Why do Indian women put a ‘bindi’ on their forehead? Is there a science behind it – The Times of India

The bindi, that little colourful dot on the forehead, is much more than just a fashion choice—though it certainly adds a unique touch! It’s a symbol rich in culture, history, and even a bit of science. The word “bindi” comes from the Sanskrit word “bindu,”meaning “dot” or “point.” But it’s not just any dot—it holds deep significance in Indian traditions. In many cultures, it represents spiritual awakening and is connected to the “third eye,” the center of wisdom and intuition. The bindi is a sign of a connection to the divine and inner strength. It’s a dot with a lot of meaning that has evolved in many ways over time. Let’s explore how this simple mark carries such a rich legacy!

Tradition and symbolism

Let’s start with the basics: the bindi has deep roots in Hindu culture. It traditionally symbolised the “third eye,” the seat of wisdom, in the middle of the forehead. This spot is believed to be an energy center in the body, known as the “ajna” or “brow chakra,” connected to intuition, knowledge, and spiritual insight. Wearing a bindi was a way of acknowledging that connection to the divine, and over time, it became a symbol of good fortune, prosperity, and spiritual favour.
In addition to its spiritual significance, the bindi also carries social and cultural meanings. Married women often wear a bindi to indicate their marital status, similar to a wedding ring. The red bindi, in particular, is associated with the goddess Shakti, symbolizing love, fertility, and protection. Young girls, however, may wear colourful or decorative bindis, reflecting a lighter side of tradition.

A touch of style

The bindi has deep traditional roots, but today it’s also a trendy fashion accessory. You can find bindis in various colours, sizes, and shapes, often matched with outfits to add a touch of sparkle or contrast. Designers have embraced the bindi, making it popular not only in India but around the world.
What makes the bindi so special is its versatility—whether it’s a simple dot, a gemstone, or a detailed design, it can be as subtle or bold as the wearer wants. For many, it’s a way to show their individuality while staying connected to their culture.

Scientific and health benefits of the bindi

In Vedic times, the bindi, known as ’tilak,’ was applied during rituals as a symbol of divine blessing. It was placed on the Ajna Chakra, or “third eye,” which is believed to be the centre of intuition and spiritual insight. Today, wearing a bindi continues to offer both cultural and health benefits. It’s known to help relieve headaches and clear up sinuses by applying gentle pressure on the forehead. The bindi is also said to improve vision, skin health, and even hearing by stabilising the energy flow in the body. It helps reduce stress, boost concentration, and enhance memory. In essence, the bindi not only has spiritual roots but also supports mental clarity, emotional balance, and overall well-being.

Cultural evolution and contemporary use

As the world becomes more connected, the bindi has crossed cultural boundaries. It’s now embraced by people from different backgrounds, especially in the West, where it’s often seen as a symbol of bohemian style or spirituality. Bollywood movies and pop culture have also helped popularise the bindi, making it a symbol of femininity, elegance, and empowerment. For example, Selena Gomez wore a bindi in her song “Come and Get It,” blending it with Indian classical background music, which helped bring more attention to its cultural significance and beauty, while also connecting with the Indian audience.

So, why do Indian women put a bindi on their forehead? It’s not just about fashion; it’s about embracing a rich cultural tradition that brings spiritual, aesthetic, and health-related benefits. The bindi can add a splash of color to an outfit, connect the wearer to inner wisdom, or pay homage to ancient customs. Whether it’s a simple dot or a colourful design, the bindi is much more than just fashion. It’s a meaningful mark with a rich history and a lot of significance.