2. History Behind Bindi:
• The bindi was used in medieval times as well. In
earlier times, wearing Bindi or Tika was known as
Visesakachhedya. It was done by using leaves of
different shapes and then painting the forehead
with them. The other names for these bindi using
leaves were Patrachhedya, Patralekha or
Patrabhanga. Bindi was also used as a way to
worship one’s intellect. So, it was worn by both
men and women. It was also a part of the wedding
ceremony where the groom applied a drop of his
blood between his brides’ eyes to secure their
wedding.
3. Purpose of Wearing a Bindi:
• The bindi is worn at the centre of the forehead and between
the eyebrows. That is the place known for the hidden
wisdom. It is also the place for the third eye. It is believed
that the bindi can hold on to strength and energy of the
wearer. There are various beliefs and myths surrounding the
red coloured bindi. Some say red represents strength or
power while others believe that the color red symbolizes love
and so on. It also symbolizes the marital status of a woman.
It symbolizes power and energy. It is believed to protect a
woman and her husband. It can be worn by women of
different religion. However, according to the Islamic religion,
tradition of wearing a bindi is not permitted. It resembles
Hindu tradition or symbols. Bindi is also worn as a fashion
symbol. Instead of using the traditional red dot, different
varieties of dots or forms are used as bindi.
4. Modern Use of Bindi:
• The use of bindi today has seen a significant change. It is now
worn by people across the globe. It is no longer limited to
age, marital status, religion and gender. It has now become a
prominent fashion statement. So, it now comes in various
colors, shapes and designs. The most convenient bindi
available are sticker bindis. These are readymade bindis,
which have gum and just need to be stuck to the forehead.
The decorations on the bindi are done using beads, stones,
glitters, pearls, sequins etc. The popularity of bindi is now
widespread. It is no longer confined to South Asia.
International figures like Selena Gomez, Madonna are using
bindi as a fashion statement. The use of bindi is no longer
limited to forehead. It can now be worn in different ways in
different body parts. It can also be worn as a Tattoo.
