Tilak / Pottu: Why do we wear it?

A tilak is a sacred symbol of the universe in its natural form worn by Hindus on their foreheads. The tilak worn on the forehead represents a desire to become one with God. One of the most sensitive places of the human body is the center of the forehead, between the brows, which is said to contain a powerful Chakra. The tilak is applied to the body’s most vital chakra, the “Ajna Chakra.” one of the seven Chakras. Tilaks prevent negative energies from entering the body.

Every creation is viewed as a manifestation of the almighty lord by Hindus. The human body is also seen as a lord’s temple. Tilak is used to honor the divine power that resides within. Tilak application is a part of the Vedic ritual Nyasa, in which various regions of the body, especially the forehead, are touched with a mantra reciting in order to find the divine inside. As a result, tilak is used to worship and thank the Lord within us.

What do the various tilaks represent?

Sandalwood paste represents purity and harmony. Red tilaks represent bravery and courage. Yellow tilaks represent success and Mangala. Raksha tilak which is black in color is obtained after a Homa is done and worn on the forehead.

Why Tilak is applied between brows?

Tilak is placed between the brows on the forehead. It’s a colossal point of power. The Ajna chakra is the most important chakra (energy center) in our body. This place is the meeting point of three primary nadis:

• Ida (controls all mental functions),
• Pingla (controls all vital processes)
• Sushumna(awakens spiritual consciousness)

The Agya/Ajna Chakra (the third-eye chakra) is related to consciousness and alertness and is frequently awakened when one chooses to engage in spiritual practices. We focus on this chakra during meditation to promote focus and concentration. When tilak is applied to the mid-brow region, vibrations from the ‘third eye’ are transported to the heart, causing devotion and Bhaava(Spiritual emotion) in the mind throughout the day and imparting Shanti (serenity).

Our subconscious mind and various thought processes are represented by the third eye. It is the focal point of all cosmic energy. Through this chakra, negative energy in the form of negative thoughts enters our bodies. Tika is thought to prevent energy loss. When tilak is used, negative energy is prevented from entering the body. It also prevents positive energy from leaving the body. The tilak used in conjunction with some of the bhasmas protects us from radiation and shields the brain. It also serves as a reminder to the wearer that our bodies will eventually turn to ash.

The joint also contains a nerve (trigeminal) that, when compressed, clears sinuses by boosting blood flow to the nose. The pineal gland is stimulated by massaging this region with a tilak. The pineal gland is in charge of the body’s internal clock. This gland’s stimulation aids in the treatment of insomnia, stress, and anxiety. The nerves beneath are soothed by applying a Chandan (sandalwood) tilak to this area. It also helps in relieving headaches.

Refrences:

• https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Tilaka
• https://www.ritiriwaz.com/why-do-we-wear-tilak-pottu-on-the-forehead/
• https://114chakras.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/05/Nadis-and-The-Chakras.jpg