In the Hindu tradition, there is a special practice of applying tilak on the forehead during religious rituals. According to religious beliefs, tilak symbolizes faith and devotion to the deities. This is why it is applied during worship, temple visits, and various auspicious events. According to astrologer Shailendra Pandey, there are different methods and rules for applying tilak. It is believed that applying tilak helps calm the mind and improve concentration.
Astrologer Shailendra Pandey discussed the benefits of using sandalwood, kumkum, saffron, and bhasma for tilak, as well as the rules and associated planetary beliefs.
Significance of applying tilak
According to religious beliefs, tilak is a symbol of devotion and faith in the gods. Therefore, after applying tilak, a person should monitor both their behavior and their actions. Astrologer Shailendra Pandey outlined several rules regarding the application of tilak. Tilak must be applied with a clean body after taking a shower. First, one should apply tilak to their patron deity, and then to themselves. As a rule, the ring finger is used to apply tilak to oneself, while the thumb is used to apply tilak to another person.
It is also recommended to avoid sleeping after applying tilak.
Which tilaks are beneficial
In the Hindu tradition, there is a belief about the benefits derived from applying tilak made from different substances. According to astrologer Shailendra Pandey, white sandalwood tilak is used to calm the mind and improve concentration. Tilak made of roli and kumkum is associated with attractiveness. Saffron tilak is considered auspicious for increasing fame and recognition. There is a belief that applying Gorochana tilak helps achieve success in endeavors. Ashtaganda tilak is associated with knowledge and intelligence, so it is considered beneficial for students. As for bhasma, it is a symbol of devotion to Lord Shiva, and according to religious beliefs, it is also associated with protection from calamities.
Which tilak to use to strengthen planets
In astrology, there is a belief in the necessity of applying different tilaks for different planets. Astrologer Shailendra Pandey asserts that red sandalwood tilak should be applied with the ring finger for the Sun. White sandalwood is recommended for the Moon, and orange sindur for Mars. It is also advised to apply Ashtaganda tilak for Mercury and saffron tilak for Jupiter. There is a tradition of first applying roli, and then akshat over it for Venus. For Saturn, Rahu, and Ketu, there is a belief in applying bhasma with three fingers on the forehead, which is also called Tripundra.
Should women wear black bindi?
There are also various opinions regarding women wearing a black bindi. Some people consider black color a symbol of grief and sorrow. Therefore, it is said that married women should refrain from wearing a black bindi or black tilak, as this is considered inauspicious for family life.


