Kumkum, Chandan & Tilak

Kumkum, roli, sandalwood paste and powder, ashtagandha, gopi chandan and sindoor for marking the deity and the devotee's forehead.

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A red dot, a line of sandalwood or a U-shaped mark of clay can tell you a good deal about a person's tradition. Kumkum and chandan, with the other tilak materials, are among the oldest items in Hindu worship, offered to the deity and then applied to the forehead as prasad.

Kumkum and roli are red powders traditionally made from turmeric treated with lime. Chandan comes as a solid stick to be rubbed on a stone slab with water, or as ready powder and paste, and its cool scent makes it a favourite for Shiva and Vishnu. Ashtagandha is a fragrant blend of several ingredients, gopi chandan is the yellowish clay many Vaishnavas use for their urdhva pundra, and sindoor is offered to Hanuman and Ganesha.

Before buying kumkum and chandan, read the ingredients and try a little on the skin first. Store powders in lidded boxes, keep chandan sticks dry after rubbing, and use a separate spoon so the colours stay clean.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between kumkum and roli?

The names are often used for the same red powder. In some regions roli is slightly coarser and used mainly for tilak and puja thalis, while kumkum is finer.

How do I use a chandan stick?

Rub the stick on a flat stone slab with a few drops of water until a smooth paste forms, then apply it with a finger. Let the stick and slab dry afterwards.

What is gopi chandan used for?

It is a clay traditionally used by many Vaishnava devotees to draw the urdhva pundra tilak on the forehead and body.

Can these powders irritate the skin?

Some people react to certain colours or additives. Read the label and try a small amount on the skin before regular use.