Know Why It Is Auspicious To Apply Tilak on the Forehead

Sanatana Dharma has, from time immemorial, recommended applying vermillion or Tilak on the forehead as it is auspicious. Some scientific studies conducted suggest that there are many benefits of it. Read below to know the religious meaning and the various benefits of applying Tilak on the forehead.

Hindus, have been following the belief and ritual of applying Tilak for ages. Even today people who have devotion to God follow it. There is a special importance and significance of applying Tilak on the devotee’s forehead in the Hindu religion and consider it an integral aspect of their culture. Apart from applying Tilak on auspicious events and rituals like marriage, some people follow it daily.

It is said that applying Tilak on the forehead activates the Ajna Chakra (the space between the two eyebrows) of a person. In yogic science, this is an energy channel, the third eye and has great power. As per Astrology, there are as many as seven chakras in the middle of the forehead and are said to be the energy centres. Applying Tilak in this particular area has many benefits and helps in opening the doors of materialism and spirituality.

Even when applying the Tilak, it is not done randomly but according to law and religious belief. Various ingredients are used, including red sandalwood paste, kumkum, turmeric, ashes, or white sandalwood paste. Along with the spiritual feeling, there are many reasons for applying Tilak on the forehead.

It is a Symbol of Purity

As per astrology, applying Tilak is deemed to be a symbol of righteousness. It is believed that the presiding deity lies in the middle of the forehead and by putting it on the forehead, you are respecting and energising the presiding deity. There is also a belief that wearing a Tilak on the forehead shows reverence to the presiding or family deity who is worshipped every day at home.    

Ajna Chakra Awakening

According to yogic beliefs, there are seven energy centres mentioned in the holy scriptures, which are powerhouses of energy. The Ajna Chakra, present between the two eyebrows, is the most important one as it carries ending power. The three Nadis through the body meet at this point and are given great importance. So it is said that applying Tilak is important at this place.

Symbol of Faith

According to scriptures like the Puranas, Tilak is the symbol of faith. So, it is applied before any work is done.

Reduces Stress and Restores Positivity

Applying tilak on the forehead activates the pituitary glands in the body and this helps energise the body and the person feels refreshed. Mental stress is also reduced, and the person feels at peace in their personal and professional life. Another scientific reason behind the goodness of applying Tilak is that the mind becomes serene and in a state of tranquillity because of the chemicals that the brain releases. The result is that feelings of despair, apathy and negativity are reduced, and the person becomes more positive. It also helps enhance concentration and provides positive vibes.

Increases Physical Health

The Nadi Mandal gets activated when a person applies Tilak on the forehead. When this is done regularly, you can get rid of issues like sinus, insomnia and other psychological problems. That is the reason Hindu women are asked to apply Tilak every day. Vedic scriptures, Puranas and the Upanishads have mentioned the significance of Tilak and have said that it infuses strength, vitality and an eternal feeling when Tilak is applied on the forehead. 

Types Of Tilaks

There are different types of Tilaks based on the gods worshipped and the caste, sect, etc, that one follows. Here are some common types:

Lord Shiva

Those who follow Lord Shiva apply Bhasm/ Vibuthi on the forehead. It is traditionally gathered from burnt wood from the place of Yagna. It is said that applying this Bhasm on the forehead destroys evil forces, brings glory and protects from ill health.

Lord Vishnu

Lord Vishnu devotees apply Sandalwood (Chandan) paste on the forehead in the form of a U that extends until the node. The U depicts the lotus feet of Vishnu and devotees apply this on their forehead. Apart from the religious aspects, Sandalwood has cooling properties and cures headaches.

Goddess Lakshmi

Applying Kukmum by married Hindu women is compulsory as it is believed that the woman of the house is the Goddess Lakshmi of the house. Kumkum which is derived by adding turmeric powder and lime is said to be auspicious to women. It has to be applied in a round shape and is considered auspicious. The fragrance of the Kumkum is said to draw the divinity of the Gods. It is believed that those who wear Kumkum are shielded from negativities and setbacks as  Kumkum releases positive energy.

To Conclude

Applying tilak on the forehead is not only cultural and spiritual; it also has a scientific basis. So, if you are not following it because you do not know the reason for it, the above are some good reasons to wear tilak on the forehead.