Tilak and chandan: the basics

Wearing a tilak on the forehead is a custom in many streams of Hindu practice. Vaishnavas usually draw two upright lines. Shaiva tilak is usually made of horizontal lines, with sacred ash.

What it is made of

In Braj you will mostly see two things. One is chandan, a paste made by rubbing sandalwood on a stone; it is cooling and fragrant. The other is gopi-chandan, a pale clay that the tradition calls the clay of the gopis.

How it is applied

Many people use the ring finger to apply chandan. It is customary to remember God’s name while putting it on. Devotees say it is a reminder that the body is a temple.

A few cautions

• If your skin is sensitive, try a small spot first.
• Choose real sandalwood or clay rather than coloured or chemical powders.
• Be careful near the eyes, especially for children.