Bindi (Bindu) and its relation to the Energy Center in the body

Bindi, Tilakam, Tilak all the same names. Bindi is the traditional custom of wearing the so called "dot" on the forehead close to the area between the eyebrows (mid brow area). 

Bindi has long been considered as a mark of beauty and decoration. It is worn by most of the females of  India  and some other countries of South Asia. it is a Hindu custom. Usually a red bindi is worn, but these days there are a number of colourful bindis available. 

Traditionally, in India, even men used to wear the crimson red Tilakam that was mostly "Kumkum". The kumkum is obtained from a combination of dried turmeric and slaked lime. Kumkum can even be made from saffron.  Turmeric and Saffron are very well known for their antibacterial properties. The natural kumkum is, in the present day, partly replaced by artificial stickers and paints. it is also a custom in India to offer kumkum to guests and apply it to their mid brow area during auspicious occasions and when bidding farewell. It is considered as a way of showing respect and affection. However with the passing ages, tilakam or bindi wearing is now being followed  by some females only. Its a pity though to see the customs slowly decreasing in popularity.

The significance and Importance of wearing Bindi goes way beyond just beautification and good looks.

The position of the "Bindi" or "Bindu" , sanskrit word/s that in english means "Dot" is usually between the eyebrows or slightly above the area along the midline of the face. This area between the eyebrows corresponds to the Sixth Chakra (energy center) called "Ajna" Chakra of the Kundalini ( the central channel of energy of the human body). "Ajna" (Agna) means command. Any mild touch or pressure over this area helps in the stimulation of the energy center. The Bindi resting on the skin of the area applies the constant touch that provides some stimulation of the energy center. The pressure applied during the application of the Bindi (done daily) is also stimulating.This stimulus is very good for activating and balancing our body energy field. The similar is true for application of kumkum to the scalp in the mid-partition of the hair. This area stays close to the Sahasrara chakra. The position of Ajna Chakra is coincident with the position of the pineal gland. The position of the Sahasrar Chakra corresponds to that of the pituitary gland. Thus application of tilakam or bindi is not for mere charm or decoration but has a great implication.