Its a mark of auspiciousness. It is put on forehead with sandle paste , or kumkum to activate the third eye chakra also.

According to some books, in ancient world, tilak was also done by soil mother nature. You might not aware of the curing and healing capabilities of soil. The application of soil to forehead signifies that it will pure the body and soul. Also , the tilak indicates straight spinal a symbol of good health.

The devotees of shiva apply ashes(bhasma) on the forehead.

The devotees of Vishnu apply sandal paste (chandan) on forehead

The devotes of devi or shakti apply kanku ( red turmeric powder)

A women without a tilak is assumed to be not merried in hindu customs.

Its the only grain, which is not split in two or more part when the shell is taken out. Which makes its a complete grain. Also, its a grain, which was available in all parts of ancient world.

 

A devout Hindu keeps a Shikha or Bodi which is known as Tiki in Eastern India. This is a little lock of hair which originates from Brahmatalu or the centre of the head wherefrom the fountain of aura light glow originates and where Brahmathe creator of the worldresides. These Shikhas are sometimes merely a tuft of hair slightly longer than the rest of the hair. In Southern India, the practice of keeping a Shikha by a devout Brahmin is widely in vogue. Generally, one can find Tamilian Brahmins shave off their hair except the Shikha. According to the Tantric school of thought this Shikha is regarded as the orifice of the spirit from where spirit enters at the time of initiation and leaves at the occurrence of death. It is commonly believed that before initiation one is as good as dead. This Bodi is the repository of spirit because all spiritual energy lies there. According to Vedic text 'Void is he if he is not covered and is clean shaved' because for him Shikhais the cover for protection. Thus a devout Hindu who sports the tuft or Shikha can face any eventuality in life in a composed manner.

WHY CAMPHOR OR KAPPOR IS USED?

Burning of camphor denotes that individual ego melts like the camphor and the jivatman becomes one with the supreme light of lights.

Continued......... Basics Of Hindus Part-2