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A bindi (Template:Lang-hi meaning "dot") is a forehead decoration worn in Indian Subcontinent and Southeast Asia It may also be called a pottu or a tilaka.
Married Hindu women traditionally wear a bindi on their foreheads. The traditional bindi is made with red sindoor powder or perhaps a black ointment. It is applied over the forehead, at the spot of the Third eye.
Outside Indian Subcontinent , bindis may be worn by women of Indian origin. Some Westerners who have converted to Hindu dharma, like the Hare Krishna may wear bindis. Sometimes they are worn as a style statement. International celebrities such as Shakira, Gwen Stefani, Madonna, and Shania Twain have been seen wearing bindis.
The bindi is often associated with women, but in fact it can be worn, either by itself or as part of a more elaborate caste-mark (naamam) by tradition-minded Hindu men.
Religious Significance
The area between the eyebrows (where the bindi is placed) is said to be the sixth chakra, agni, the seat of "concelaed wisdom". In the Tantric practices, this chakra is said to be the exit point for kundalini energy. The bindi is said to provide better concentration and is way to retain the energy. . The bindi is believed to prevent the loss of "energy", as well as bringing spiritual protection against demons or bad luck. The religious significance of the Bindi is quite similar to the Tilaka as well.
In Modern Times
In modern times, the bindi has become a decorative item and is worn by unmarried as well as non-Hindu women, in India, Bangladesh and other countries of South Asia. It is no longer restricted in colour or shape. Self-adhesive bindis made from felt in various designs and colours are now available.