbol$ "Bindu (symbol)") known as inner gaze. Bhrumadhya is the point in the centre of the forehead commonly referred to as the third eye, or centre of consciousness.[\[5\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-Mercier_2007._p._267-5) In Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, bindi is associated with Ajna Chakra and [Bindu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindu_$symbol$ "Bindu (symbol)").[\[5\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-Mercier_2007._p._267-5) Divinities in these religions are typically depicted with Bhrumadhya [Bindu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindu_$symbol$ "Bindu (symbol)"), in meditative pose with their eyes nearly closed show the gaze focused between eyebrows, other spot being the tip of the nose—Naasikagra. The very spot between the eyebrows known as Bhrumadhya is where one focuses one's sight, so that it helps concentration.[\[7\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-Shakya,_p._82-83-7) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/1f/Yakshi._Bharhut%2C_Satna%2C_C._2nd_cent_BC._Bhopal_Museum.jpg/250px-Yakshi._Bharhut%2C_Satna%2C_C._2nd_cent_BC._Bhopal_Museum.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Yakshi._Bharhut,_Satna,_C._2nd_cent_BC._Bhopal_Museum.jpg) Relief from stupa, 2nd century B.C. Only female figures were marked with the [sacred lotus](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nelumbo_nucifera "Nelumbo nucifera") during this period The bindi has multiple meanings: - Archaeology has yielded clay female figurines from the Indus Valley with red pigment on the forehead and hair parting. It is unclear whether this held any religious or cultural significance.[\[12\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-12) - In Hinduism, the colour red represents honour, love, and prosperity, hence bindis are worn to symbolise these qualities after marriage in particular.[\[13\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-13) - In meditation, the point between the eyebrows (Bhrumadhya) is where one focuses one's sight, to help concentration. Most images of Hindu, Jain or Buddhist divinities in meditative poses with their eyes nearly closed show the gaze focused between the eyebrows (another spot being the tip of the nose—naasikagra) - Swami Muktananda writes that "auspicious [Kumkuma](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kumkum "Kumkum") or sandalwood paste is applied (between the eyebrows) out of respect for the inner Guru. It is the Guru's seat. There is a chakra (centre of spiritual energy within the human body) here called Ajna chakra, meaning 'Command centre'. Here is received the Guru's command to go higher in Sadhana (spiritual practice) to the 'Sahasraar' (seventh and final chakra) which leads to Self-realisation. The flame seen at the eyebrow is called 'Guru Jyoti'."[\[14\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-14) - The encyclopaedic Dictionary of Yoga reports that this 'Ajna Chakra' is also called the 'Third eye'. This centre is connected with the sacred syllable '[Om](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Om "Om")' and presiding, is '[Parashiva](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parashiva "Parashiva")'. On activating this centre, the aspirant overcomes '[Ahankāra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ahamkara "Ahamkara")' (the ego or sense of individuality), the last stop on the path of spirituality.[\[15\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-15) The bindi continues to hold symbolic significance rooted in Indian mythology and is traditionally associated with Hindu culture. "wearing a bindi or mangalsutra is a sign of Hindu women. The traditional bindi still represents and preserves the symbolic significance that is integrated into Indian mythology in many parts of India." ## Traditional application method \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Bindi&action=edit&section=2 "Edit section: Traditional application method")\] [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/3c/HinduBrideIndia.jpg/250px-HinduBrideIndia.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:HinduBrideIndia.jpg) Bride with decorative bindis and maang tika between hair parting where married women apply [sindoor](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sindoor "Sindoor") A traditional bindi is red or maroon in colour as it mimics [sindoor](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sindoor "Sindoor") or [kumkum](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kumkuma "Kumkuma") which is used as part Hindu religious ceremonies and rituals along with [sandalwood](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sandalwood "Sandalwood"), [turmeric](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turmeric "Turmeric") and ash. A pinch of vermilion powder is applied with a ring-finger to make a dot. A small annular disc aids application for beginners. First, a sticky wax paste is applied through the empty centre of the disc. This is then covered with kumkum or vermilion and then the disc is removed to get a round bindi. Various materials such as [lac](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lac_$resin$ "Lac (resin)"), sandal, "aguru", [mica](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mica "Mica"), "kasturi", kumkum (made of red turmeric) and [sindoor](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sindoor "Sindoor") colour the dot. Saffron ground together with ["kusumba" flower](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Safflower "Safflower") can also work. Traditionally they are green in colour with a red dot in the middle.[\[16\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-16) The bindi is no longer restricted in colour or shape.[\[17\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-17)[\[18\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-hbc1-18) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/e/e5/Lac_Bindis.jpg/250px-Lac_Bindis.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Lac_Bindis.jpg) Ornamental bindis were made and sold by [lac](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lac_$resin$ "Lac (resin)") workers known as [Lakhera](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lakhera "Lakhera"). Historically, the ornamental bindi spangle consists of a small piece of lac over which is smeared vermilion, while above it a piece of mica or thin glass is fixed for ornament. Women wore large spangles set in gold with a border of jewels if they could afford it. The bindi was made and sold by lac workers known as [Lakhera](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lakhera "Lakhera").[\[19\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-19) In Hinduism, it's part of the Suhāg or lucky trousseau at marriages and is affixed to the girl's forehead on her wedding and thereafter always worn.[\[18\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-hbc1-18) Unmarried girls optionally wore small ornamental spangles on their foreheads. A widow was not allowed to wear bindi or any ornamentation associated with married women.[\[18\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-hbc1-18) In modern times, self-adhesive bindis are available in various materials, usually made of felt or thin metal and adhesive on the other side. These are simple to apply, disposable substitutes for older lac tikli bindis. Sticker bindis come in many colours, designs, materials, and sizes. [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/a0/Maker_unknown%2C_India_-_Krishna_and_Radha_-_Google_Art_Project.jpg/250px-Maker_unknown%2C_India_-_Krishna_and_Radha_-_Google_Art_Project.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Maker_unknown,_India_-_Krishna_and_Radha_-_Google_Art_Project.jpg) Courtesan [Bani Thani](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bani_Thani "Bani Thani") as [Radha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Radha "Radha") with ornamental bindi spangle, c. 1750 There are different regional variations of the bindi. In Maharashtra a large [crescent moon](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crescent "Crescent") shaped bindi is worn with a smaller black dot underneath or above, associated with [Chandrabindu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chandrabindu "Chandrabindu") and [Bindu chakra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindu_$symbol$ "Bindu (symbol)") represented by crescent moon, they are commonly known as Chandrakor in this region, outside Maharashtra they are popularly known as Marathi bindi. In Bengal region a large round red bindi is worn, brides in this region are often decorated with Alpana design on forehead and cheeks, along with bindi. In southern India a smaller red bindi is worn with a white tilak at the bottom, another common type is a red [tilak](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tilaka "Tilaka") shaped bindi. In Rajasthan the bindi is often worn round. Long [tilak](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tilaka "Tilaka") shaped bindi are also common, as well as the crescent moon on some occasions. Decorative bindis have become popular among women in South Asia, regardless of religious background. Bindis are a staple and symbolic for women in the Indian subcontinent.[\[20\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-20) In addition to the bindi, in India, a [vermilion](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vermilion "Vermilion") mark in the parting of the hair just above the forehead is worn by married women as a symbol of life-long commitment to their husbands. During all Hindu marriage ceremonies, the groom applies sindoor in the part in the bride's hair.[\[21\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-gwynne-21) Apart from their cosmetic use, bindis have found a modern medical application in India. Iodine patch bindis have often been used among women in north-west Maharashtra to battle iodine deficiency.[\[22\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-22) ### Related customs in other Asian regions \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Bindi&action=edit&section=3 "Edit section: Related customs in other Asian regions")\] [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/78/Bali-Danse_0717a.jpg/250px-Bali-Danse_0717a.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Bali-Danse_0717a.jpg) A [Balinese](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balinese_people "Balinese people") dancer with a white bindi See also: [Balinese Hinduism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balinese_Hinduism "Balinese Hinduism") and [Greater India](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greater_India "Greater India") In [Southeast Asia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Southeast_Asia "Southeast Asia"), bindis are worn by the [Balinese](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balinese_people "Balinese people"), [Javanese](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Javanese_people "Javanese people"), and [Sundanese people](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sundanese_people "Sundanese people") of [Indonesia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indonesia "Indonesia"). For example, bindis are often worn by brides and grooms in [Java](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Java "Java") and other parts of [Indonesia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indonesia "Indonesia"), regardless of their religious beliefs. The Indonesian practice of wearing a bindi originated from the cultural influence brought about by the [Indianized](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greater_India "Greater India") Hindu kingdoms that once ruled Indonesia. Historically, other Indianized kingdoms in [Southeast Asia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Southeast_Asia "Southeast Asia") also took part in this practice. ## Teep \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Bindi&action=edit&section=4 "Edit section: Teep")\] [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/bf/Festival_of_Colors_%287409586600%29.jpg/250px-Festival_of_Colors_%287409586600%29.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Festival_of_Colors_$7409586600$.jpg) [Bengali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bengalis "Bengalis") girl from [Bangladesh](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bangladesh "Bangladesh") wearing Teep on the occasion of [Pohela Boishakh](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pohela_Boishakh "Pohela Boishakh") Teep or tip, similar to bindis, are part of [Bengali culture](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bengali_culture "Bengali culture") and women in [West Bengal, India](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/West_Bengal "West Bengal") and [Bangladesh](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bangladesh "Bangladesh"), irrespective of their religion, adorn themselves with teeps as an ethnic practice.[\[23\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-23)[\[24\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-24)[\[25\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-25)[\[26\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-26) By the 18th century the use of teeps had become very common.[\[27\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-27) It's popular in celebrations like [Durga Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durga_Puja "Durga Puja"), [Pohela Boishakh](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pohela_Boishakh "Pohela Boishakh"), [Pohela Falgun](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pohela_Falgun "Pohela Falgun"), [Eid al-Fitr](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eid_al-Fitr "Eid al-Fitr"), [Eid al-Adha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eid_al-Adha "Eid al-Adha") and other occasions. [Bengali Muslims](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bengali_Muslim "Bengali Muslim") wear the teep as a cultural representation as it has been a long part of old Bengali culture, rooted deeply with old ethnic faiths, practices, religions, [Hinduism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism_in_Bangladesh "Hinduism in Bangladesh") & [Buddhism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buddhism "Buddhism"). Wearing teep or Bindi has also become a practice to express the stance against [terrorism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Terrorism "Terrorism"), [gender violence](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gender-related_violence "Gender-related violence"), inequality, and support toward the [Bengali culture](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Culture_of_Bengal "Culture of Bengal"). During [1971 liberation war](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bangladesh_Liberation_War "Bangladesh Liberation War"), female freedom fighters reportedly wore Teep or Bindis. Depending on the occasion the colours of teep change, such as red and white for Pohela Boishakh, green, orange and yellow for [Pohela Falgun](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pohela_Falgun "Pohela Falgun"), blue and white for [Barsha Mangal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barsha_Utsab "Barsha Utsab"), brown and mustard colour for [Nabanna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nabanna "Nabanna"), purple and pink for Eid Al Fitr and black for [International mother Language Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Mother_Language_Day "International Mother Language Day"), [Eid Al Adha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eid_Al_Adha "Eid Al Adha"), red and green for [Independence Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Independence_Day_$Bangladesh$ "Independence Day (Bangladesh)") and [Victory Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Victory_Day_$Bangladesh$ "Victory Day (Bangladesh)"). [Bengali Muslim brides](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bengali_Muslim_wedding "Bengali Muslim wedding") wearing "kalka tip" on their forehead is an old tradition of Bangladesh.[\[28\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-28) ## Bindis in Pakistan \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Bindi&action=edit&section=5 "Edit section: Bindis in Pakistan")\] In [Sindh](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sindh "Sindh"), some Muslim Sindhi women apply a black dot or line by "Kajjal or Surmo ([kohl](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kohl_$cosmetics$ "Kohl (cosmetics)"))" on the forehead and chin, and sometimes three dots or lines around eyes as part of historic Indian traditions that have sustained post-Partition. As an [amulet](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amulet "Amulet") believed to protect against the evil-eye, these dots are called Tikro or the Hindi '[Tilak](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tilaka "Tilaka")' (singular), or Tikra (plural).[\[29\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-29) Like in India, in Sindh, when a child is born, black dots/marks and lines are drawn on their faces. In modern times, stick-on bindiyas of different shapes and designs have become very common in rural Sindh, and are applied by both Muslims and Hindus. However, this is in decline as it is considered to be appropriately used by Sindhi Hindus only. Back in time in Sindh the brides were applied many dots of "Tira" (moles) drawn upon their face and lips with needles dipped in [antimony](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antimony "Antimony") and other colouring matters.[\[30\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-30) The type of forehead tattoo called Khaal or Sheen Khal was also common among Afghan and [Pashtun](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pashtuns "Pashtuns") women,[\[31\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-31)[\[32\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-32) although it is no longer done for religious reasons. As in Sindh, dots are made using kohl or other material. Bindis are also used by [Saraiki](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saraiki_people "Saraiki people") and some [Baloch](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baloch_people "Baloch people") tribal women of Pakistan. However, many [Muhajir](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muhajir_$Pakistan$ "Muhajir (Pakistan)") and [Punjabi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Punjabis "Punjabis") consider the use of bindis to be un-Islamic. Due to this, the use of bindis has declined in many urban areas of Pakistan. ## Modern use \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Bindi&action=edit&section=6 "Edit section: Modern use")\] [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/8c/2012-08_Woodstock_12.jpg/250px-2012-08_Woodstock_12.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:2012-08_Woodstock_12.jpg) Bindis and other religious affiliated markings are worn by recent Hindu converts like [Hare Krishnas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Society_for_Krishna_Consciousness "International Society for Krishna Consciousness").[\[33\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-33) Bindis are sometimes worn purely for decorative purpose or style statement without any religious or cultural affiliation.[\[34\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-34) Decorative and ornamental bindis were introduced to other parts of the world by immigrants from the Indian subcontinent.[\[35\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-35) International celebrities such as [Gwen Stefani](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gwen_Stefani "Gwen Stefani"), [Julia Roberts](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Julia_Roberts "Julia Roberts"),[\[36\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-36) [Madonna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Madonna_$entertainer$ "Madonna (entertainer)"),[\[37\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-37) [Selena Gomez](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Selena_Gomez "Selena Gomez") and many others have been seen wearing bindis.[\[38\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-38) The appropriateness of such uses has been disputed. Reacting to Gomez wearing a bindi while singing her song "[Come and Get It](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Come_%26_Get_It_$Selena_Gomez_song$ "Come & Get It (Selena Gomez song)")", Hindu leader [Rajan Zed](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rajan_Zed "Rajan Zed") said that the bindi has religious significance and should not be used as a fashion accessory,[\[39\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-39) but Indian actress [Priyanka Chopra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Priyanka_Chopra "Priyanka Chopra") praised Gomez's choice as "an embrace of Indian culture".[\[40\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-40) Additionally, several rappers have adopted jewelled bindis, most notably [Lil Uzi Vert](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lil_Uzi_Vert "Lil Uzi Vert"), who debuted a \$24 million pink diamond bindi in February 2021. They were inspired by [Lil B](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lil_B "Lil B") who wore a diamond bindi in 2012.[\[41\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-41) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/7a/Bindi_Tamil_Lady.jpg/250px-Bindi_Tamil_Lady.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Bindi_Tamil_Lady.jpg) Tamil woman wearing bindi ## Alternative terms \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Bindi&action=edit&section=7 "Edit section: Alternative terms")\] A bindi can also be called:[\[42\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-42) - Phot or Phut (literally meaning a small pressing mark) in [Assamese](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Assamese_language "Assamese language") - Tip (literally meaning "a pressing") in [Bengali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bengali_language "Bengali language") - Tikuli (literally meaning "a small [tika](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tilaka "Tilaka")") in [Madhyadeshi areas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Madheshi_people "Madheshi people") - Chandlo (literally meaning moon shape) in [Gujarati](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gujarati_language "Gujarati language") - [Tilaka](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tilak "Tilak") in [Hindi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindi_language "Hindi language") - Tika in [Nepali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nepali_language "Nepali language") - Kunkuma or Bottu or Tilaka in [Kannada](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kannada_language "Kannada language") - Tilakaya in [Sinhala](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sinhala_language "Sinhala language") - Tikli in [Konkani](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Konkani_language "Konkani language") - Kunkoo or Tikali in [Marathi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marathi_language "Marathi language") - Tikili in [Odia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Odia_language "Odia language") - Bindi in [Punjabi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Punjabi_language "Punjabi language") meaning long red mark - Pottu in [Tamil](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tamil_language "Tamil language") and [Malayalam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malayalam_language "Malayalam language") - Bottu, Kunkuma, or Tilakam in [Telugu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Telugu_language "Telugu language") - Tikli in [Maithili](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maithili_language "Maithili language") - Tyok in [Kashmiri](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kashmiri_language "Kashmiri language") - Tilkodi in [Sindhi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sindhi_Language "Sindhi Language") ## See also \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Bindi&action=edit&section=8 "Edit section: See also")\] - [Huadian](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Huadian_$make-up$ "Huadian (make-up)"), a traditional Chinese forehead decoration - [Paklei Namsa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paklei_Namsa "Paklei Namsa") - [Thirunamam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thirunamam "Thirunamam") - [Tilaka](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tilaka "Tilaka") - [Urna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Urna "Urna") - [Vibhuti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vibhuti "Vibhuti"), sacred ash applied across the forehead ## References \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Bindi&action=edit&section=9 "Edit section: References")\] 1. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-1) ["History and Etymology for bindi"](https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bindi). [Merriam-Webster](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Merriam-Webster "Merriam-Webster"). [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20220116032943/https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bindi) from the original on 16 January 2022. Retrieved 16 January 2022. "borrowed from Hindi bindī, literally, "dot, mark" (or a cognate Indo-Aryan word), going back to the Middle Indo-Aryan and Sanskrit stem bindu- "drop, spot," it's worn by Hindu, Buddhist, Jaina and some Sikhs" 2. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-2) ["Bindi etymology"](https://etymologeek.com/eng/bindi). Etymologeek. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20240914135842/https://cooljugator.com/etymology/en/bindi) from the original on 14 September 2024. Retrieved 16 January 2022. "English word bindi comes from Hindi बिंदी" 3. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-Khanna_1979:_p.171_3-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-Khanna_1979:_p.171_3-1) Khanna 1979: p. 171 4. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-4)* Xiaoou, Yu (10 September 2014). ["Guidelines for school entrance in ancient China"](http://en.chinaculture.org/chineseway/2014-09/10/content_562942.htm). ChinaCulture.org. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20180930092952/http://en.chinaculture.org/chineseway/2014-09/10/content_562942.htm) from the original on 30 September 2018. Retrieved 16 February 2018. 5. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-Mercier_2007._p._267_5-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-Mercier_2007._p._267_5-1) [c](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-Mercier_2007._p._267_5-2) [d](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-Mercier_2007._p._267_5-3) Mercier (2007). p. 267. 6. ^ [a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-Swami_Ranganathananda_1991_21_6-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-Swami_Ranganathananda_1991_21_6-1) [Swami Ranganathananda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ranganathananda "Ranganathananda") (1991). [Human Being in Depth: A Scientific Approach to Religion](https://books.google.com/books?id=P0vfFZh9BIIC&q=Big+Bang+theory+and+Indian+philosophy&pg=PA21). SUNY Press. p. 21. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [0791406792](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/0791406792 "Special:BookSources/0791406792") . 7. ^ [a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-Shakya,_p._82-83_7-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-Shakya,_p._82-83_7-1) [c](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-Shakya,_p._82-83_7-2) Shakya, pp. 82–83 8. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-8)* Southeast Asia: A Historical Encyclopedia, from Angkor Wat to East Timor, by [Keat Gin Ooi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keat_Gin_Ooi "Keat Gin Ooi") p. 642 9. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-9) Hindu-Buddhist Architecture in Southeast Asia by Daigorō Chihara p. 226 10. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-10) ["Couples Fuel India's Vibrant Art Scene"](https://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/14/arts/14iht-rartcouples14.html?pagewanted=2&_r=1&sq=bindi&st=cse&scp=1). [The New York Times](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_New_York_Times "The New York Times"). 13 October 2011. Retrieved 20 October 2011. 11. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-nasadiya-suktha-and-purusha-suktha_11-0) ["nasadiya-suktha-and-purusha-suktha"](http://loudthinkingkeyargomes.blogspot.ca/2012/09/nasadiya-suktha-and-purusha-suktha.html). 21 September 2012. 12. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-12) M. Kenoyer, Jonathan (1998). Ancient Cities of the Indus Valley Civilization (1st ed.). Oxford University Press. p. 186. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [0195779401](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/0195779401 "Special:BookSources/0195779401") . 13. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-13) Pintchman, Tracy (2007). [Women's Lives, Women's Rituals in the Hindu Tradition](https://archive.org/details/womensliveswomen00pint). Oxford. pp. [90](https://archive.org/details/womensliveswomen00pint/page/n106)–97. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0195177060](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0195177060 "Special:BookSources/978-0195177060") . 14. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-14) From Finite to Infinite, by Swami Muktananda, SYDA Foundation, S. Fallsburg, New York, 1989, pp. 88–89 15. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-15) Encyclopedic Dictionary of Yoga, by Georg Fuerstein, Paragon House Publishers, New York, 1990, p. 15 16. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-16) Bahadur, Om Lata (1996). [The book of Hindu festivals and ceremonies](https://archive.org/details/bookofhindufesti0000baha/page/168) (3rd ed.). New Delhi: UBS Publishers Distributors ltd. p. [168](https://archive.org/details/bookofhindufesti0000baha/page/168). [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [81-86112-23-5](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/81-86112-23-5 "Special:BookSources/81-86112-23-5") . 17. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-17) Khadi and Village Industries Commission, Government of India 18. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-hbc1_18-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-hbc1_18-1) [c](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-hbc1_18-2) Parvesh Handa, "Home Beauty Clinic", Pustak Mahal, [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [81-223-0099-5](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/81-223-0099-5 "Special:BookSources/81-223-0099-5") 19. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-19)* ["The Tribes and Castes of the Central Provinces of India—Volume IV"](https://www.gutenberg.org/files/20668/20668-h/20668-h.htm). 20. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-20) Priyabala Shah (April 1986) "Tilaka: Hindu marks on the forehead", p.88 21. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-gwynne_21-0) Gwynne, Paul (2009). [World Religions in Practice: A Comparative Introduction](https://books.google.com/books?id=tdsRKc_knZoC&q=Sindoor+wedding+groom&pg=RA5-PT91). Maiden, MA: Blackwell Publishing. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [9781444360059](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/9781444360059 "Special:BookSources/9781444360059") . 22. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-22) Dhar, Shobha (11 April 2015). ["Iodine bindis for tribal women to fight deficiency"](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Iodine-bindis-for-tribal-women-to-fight-deficiency/articleshow/46884611.cms). TNN. The Times of India. Retrieved 25 July 2015. 23. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-23) চৌধুরী, মধুমন্তী (22 September 2015). ["পুজোর বাজারে সাবেকি টিপ"](https://www.anandabazar.com/entertainment/puja-fashion-on-teep-and-bindia-1.211756). Anandabazar Online. Retrieved 25 December 2023. 24. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-24) ["Teep"](https://www.thedailystar.net/tags/teep). 25. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-25) P.K.BALACHANDRAN (17 April 2019). ["Bangladesh Asserts its Bengali Identity in Mass Celebration of Pohela Boishak"](https://www.thecitizen.in/index.php/en/NewsDetail/index/5/16732/Bangladesh-Asserts-its-Bengali-Identity-in-Mass-Celebration-of-Pohela-Boishak--). www.thecitizen.in. Retrieved 11 June 2023. 26. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-26) ["টিপটপ টিপ"](https://www.kalerkantho.com/feature/a2z/2020/03/22/889166). www.kalerkantho.com. March 2020. Retrieved 11 June 2023. 27. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-27) ইসলাম, সায়েদুল (2 April 2022). ["বাঙালি নারীদের মধ্যে টিপ পরার প্রচলন শুরু হলো যেভাবে"](https://www.bbc.com/bengali/news-60988562.amp). BBC. Retrieved 25 December 2023. 28. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-28) [Kalka](https://en.banglapedia.org/index.php/Kalka). [Banglapedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Banglapedia "Banglapedia"). 29. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-29) ["ٽڪو2 : (Sindhianaسنڌيانا)"](http://www.encyclopediasindhiana.org/article.php?Dflt=%D9%BD%DA%AA%D9%882). www.encyclopediasindhiana.org (in Sindhi). Retrieved 25 January 2024. 30. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-30) Burton, Sir Richard Francis (1851). [Sindh, and the Races that Inhabit the Valley of the Indus](https://books.google.com/books?id=RZQMzQLsyk0C). W. H. Allen. 31. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-31) ["Khaal, The Tattoo of Afghan Womxn"](https://www.herculture.org/blog/2021/3/31/khaal-the-tattoo-of-afghan-womxn). Her Culture. 24 May 2021. Retrieved 11 June 2023. 32. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-32) Khan, Moxet (25 November 2020). ["Sheen Khal / blue tattoo are the Beauty Marks for Pakhtun females"](https://pukhtoogle.com/sheen-khal-blue-tattoo-are-the-beauty-marks-for-pakhtun-females/). Pukhtoogle. Retrieved 11 June 2023. 33. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-33) ["Svami Sadananda Dasa: Disciple of Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati and Guru of Vamandas (Walther Eidlitz)"](http://www.sadananda.com/). sadananda.com. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20170926042014/http://www.sadananda.com/) from the original on 26 September 2017. Retrieved 1 October 2015. 34. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-34) [Khu phố Little India ở Artesia](http://arquivo.pt/wayback/20160522184733/http://www.nguoi-viet.com/absolutenm2/templates/?a=139901&z=268), Nguoi Viet Online, 11 November 2011, Retrieved 22 November 2011 35. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-35) [Juventud organiza un mercadillo solidario a beneficio de la Fundación Vicente Ferrer](http://www.elperiodic.com/denia/noticias/146263_juventud-organiza-mercadillo-solidario-beneficio-fundacion-vicente-ferrer.html) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20120407012251/http://www.elperiodic.com/denia/noticias/146263_juventud-organiza-mercadillo-solidario-beneficio-fundacion-vicente-ferrer.html) 7 April 2012 at the [Wayback Machine](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wayback_Machine "Wayback Machine"), elperiodic.com, 17 November 2011. Retrieved 22 November 2011 36. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-36) ["'Pretty Woman' in temple upset"](https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/8270556.stm). BBC News. 23 September 2009. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20090929194226/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/8270556.stm) from the original on 29 September 2009. Retrieved 26 April 2010. 37. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-37) ["Try a bindi now with Western wear"](https://web.archive.org/web/20120330081155/http://punjabnewsline.com/content/try-bindi-now-western-wear/29719). Punjab Newsline. 6 October 2011. Archived from [the original](http://punjabnewsline.com/content/try-bindi-now-western-wear/29719) on 30 March 2012. Retrieved 20 October 2011. 38. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-38) ["Should Selena Gomez apologize for wearing a bindi at the MTV Movie"](https://www.today.com/popculture/selena-gomez-causes-controversy-wearing-bindi-mtv-movie-awards-I533548). 17 April 2013. 39. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-39) Sieczkowski, Cavan (16 April 2013). ["Selena Gomez Bindi: Hindu Leaders Demand Apology For MTV Movie Awards Costume"](https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/04/16/selena-gomez-bindi-mtv-movie-awards_n_3092129.html). [Huffington Post](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Huffington_Post "Huffington Post"). Retrieved 25 September 2015. 40. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-40) DelliCarpini, Gregory Jr. (22 May 2013). ["Selena Gomez's Bindi Styling: Offensive? Bollywood Star Priyanka Chopra Talks About the Star's Usage"](https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/selena-gomezs-bindi-styling-offensive-bollywood-star-priyanka-1563147/). [Billboard](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Billboard_$magazine$ "Billboard (magazine)"). [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20150924215913/http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/the-hook/1563147/selena-gomezs-bindi-styling-offensive-bollywood-star-priyanka) from the original on 24 September 2015. Retrieved 25 September 2015. 41. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-41) ["Lil Uzi Vert's \$24 Million Forehead Diamond Was Inspired by Lil B"](https://exclaim.ca/music/article/lil_uzi_verts_24_million_forehead_diamond_was_inspired_by_lil_b). exclaim.ca. Retrieved 17 February 2021. 42. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-42) ["Dazzling bindis"](https://web.archive.org/web/20111012051854/http://lifestyle.in.msn.com/gallery/Photoviewer.aspx?cp-documentid=4248259). MSN India. 10 October 2011. Archived from [the original](https://lifestyle.in.msn.com/gallery/photoviewer.aspx?cp-documentid=4248259) on 12 October 2011. Retrieved 20 October 2011. ## External links \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Bindi&action=edit&section=10 "Edit section: External links")\] [![logo](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/4/4a/Commons-logo.svg/40px-Commons-logo.svg.png)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Commons-logo.svg) Wikimedia Commons has media related to [Bindi](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Bindi "commons:Category:Bindi"). \| [v](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template:Jewellery "Template:Jewellery") [t](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Template_talk:Jewellery "Template talk:Jewellery") [e](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:EditPage/Template:Jewellery "Special:EditPage/Template:Jewellery")[Jewellery](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jewellery "Jewellery") \| \| \|---\|---\| \| [Forms](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/List_of_jewellery_types "List of jewellery types") \| [Anklet](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Anklet "Anklet") [Barrette](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hair_clip "Hair clip") [Belly chain](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Belly_chain "Belly chain") [Belt buckle](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Belt_buckle "Belt buckle") [Bindi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi_$decoration$ "Bindi (decoration)") [Bolo tie](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bolo_tie "Bolo tie") [Bracelet](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bracelet "Bracelet") [Brooch](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brooch "Brooch") [Chain](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jewellery_chain "Jewellery chain") [Chatelaine](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chatelaine_$chain$ "Chatelaine (chain)") [Collar pin](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Collar_pin "Collar pin") [Crown](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crown "Crown") [Cufflink](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cufflink "Cufflink") [Earring](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Earring "Earring") [Ferronnière](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ferronni%C3%A8re "Ferronnière") [Lapel pin](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lapel_pin "Lapel pin") [Necklace](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Necklace "Necklace") [Neck ring](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Neck_ring "Neck ring") [Pectoral](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pectoral_$Ancient_Egypt$ "Pectoral (Ancient Egypt)") [Pendant](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pendant "Pendant") [Permanent jewellery](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Permanent_jewellery "Permanent jewellery") [Ring](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ring_$jewellery$ "Ring (jewellery)") [Tiara](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tiara "Tiara") [Tie chain](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tie_chain "Tie chain") [Tie clip](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tie_clip "Tie clip") [Tie pin](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tie_pin "Tie pin") [Toe ring](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toe_ring "Toe ring") [Watch](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Watch "Watch") [pocket](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pocket_watch "Pocket watch") [strap](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Watch_strap "Watch strap") \| \| Making \| \| \| \| \| \| People \| [Bench jeweler](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bench_jeweler "Bench jeweler") [Clockmaker](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Clockmaker "Clockmaker") [Goldsmith](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Goldsmith "Goldsmith") [Jewellery designer](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jewellery_design "Jewellery design") [Lapidarist](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lapidary "Lapidary") [Silversmith](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Silversmith "Silversmith") [Watchmaker](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Watchmaker "Watchmaker") \| \| Processes \| [Carving](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cameo_$carving$ "Cameo (carving)") [Casting](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metal_casting "Metal casting") [centrifugal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Centrifugal_casting_$silversmithing$ "Centrifugal casting (silversmithing)") [lost-wax](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lost-wax_casting "Lost-wax casting") [vacuum](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metal_casting "Metal casting") [Enameling](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vitreous_enamel "Vitreous enamel") [Engraving](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Engraved_gem "Engraved gem") [Filigree](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Filigree "Filigree") [Foldforming](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Foldforming "Foldforming") [Jewelry model](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jewelry_model "Jewelry model") [Metal clay](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metal_clay "Metal clay") [Plating](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Plating "Plating") [Polishing](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Polishing_$metalworking$ "Polishing (metalworking)") [Repoussé and chasing](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Repouss%C3%A9_and_chasing "Repoussé and chasing") [Soldering](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soldering "Soldering") [Stonesetting](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stonesetting "Stonesetting") [Wire sculpture](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wire_sculpture "Wire sculpture") [Wire wrapped jewelry](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wire_wrapped_jewelry "Wire wrapped jewelry") \| \| Tools \| [Draw plate](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Draw_plate "Draw plate") [File](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File_$tool$ "File (tool)") [Hammer](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hammer "Hammer") [Mandrel](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mandrel "Mandrel") [Pliers](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pliers "Pliers") \| \| Materials \| \| \| \| \| \| [Precious metals](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Precious_metal "Precious metal") \| [Gold](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gold "Gold") [Palladium](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Palladium "Palladium") [Platinum](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Platinum "Platinum") [Rhodium](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rhodium "Rhodium") [Silver](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Silver "Silver") \| \| Precious metal [alloys](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Alloy "Alloy") \| [Britannia silver](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Britannia_silver "Britannia silver") [Colored gold](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Colored_gold "Colored gold") [Crown gold](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crown_gold "Crown gold") [Electrum](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Electrum "Electrum") [Shakudō](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shakud%C5%8D "Shakudō") [Shibuichi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shibuichi "Shibuichi") [Sterling silver](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sterling_silver "Sterling silver") [Argentium](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Argentium_sterling_silver "Argentium sterling silver") [Tumbaga](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tumbaga "Tumbaga") \| \| [Base metals](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Base_metal "Base metal") \| [Brass](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Brass "Brass") [Bronze](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bronze "Bronze") [Copper](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Copper "Copper") [Mokume-gane](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mokume-gane "Mokume-gane") [Nickel silver (alpacca)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nickel_silver "Nickel silver"): [Niobium](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Niobium "Niobium") [Pewter](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pewter "Pewter") [Pinchbeck](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pinchbeck_$alloy$ "Pinchbeck (alloy)") [Stainless steel](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Stainless_steel "Stainless steel") [Titanium](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Titanium "Titanium") [Tungsten](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tungsten "Tungsten") \| \| Mineral [gemstones](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gemstone "Gemstone") \| [Agate](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Agate "Agate") [Amazonite](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amazonite "Amazonite") [Amethyst](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amethyst "Amethyst") [Aventurine](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aventurine "Aventurine") [Beryl](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Beryl "Beryl") ([red](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Red_beryl "Red beryl")) [Carnelian](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carnelian "Carnelian") [Chrysoberyl](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chrysoberyl "Chrysoberyl") [Chrysocolla](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chrysocolla "Chrysocolla") [Citrine](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Citrine_$quartz$ "Citrine (quartz)") [Diamond](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diamond "Diamond") [Diopside](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Diopside "Diopside") [Emerald](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Emerald "Emerald") [Fluorite](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fluorite "Fluorite") [Garnet](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Garnet "Garnet") [Howlite](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Howlite "Howlite") [Jade](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jade "Jade") [Jasper](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jasper "Jasper") [Kyanite](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kyanite "Kyanite") [Labradorite](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Labradorite "Labradorite") [Lapis lazuli](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lapis_lazuli "Lapis lazuli") [Larimar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Larimar "Larimar") [Malachite](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malachite "Malachite") [Marcasite](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marcasite_jewellery "Marcasite jewellery") [Moonstone](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Moonstone_$gemstone$ "Moonstone (gemstone)") [Obsidian](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Obsidian "Obsidian") [Onyx](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Onyx "Onyx") [Opal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Opal "Opal") [Peridot](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Peridot "Peridot") [Prasiolite](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Prasiolite "Prasiolite") [Quartz](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Quartz "Quartz") ([smoky](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Smoky_quartz "Smoky quartz")) [Ruby](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ruby "Ruby") [Sapphire](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sapphire "Sapphire") [Sodalite](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sodalite "Sodalite") [Spinel](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spinel "Spinel") [Sunstone](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sunstone "Sunstone") [Tanzanite](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tanzanite "Tanzanite") [Tiger's eye](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tiger%27s_eye "Tiger's eye") [Topaz](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Topaz "Topaz") [Tourmaline](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tourmaline "Tourmaline") [Turquoise](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turquoise "Turquoise") [Variscite](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Variscite "Variscite") [Zircon](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zircon "Zircon") \| \| Organic gemstones \| [Abalone](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Abalone "Abalone") [Amber](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amber "Amber") [Ammolite](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ammolite "Ammolite") [Copal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Copal "Copal") [Coral](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Coral "Coral") [Black](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Black_coral "Black coral") [Precious](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Precious_coral "Precious coral") [Ivory](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ivory "Ivory") [Jet](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jet_$gemstone$ "Jet (gemstone)") [Nacre](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nacre "Nacre") [Operculum](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Operculum_$gastropod$ "Operculum (gastropod)") [Pearl](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pearl "Pearl") [Tortoiseshell](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tortoiseshell "Tortoiseshell") \| \| Other natural objects \| [Bezoar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bezoar "Bezoar") [Bog-wood](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bog-wood "Bog-wood") [Ebonite (vulcanite)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ebonite "Ebonite") [Gutta-percha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gutta-percha "Gutta-percha") [Hair](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hair_jewellery "Hair jewellery") [Shell](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Shell_jewelry "Shell jewelry") [Spondylus shell](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Spondylus "Spondylus") [Toadstone](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Toadstone "Toadstone") \| \| Terms \| [Art jewelry](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Art_jewelry "Art jewelry") [Carat](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Carat_$mass$ "Carat (mass)") (mass) [Carat](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fineness#Carat "Fineness") (purity) [Finding](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Finding_$jewelcrafting$ "Finding (jewelcrafting)") [Fineness](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fineness "Fineness") \| \| Related topics [Body piercing](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Body_piercing "Body piercing") [Fashion](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Fashion "Fashion") [Gemology](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gemology "Gemology") [Metalworking](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Metalworking "Metalworking") [Phaleristics](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Phaleristics "Phaleristics") [Wearable art](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wearable_art "Wearable art") \| \| \| [Authority control databases](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Help:Authority_control "Help:Authority control") [![Edit this at Wikidata](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/8/8a/OOjs_UI_icon_edit-ltr-progressive.svg/20px-OOjs_UI_icon_edit-ltr-progressive.svg.png)](https://www.wikidata.org/wiki/Q747901#identifiers "Edit this at Wikidata") \| \| \|---\|---\| \| National \| [United States](https://id.loc.gov/authorities/sh90001429) 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Readable Markdown	From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/4/42/Kullu_Himachal_Pradesh_India_Woman.jpg/250px-Kullu_Himachal_Pradesh_India_Woman.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Kullu_Himachal_Pradesh_India_Woman.jpg) Hindu woman in [Kullu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kullu "Kullu"), Himachal Pradesh wearing a stick-on bindi A bindi (from [Sanskrit](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sanskrit "Sanskrit") [bindú](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindu_$symbol$ "Bindu (symbol)") meaning "point, drop, dot or small particle")[\[1\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-1)[\[2\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-2) is a coloured dot or, in modern times, a [sticker](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sticker "Sticker") worn on the centre of the forehead, by Hindus, Jains and Buddhists from the [Indian subcontinent](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_subcontinent "Indian subcontinent") in place of the [tilak](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tilaka "Tilaka"). While modern stick-on bindis are worn by many women following Indian religions, they may also use [sandalwood](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sandalwood "Sandalwood") paste or create a tilak using [kajal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kohl_$cosmetics$ "Kohl (cosmetics)") as is the original practice followed by both men and women. A bindi is a bright dot of some colour applied in the centre of the forehead close to the [eyebrows](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eyebrow "Eyebrow") or in the middle of the forehead that is worn in the Indian subcontinent (particularly amongst female Hindus in [India](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India "India"), [Nepal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nepal "Nepal"), [Bhutan](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bhutan "Bhutan"), [Bangladesh](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bangladesh "Bangladesh") and [Sri Lanka](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sri_Lanka "Sri Lanka"))[\[3\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-Khanna_1979:_p.171-3) and Southeast Asia among [Balinese](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balinese_people "Balinese people"), [Javanese](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Javanese_people "Javanese people"), [Sundanese](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sundanese_people "Sundanese people"), [Malaysian](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism_in_Malaysia "Hinduism in Malaysia"), [Singaporean](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism_in_Singapore "Hinduism in Singapore"), [Vietnamese](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism_in_Vietnam "Hinduism in Vietnam"), and [Myanmar](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism_in_Myanmar "Hinduism in Myanmar") Hindus. A similar marking is also worn by babies and children in [China](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/China "China") and, as in the Indian subcontinent and Southeast Asia, represents the opening of the [third eye](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Third_eye "Third eye").[\[4\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-4) In [Hinduism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism "Hinduism"), [Buddhism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buddhism "Buddhism"), and [Jainism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jainism "Jainism") the bindi is associated with the [ajna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ajna "Ajna") [chakra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chakra "Chakra"), and [Bindu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindu_$symbol$ "Bindu (symbol)")[\[5\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-Mercier_2007._p._267-5) is known as the [third eye](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Third_eye "Third eye") chakra. [Bindu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindu_$symbol$ "Bindu (symbol)") is the point or dot around which the [mandala](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mandala "Mandala") is created, representing the universe.[\[6\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-Swami_Ranganathananda_1991_21-6)[\[7\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-Shakya,_p._82-83-7) The bindi has a religious, historical and cultural presence in the region of [India](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/India "India") and with the Hindu, [Indian diaspora](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indian_diaspora "Indian diaspora") around the world.[\[8\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-8)[\[9\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-9) However, non-Hindu women in South Asian region may also wear bindi for fashion, good luck & beauty. ## Religious significance \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Bindi&action=edit&section=1 "Edit section: Religious significance")\] [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/7d/Ajna_chakra.svg/250px-Ajna_chakra.svg.png)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Ajna_chakra.svg) [Ajna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ajna "Ajna") chakra has two lotus petals dedicated to the sun, the other to the moon (e.g. light and dark, or male and female) merged at the centre. Traditionally, the area between the eyebrows (where the bindi is placed) is said to be the sixth [chakra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chakra "Chakra"), [ajna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ajna "Ajna"), the seat of "concealed wisdom." The bindi is said to retain energy and strengthen concentration. The bindi also represents the [third eye](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Third_eye "Third eye").[\[10\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-10) The [Nasadiya Sukta](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nasadiya_Sukta "Nasadiya Sukta") of the Rig Veda, the earliest known Sanskrit text, mentions the word [Bindu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindu_$symbol$ "Bindu (symbol)").[\[11\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-nasadiya-suktha-and-purusha-suktha-11) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/b0/Female_figure_with_hair_ornaments%2C_terracotta%2C_200-250_BCE.jpg/250px-Female_figure_with_hair_ornaments%2C_terracotta%2C_200-250_BCE.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Female_figure_with_hair_ornaments,_terracotta,_200-250_BCE.jpg) Female figure with bindi ornament, terracotta, 200–250 BCE The [Ajna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ajna "Ajna") is symbolised by a [sacred lotus](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nelumbo_nucifera "Nelumbo nucifera") with two petals, and corresponds to the colours violet, indigo or deep blue, though it is traditionally described as white. It is at this point that the two sides Nadi [Ida (yoga)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ida_$yoga$ "Ida (yoga)") and Pingala are said to terminate and merge with the central channel Sushumna, signifying the end of duality, the characteristic of being dual (e.g. light and dark, or male and female). The [seed syllable](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/B%C4%ABja "Bīja") for this chakra is the syllable OM, and the presiding deity is [Ardhanarishvara](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ardhanarishvara "Ardhanarishvara"), who is a half male, half female Shiva/Shakti. The Shakti goddess of Ajna is called Hakini. In metaphysics, [Bindu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindu_$symbol$ "Bindu (symbol)") is considered the dot or point at which creation begins and may become unity. It is also described as "the sacred symbol of the cosmos in its unmanifested state".[\[3\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-Khanna_1979:_p.171-3)[\[6\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-Swami_Ranganathananda_1991_21-6) Bindu is the point around which the [mandala](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mandala "Mandala") is created, representing the universe.[\[7\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-Shakya,_p._82-83-7) [Ajna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ajna "Ajna")'s key issues involve balancing the higher and lower selves and trusting inner guidance. Ajna's inner aspect relates to the access of intuition. Mentally, Ajna deals with visual consciousness. Emotionally, [Ajna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ajna "Ajna") deals with clarity on an intuitive level.[\[5\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-Mercier_2007._p._267-5) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/33/Prajnaparamita_Java.jpg/250px-Prajnaparamita_Java.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Prajnaparamita_Java.jpg) Goddess Tara depicted with [Ajna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ajna "Ajna") [Bhrumadhya Bindu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindu_$symbol$ "Bindu (symbol)") known as inner gaze. Bhrumadhya is the point in the centre of the forehead commonly referred to as the third eye, or centre of consciousness.[\[5\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-Mercier_2007._p._267-5) In Hinduism, Buddhism, and Jainism, bindi is associated with Ajna Chakra and [Bindu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindu_$symbol$ "Bindu (symbol)").[\[5\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-Mercier_2007._p._267-5) Divinities in these religions are typically depicted with Bhrumadhya [Bindu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindu_$symbol$ "Bindu (symbol)"), in meditative pose with their eyes nearly closed show the gaze focused between eyebrows, other spot being the tip of the nose—Naasikagra. The very spot between the eyebrows known as Bhrumadhya is where one focuses one's sight, so that it helps concentration.[\[7\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-Shakya,_p._82-83-7) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/1/1f/Yakshi._Bharhut%2C_Satna%2C_C._2nd_cent_BC._Bhopal_Museum.jpg/250px-Yakshi._Bharhut%2C_Satna%2C_C._2nd_cent_BC._Bhopal_Museum.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Yakshi._Bharhut,_Satna,_C._2nd_cent_BC._Bhopal_Museum.jpg) Relief from stupa, 2nd century B.C. Only female figures were marked with the [sacred lotus](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nelumbo_nucifera "Nelumbo nucifera") during this period The bindi has multiple meanings: - Archaeology has yielded clay female figurines from the Indus Valley with red pigment on the forehead and hair parting. It is unclear whether this held any religious or cultural significance.[\[12\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-12) - In Hinduism, the colour red represents honour, love, and prosperity, hence bindis are worn to symbolise these qualities after marriage in particular.[\[13\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-13) - In meditation, the point between the eyebrows (Bhrumadhya) is where one focuses one's sight, to help concentration. Most images of Hindu, Jain or Buddhist divinities in meditative poses with their eyes nearly closed show the gaze focused between the eyebrows (another spot being the tip of the nose—naasikagra) - Swami Muktananda writes that "auspicious [Kumkuma](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kumkum "Kumkum") or sandalwood paste is applied (between the eyebrows) out of respect for the inner Guru. It is the Guru's seat. There is a chakra (centre of spiritual energy within the human body) here called Ajna chakra, meaning 'Command centre'. Here is received the Guru's command to go higher in Sadhana (spiritual practice) to the 'Sahasraar' (seventh and final chakra) which leads to Self-realisation. The flame seen at the eyebrow is called 'Guru Jyoti'."[\[14\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-14) - The encyclopaedic Dictionary of Yoga reports that this 'Ajna Chakra' is also called the 'Third eye'. This centre is connected with the sacred syllable '[Om](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Om "Om")' and presiding, is '[Parashiva](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Parashiva "Parashiva")'. On activating this centre, the aspirant overcomes '[Ahankāra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ahamkara "Ahamkara")' (the ego or sense of individuality), the last stop on the path of spirituality.[\[15\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-15) The bindi continues to hold symbolic significance rooted in Indian mythology and is traditionally associated with Hindu culture. "wearing a bindi or mangalsutra is a sign of Hindu women. The traditional bindi still represents and preserves the symbolic significance that is integrated into Indian mythology in many parts of India." ## Traditional application method \[[edit](https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Bindi&action=edit&section=2 "Edit section: Traditional application method")\] [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/3/3c/HinduBrideIndia.jpg/250px-HinduBrideIndia.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:HinduBrideIndia.jpg) Bride with decorative bindis and maang tika between hair parting where married women apply [sindoor](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sindoor "Sindoor") A traditional bindi is red or maroon in colour as it mimics [sindoor](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sindoor "Sindoor") or [kumkum](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kumkuma "Kumkuma") which is used as part Hindu religious ceremonies and rituals along with [sandalwood](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sandalwood "Sandalwood"), [turmeric](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Turmeric "Turmeric") and ash. A pinch of vermilion powder is applied with a ring-finger to make a dot. A small annular disc aids application for beginners. First, a sticky wax paste is applied through the empty centre of the disc. This is then covered with kumkum or vermilion and then the disc is removed to get a round bindi. Various materials such as [lac](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lac_$resin$ "Lac (resin)"), sandal, "aguru", [mica](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mica "Mica"), "kasturi", kumkum (made of red turmeric) and [sindoor](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sindoor "Sindoor") colour the dot. Saffron ground together with ["kusumba" flower](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Safflower "Safflower") can also work. Traditionally they are green in colour with a red dot in the middle.[\[16\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-16) The bindi is no longer restricted in colour or shape.[\[17\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-17)[\[18\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-hbc1-18) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/e/e5/Lac_Bindis.jpg/250px-Lac_Bindis.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Lac_Bindis.jpg) Ornamental bindis were made and sold by [lac](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lac_$resin$ "Lac (resin)") workers known as [Lakhera](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lakhera "Lakhera"). Historically, the ornamental bindi spangle consists of a small piece of lac over which is smeared vermilion, while above it a piece of mica or thin glass is fixed for ornament. Women wore large spangles set in gold with a border of jewels if they could afford it. The bindi was made and sold by lac workers known as [Lakhera](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lakhera "Lakhera").[\[19\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-19) In Hinduism, it's part of the Suhāg or lucky trousseau at marriages and is affixed to the girl's forehead on her wedding and thereafter always worn.[\[18\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-hbc1-18) Unmarried girls optionally wore small ornamental spangles on their foreheads. A widow was not allowed to wear bindi or any ornamentation associated with married women.[\[18\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-hbc1-18) In modern times, self-adhesive bindis are available in various materials, usually made of felt or thin metal and adhesive on the other side. These are simple to apply, disposable substitutes for older lac tikli bindis. Sticker bindis come in many colours, designs, materials, and sizes. [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/a/a0/Maker_unknown%2C_India_-_Krishna_and_Radha_-_Google_Art_Project.jpg/250px-Maker_unknown%2C_India_-_Krishna_and_Radha_-_Google_Art_Project.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Maker_unknown,_India_-_Krishna_and_Radha_-_Google_Art_Project.jpg) Courtesan [Bani Thani](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bani_Thani "Bani Thani") as [Radha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Radha "Radha") with ornamental bindi spangle, c. 1750 There are different regional variations of the bindi. In Maharashtra a large [crescent moon](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Crescent "Crescent") shaped bindi is worn with a smaller black dot underneath or above, associated with [Chandrabindu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chandrabindu "Chandrabindu") and [Bindu chakra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindu_$symbol$ "Bindu (symbol)") represented by crescent moon, they are commonly known as Chandrakor in this region, outside Maharashtra they are popularly known as Marathi bindi. In Bengal region a large round red bindi is worn, brides in this region are often decorated with Alpana design on forehead and cheeks, along with bindi. In southern India a smaller red bindi is worn with a white tilak at the bottom, another common type is a red [tilak](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tilaka "Tilaka") shaped bindi. In Rajasthan the bindi is often worn round. Long [tilak](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tilaka "Tilaka") shaped bindi are also common, as well as the crescent moon on some occasions. Decorative bindis have become popular among women in South Asia, regardless of religious background. Bindis are a staple and symbolic for women in the Indian subcontinent.[\[20\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-20) In addition to the bindi, in India, a [vermilion](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vermilion "Vermilion") mark in the parting of the hair just above the forehead is worn by married women as a symbol of life-long commitment to their husbands. During all Hindu marriage ceremonies, the groom applies sindoor in the part in the bride's hair.[\[21\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-gwynne-21) Apart from their cosmetic use, bindis have found a modern medical application in India. Iodine patch bindis have often been used among women in north-west Maharashtra to battle iodine deficiency.[\[22\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-22) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/78/Bali-Danse_0717a.jpg/250px-Bali-Danse_0717a.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Bali-Danse_0717a.jpg) A [Balinese](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balinese_people "Balinese people") dancer with a white bindi In [Southeast Asia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Southeast_Asia "Southeast Asia"), bindis are worn by the [Balinese](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Balinese_people "Balinese people"), [Javanese](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Javanese_people "Javanese people"), and [Sundanese people](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sundanese_people "Sundanese people") of [Indonesia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indonesia "Indonesia"). For example, bindis are often worn by brides and grooms in [Java](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Java "Java") and other parts of [Indonesia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Indonesia "Indonesia"), regardless of their religious beliefs. The Indonesian practice of wearing a bindi originated from the cultural influence brought about by the [Indianized](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Greater_India "Greater India") Hindu kingdoms that once ruled Indonesia. Historically, other Indianized kingdoms in [Southeast Asia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Southeast_Asia "Southeast Asia") also took part in this practice. [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/b/bf/Festival_of_Colors_%287409586600%29.jpg/250px-Festival_of_Colors_%287409586600%29.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Festival_of_Colors_$7409586600$.jpg) [Bengali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bengalis "Bengalis") girl from [Bangladesh](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bangladesh "Bangladesh") wearing Teep on the occasion of [Pohela Boishakh](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pohela_Boishakh "Pohela Boishakh") Teep or tip, similar to bindis, are part of [Bengali culture](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bengali_culture "Bengali culture") and women in [West Bengal, India](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/West_Bengal "West Bengal") and [Bangladesh](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bangladesh "Bangladesh"), irrespective of their religion, adorn themselves with teeps as an ethnic practice.[\[23\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-23)[\[24\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-24)[\[25\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-25)[\[26\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-26) By the 18th century the use of teeps had become very common.[\[27\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-27) It's popular in celebrations like [Durga Puja](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Durga_Puja "Durga Puja"), [Pohela Boishakh](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pohela_Boishakh "Pohela Boishakh"), [Pohela Falgun](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pohela_Falgun "Pohela Falgun"), [Eid al-Fitr](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eid_al-Fitr "Eid al-Fitr"), [Eid al-Adha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eid_al-Adha "Eid al-Adha") and other occasions. [Bengali Muslims](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bengali_Muslim "Bengali Muslim") wear the teep as a cultural representation as it has been a long part of old Bengali culture, rooted deeply with old ethnic faiths, practices, religions, [Hinduism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hinduism_in_Bangladesh "Hinduism in Bangladesh") & [Buddhism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Buddhism "Buddhism"). Wearing teep or Bindi has also become a practice to express the stance against [terrorism](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Terrorism "Terrorism"), [gender violence](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gender-related_violence "Gender-related violence"), inequality, and support toward the [Bengali culture](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Culture_of_Bengal "Culture of Bengal"). During [1971 liberation war](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bangladesh_Liberation_War "Bangladesh Liberation War"), female freedom fighters reportedly wore Teep or Bindis. Depending on the occasion the colours of teep change, such as red and white for Pohela Boishakh, green, orange and yellow for [Pohela Falgun](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pohela_Falgun "Pohela Falgun"), blue and white for [Barsha Mangal](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Barsha_Utsab "Barsha Utsab"), brown and mustard colour for [Nabanna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nabanna "Nabanna"), purple and pink for Eid Al Fitr and black for [International mother Language Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Mother_Language_Day "International Mother Language Day"), [Eid Al Adha](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Eid_Al_Adha "Eid Al Adha"), red and green for [Independence Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Independence_Day_$Bangladesh$ "Independence Day (Bangladesh)") and [Victory Day](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Victory_Day_$Bangladesh$ "Victory Day (Bangladesh)"). [Bengali Muslim brides](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bengali_Muslim_wedding "Bengali Muslim wedding") wearing "kalka tip" on their forehead is an old tradition of Bangladesh.[\[28\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-28) In [Sindh](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sindh "Sindh"), some Muslim Sindhi women apply a black dot or line by "Kajjal or Surmo ([kohl](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kohl_$cosmetics$ "Kohl (cosmetics)"))" on the forehead and chin, and sometimes three dots or lines around eyes as part of historic Indian traditions that have sustained post-Partition. As an [amulet](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Amulet "Amulet") believed to protect against the evil-eye, these dots are called Tikro or the Hindi '[Tilak](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tilaka "Tilaka")' (singular), or Tikra (plural).[\[29\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-29) Like in India, in Sindh, when a child is born, black dots/marks and lines are drawn on their faces. In modern times, stick-on bindiyas of different shapes and designs have become very common in rural Sindh, and are applied by both Muslims and Hindus. However, this is in decline as it is considered to be appropriately used by Sindhi Hindus only. Back in time in Sindh the brides were applied many dots of "Tira" (moles) drawn upon their face and lips with needles dipped in [antimony](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Antimony "Antimony") and other colouring matters.[\[30\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-30) The type of forehead tattoo called Khaal or Sheen Khal was also common among Afghan and [Pashtun](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Pashtuns "Pashtuns") women,[\[31\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-31)[\[32\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-32) although it is no longer done for religious reasons. As in Sindh, dots are made using kohl or other material. Bindis are also used by [Saraiki](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Saraiki_people "Saraiki people") and some [Baloch](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Baloch_people "Baloch people") tribal women of Pakistan. However, many [Muhajir](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muhajir_$Pakistan$ "Muhajir (Pakistan)") and [Punjabi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Punjabis "Punjabis") consider the use of bindis to be un-Islamic. Due to this, the use of bindis has declined in many urban areas of Pakistan. [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/8c/2012-08_Woodstock_12.jpg/250px-2012-08_Woodstock_12.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:2012-08_Woodstock_12.jpg) Bindis and other religious affiliated markings are worn by recent Hindu converts like [Hare Krishnas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/International_Society_for_Krishna_Consciousness "International Society for Krishna Consciousness").[\[33\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-33) Bindis are sometimes worn purely for decorative purpose or style statement without any religious or cultural affiliation.[\[34\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-34) Decorative and ornamental bindis were introduced to other parts of the world by immigrants from the Indian subcontinent.[\[35\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-35) International celebrities such as [Gwen Stefani](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gwen_Stefani "Gwen Stefani"), [Julia Roberts](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Julia_Roberts "Julia Roberts"),[\[36\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-36) [Madonna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Madonna_$entertainer$ "Madonna (entertainer)"),[\[37\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-37) [Selena Gomez](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Selena_Gomez "Selena Gomez") and many others have been seen wearing bindis.[\[38\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-38) The appropriateness of such uses has been disputed. Reacting to Gomez wearing a bindi while singing her song "[Come and Get It](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Come_%26_Get_It_$Selena_Gomez_song$ "Come & Get It (Selena Gomez song)")", Hindu leader [Rajan Zed](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rajan_Zed "Rajan Zed") said that the bindi has religious significance and should not be used as a fashion accessory,[\[39\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-39) but Indian actress [Priyanka Chopra](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Priyanka_Chopra "Priyanka Chopra") praised Gomez's choice as "an embrace of Indian culture".[\[40\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-40) Additionally, several rappers have adopted jewelled bindis, most notably [Lil Uzi Vert](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lil_Uzi_Vert "Lil Uzi Vert"), who debuted a \$24 million pink diamond bindi in February 2021. They were inspired by [Lil B](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Lil_B "Lil B") who wore a diamond bindi in 2012.[\[41\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-41) [![](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/7/7a/Bindi_Tamil_Lady.jpg/250px-Bindi_Tamil_Lady.jpg)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Bindi_Tamil_Lady.jpg) Tamil woman wearing bindi A bindi can also be called:[\[42\]](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_note-42) - Phot or Phut (literally meaning a small pressing mark) in [Assamese](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Assamese_language "Assamese language") - Tip (literally meaning "a pressing") in [Bengali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bengali_language "Bengali language") - Tikuli (literally meaning "a small [tika](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tilaka "Tilaka")") in [Madhyadeshi areas](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Madheshi_people "Madheshi people") - Chandlo (literally meaning moon shape) in [Gujarati](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Gujarati_language "Gujarati language") - [Tilaka](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tilak "Tilak") in [Hindi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Hindi_language "Hindi language") - Tika in [Nepali](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Nepali_language "Nepali language") - Kunkuma or Bottu or Tilaka in [Kannada](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kannada_language "Kannada language") - Tilakaya in [Sinhala](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sinhala_language "Sinhala language") - Tikli in [Konkani](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Konkani_language "Konkani language") - Kunkoo or Tikali in [Marathi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marathi_language "Marathi language") - Tikili in [Odia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Odia_language "Odia language") - Bindi in [Punjabi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Punjabi_language "Punjabi language") meaning long red mark - Pottu in [Tamil](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tamil_language "Tamil language") and [Malayalam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Malayalam_language "Malayalam language") - Bottu, Kunkuma, or Tilakam in [Telugu](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Telugu_language "Telugu language") - Tikli in [Maithili](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Maithili_language "Maithili language") - Tyok in [Kashmiri](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kashmiri_language "Kashmiri language") - Tilkodi in [Sindhi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sindhi_Language "Sindhi Language") - [Huadian](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Huadian_$make-up$ "Huadian (make-up)"), a traditional Chinese forehead decoration - [Paklei Namsa](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Paklei_Namsa "Paklei Namsa") - [Thirunamam](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Thirunamam "Thirunamam") - [Tilaka](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tilaka "Tilaka") - [Urna](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Urna "Urna") - [Vibhuti](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vibhuti "Vibhuti"), sacred ash applied across the forehead 1. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-1) ["History and Etymology for bindi"](https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bindi). [Merriam-Webster](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Merriam-Webster "Merriam-Webster"). [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20220116032943/https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/bindi) from the original on 16 January 2022. Retrieved 16 January 2022. "borrowed from Hindi bindī, literally, "dot, mark" (or a cognate Indo-Aryan word), going back to the Middle Indo-Aryan and Sanskrit stem bindu- "drop, spot," it's worn by Hindu, Buddhist, Jaina and some Sikhs" 2. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-2) ["Bindi etymology"](https://etymologeek.com/eng/bindi). Etymologeek. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20240914135842/https://cooljugator.com/etymology/en/bindi) from the original on 14 September 2024. Retrieved 16 January 2022. "English word bindi comes from Hindi बिंदी" 3. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-Khanna_1979:_p.171_3-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-Khanna_1979:_p.171_3-1) Khanna 1979: p. 171 4. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-4)* Xiaoou, Yu (10 September 2014). ["Guidelines for school entrance in ancient China"](http://en.chinaculture.org/chineseway/2014-09/10/content_562942.htm). ChinaCulture.org. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20180930092952/http://en.chinaculture.org/chineseway/2014-09/10/content_562942.htm) from the original on 30 September 2018. Retrieved 16 February 2018. 5. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-Mercier_2007._p._267_5-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-Mercier_2007._p._267_5-1) [c](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-Mercier_2007._p._267_5-2) [d](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-Mercier_2007._p._267_5-3) Mercier (2007). p. 267. 6. ^ [a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-Swami_Ranganathananda_1991_21_6-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-Swami_Ranganathananda_1991_21_6-1) [Swami Ranganathananda](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ranganathananda "Ranganathananda") (1991). [Human Being in Depth: A Scientific Approach to Religion](https://books.google.com/books?id=P0vfFZh9BIIC&q=Big+Bang+theory+and+Indian+philosophy&pg=PA21). SUNY Press. p. 21. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [0791406792](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/0791406792 "Special:BookSources/0791406792") . 7. ^ [a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-Shakya,_p._82-83_7-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-Shakya,_p._82-83_7-1) [c](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-Shakya,_p._82-83_7-2) Shakya, pp. 82–83 8. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-8)* Southeast Asia: A Historical Encyclopedia, from Angkor Wat to East Timor, by [Keat Gin Ooi](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Keat_Gin_Ooi "Keat Gin Ooi") p. 642 9. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-9) Hindu-Buddhist Architecture in Southeast Asia by Daigorō Chihara p. 226 10. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-10) ["Couples Fuel India's Vibrant Art Scene"](https://www.nytimes.com/2011/10/14/arts/14iht-rartcouples14.html?pagewanted=2&_r=1&sq=bindi&st=cse&scp=1). [The New York Times](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_New_York_Times "The New York Times"). 13 October 2011. Retrieved 20 October 2011. 11. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-nasadiya-suktha-and-purusha-suktha_11-0) ["nasadiya-suktha-and-purusha-suktha"](http://loudthinkingkeyargomes.blogspot.ca/2012/09/nasadiya-suktha-and-purusha-suktha.html). 21 September 2012. 12. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-12) M. Kenoyer, Jonathan (1998). Ancient Cities of the Indus Valley Civilization (1st ed.). Oxford University Press. p. 186. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [0195779401](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/0195779401 "Special:BookSources/0195779401") . 13. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-13) Pintchman, Tracy (2007). [Women's Lives, Women's Rituals in the Hindu Tradition](https://archive.org/details/womensliveswomen00pint). Oxford. pp. [90](https://archive.org/details/womensliveswomen00pint/page/n106)–97. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [978-0195177060](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/978-0195177060 "Special:BookSources/978-0195177060") . 14. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-14) From Finite to Infinite, by Swami Muktananda, SYDA Foundation, S. Fallsburg, New York, 1989, pp. 88–89 15. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-15) Encyclopedic Dictionary of Yoga, by Georg Fuerstein, Paragon House Publishers, New York, 1990, p. 15 16. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-16) Bahadur, Om Lata (1996). [The book of Hindu festivals and ceremonies](https://archive.org/details/bookofhindufesti0000baha/page/168) (3rd ed.). New Delhi: UBS Publishers Distributors ltd. p. [168](https://archive.org/details/bookofhindufesti0000baha/page/168). [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [81-86112-23-5](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/81-86112-23-5 "Special:BookSources/81-86112-23-5") . 17. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-17) Khadi and Village Industries Commission, Government of India 18. ^ [*a](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-hbc1_18-0) [b](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-hbc1_18-1) [c](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-hbc1_18-2) Parvesh Handa, "Home Beauty Clinic", Pustak Mahal, [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [81-223-0099-5](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/81-223-0099-5 "Special:BookSources/81-223-0099-5") 19. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-19)* ["The Tribes and Castes of the Central Provinces of India—Volume IV"](https://www.gutenberg.org/files/20668/20668-h/20668-h.htm). 20. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-20) Priyabala Shah (April 1986) "Tilaka: Hindu marks on the forehead", p.88 21. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-gwynne_21-0) Gwynne, Paul (2009). [World Religions in Practice: A Comparative Introduction](https://books.google.com/books?id=tdsRKc_knZoC&q=Sindoor+wedding+groom&pg=RA5-PT91). Maiden, MA: Blackwell Publishing. [ISBN](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ISBN_$identifier$ "ISBN (identifier)") [9781444360059](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Special:BookSources/9781444360059 "Special:BookSources/9781444360059") . 22. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-22) Dhar, Shobha (11 April 2015). ["Iodine bindis for tribal women to fight deficiency"](https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/Iodine-bindis-for-tribal-women-to-fight-deficiency/articleshow/46884611.cms). TNN. The Times of India. Retrieved 25 July 2015. 23. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-23) চৌধুরী, মধুমন্তী (22 September 2015). ["পুজোর বাজারে সাবেকি টিপ"](https://www.anandabazar.com/entertainment/puja-fashion-on-teep-and-bindia-1.211756). Anandabazar Online. Retrieved 25 December 2023. 24. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-24) ["Teep"](https://www.thedailystar.net/tags/teep). 25. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-25) P.K.BALACHANDRAN (17 April 2019). ["Bangladesh Asserts its Bengali Identity in Mass Celebration of Pohela Boishak"](https://www.thecitizen.in/index.php/en/NewsDetail/index/5/16732/Bangladesh-Asserts-its-Bengali-Identity-in-Mass-Celebration-of-Pohela-Boishak--). www.thecitizen.in. Retrieved 11 June 2023. 26. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-26) ["টিপটপ টিপ"](https://www.kalerkantho.com/feature/a2z/2020/03/22/889166). www.kalerkantho.com. March 2020. Retrieved 11 June 2023. 27. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-27) ইসলাম, সায়েদুল (2 April 2022). ["বাঙালি নারীদের মধ্যে টিপ পরার প্রচলন শুরু হলো যেভাবে"](https://www.bbc.com/bengali/news-60988562.amp). BBC. Retrieved 25 December 2023. 28. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-28) [Kalka](https://en.banglapedia.org/index.php/Kalka). [Banglapedia](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Banglapedia "Banglapedia"). 29. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-29) ["ٽڪو2 : (Sindhianaسنڌيانا)"](http://www.encyclopediasindhiana.org/article.php?Dflt=%D9%BD%DA%AA%D9%882). www.encyclopediasindhiana.org (in Sindhi). Retrieved 25 January 2024. 30. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-30) Burton, Sir Richard Francis (1851). [Sindh, and the Races that Inhabit the Valley of the Indus](https://books.google.com/books?id=RZQMzQLsyk0C). W. H. Allen. 31. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-31) ["Khaal, The Tattoo of Afghan Womxn"](https://www.herculture.org/blog/2021/3/31/khaal-the-tattoo-of-afghan-womxn). Her Culture. 24 May 2021. Retrieved 11 June 2023. 32. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-32) Khan, Moxet (25 November 2020). ["Sheen Khal / blue tattoo are the Beauty Marks for Pakhtun females"](https://pukhtoogle.com/sheen-khal-blue-tattoo-are-the-beauty-marks-for-pakhtun-females/). Pukhtoogle. Retrieved 11 June 2023. 33. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-33) ["Svami Sadananda Dasa: Disciple of Bhaktisiddhanta Sarasvati and Guru of Vamandas (Walther Eidlitz)"](http://www.sadananda.com/). sadananda.com. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20170926042014/http://www.sadananda.com/) from the original on 26 September 2017. Retrieved 1 October 2015. 34. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-34) [Khu phố Little India ở Artesia](http://arquivo.pt/wayback/20160522184733/http://www.nguoi-viet.com/absolutenm2/templates/?a=139901&z=268), Nguoi Viet Online, 11 November 2011, Retrieved 22 November 2011 35. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-35) [Juventud organiza un mercadillo solidario a beneficio de la Fundación Vicente Ferrer](http://www.elperiodic.com/denia/noticias/146263_juventud-organiza-mercadillo-solidario-beneficio-fundacion-vicente-ferrer.html) [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20120407012251/http://www.elperiodic.com/denia/noticias/146263_juventud-organiza-mercadillo-solidario-beneficio-fundacion-vicente-ferrer.html) 7 April 2012 at the [Wayback Machine](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Wayback_Machine "Wayback Machine"), elperiodic.com, 17 November 2011. Retrieved 22 November 2011 36. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-36) ["'Pretty Woman' in temple upset"](https://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/8270556.stm). BBC News. 23 September 2009. [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20090929194226/http://news.bbc.co.uk/2/hi/south_asia/8270556.stm) from the original on 29 September 2009. Retrieved 26 April 2010. 37. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-37) ["Try a bindi now with Western wear"](https://web.archive.org/web/20120330081155/http://punjabnewsline.com/content/try-bindi-now-western-wear/29719). Punjab Newsline. 6 October 2011. Archived from [the original](http://punjabnewsline.com/content/try-bindi-now-western-wear/29719) on 30 March 2012. Retrieved 20 October 2011. 38. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-38) ["Should Selena Gomez apologize for wearing a bindi at the MTV Movie"](https://www.today.com/popculture/selena-gomez-causes-controversy-wearing-bindi-mtv-movie-awards-I533548). 17 April 2013. 39. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-39) Sieczkowski, Cavan (16 April 2013). ["Selena Gomez Bindi: Hindu Leaders Demand Apology For MTV Movie Awards Costume"](https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/04/16/selena-gomez-bindi-mtv-movie-awards_n_3092129.html). [Huffington Post](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Huffington_Post "Huffington Post"). Retrieved 25 September 2015. 40. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-40) DelliCarpini, Gregory Jr. (22 May 2013). ["Selena Gomez's Bindi Styling: Offensive? Bollywood Star Priyanka Chopra Talks About the Star's Usage"](https://www.billboard.com/music/music-news/selena-gomezs-bindi-styling-offensive-bollywood-star-priyanka-1563147/). [Billboard](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Billboard_$magazine$ "Billboard (magazine)"). [Archived](https://web.archive.org/web/20150924215913/http://www.billboard.com/articles/columns/the-hook/1563147/selena-gomezs-bindi-styling-offensive-bollywood-star-priyanka) from the original on 24 September 2015. Retrieved 25 September 2015. 41. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-41) ["Lil Uzi Vert's \$24 Million Forehead Diamond Was Inspired by Lil B"](https://exclaim.ca/music/article/lil_uzi_verts_24_million_forehead_diamond_was_inspired_by_lil_b). exclaim.ca. Retrieved 17 February 2021. 42. [^](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bindi#cite_ref-42) ["Dazzling bindis"](https://web.archive.org/web/20111012051854/http://lifestyle.in.msn.com/gallery/Photoviewer.aspx?cp-documentid=4248259). MSN India. 10 October 2011. Archived from [the original](https://lifestyle.in.msn.com/gallery/photoviewer.aspx?cp-documentid=4248259) on 12 October 2011. Retrieved 20 October 2011. [![logo](https://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/en/thumb/4/4a/Commons-logo.svg/40px-Commons-logo.svg.png)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/File:Commons-logo.svg) Wikimedia Commons has media related to [Bindi](https://commons.wikimedia.org/wiki/Category:Bindi "commons:Category:Bindi").
Shard	152 (laksa)
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Unparsed URL	org,wikipedia!en,/wiki/Bindi s443