The word "bindi" is derived from the sanskrit word "bindu", which means "drop". Traditionally, it symbolizes a personīs mystic third eye and his or her connection with the universal principle of creation. It is a symbol of awareness, good fortune and festivity. The center of a person's forehead is said to be one of the most important pressure points on the human body. Therefore, bindis were created to focus our attention to this particular point.
In some parts of India the bindi is a sign of marriage. In the religious arena the bindi is worn by both men and women and has retained its spiritual significance. Men wear a bindi-mark on their forehead, especially for traditional ceremonies. The bridegroom's make-up is incomplete without the bindi.
Today, the bindi is also used for purely decorative purposes. Around the turn of the millennium, it has made its way into international fashion and is now considered as one of the hottest and trendiest fashion accessories for the bold and the beautiful. Bindis are worn on any part of the body, most commonly on the forehead and other parts of the face but also on chest, shoulder or belly. There is no limitation to the creativity of its wearer.
High-quality bindis are self-adhesive. After repeated use, it may be convenient to apply a suitable cosmetic adhesive, available in drugstores, or a special adhesive for bindis.
People wear bindis to match their outfit, enhance their attractiveness, show their attitude or emphasize their personality. They have a wide variety to choose from. There are bindis of various sizes, colors, designs, materials and qualities. They come as simple color marks, or studded with beads and glittering stones.
Even those who use the bindi purely for decorative purposes, often notice its power of creating awareness on the here and now, on the preciousness of living.
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