SINDOOR
In traditional hindu society sindoor/ kumkum is worn by married ladies as a symbol of saubhagya and longevity of their husbands.
kumkum, mangal sutra, black beads, toe rings (bichhua), bangles and nose ring form six symbols of saubhagya of married women.
The book Dharma Bindu quotes Veda Vyasa as follows:
Haridraamkumkumamchaiva sindhuram kajjalam tathaa,
Kurpaanakam cha taambolam mangalaabharanam shubham|
Kesha samskaara kabari kara karnaad bhushanam,
Bhartur aayushyamicchanti dooshayenna+
Pativrataa|
Praatah kaaletu yaa naari dadyaadarghyam vivasvate,
Sapta janmaani vaidhavyaam saa naari naiva pashyati|
Those women who are interested in the longevity of their husbands should not to ignore the high significance of turmeric powder, kumkuma, eyetex, vastra,+
jewellery like ear studs, bangles, necklaces etc. As at the early mornings, women offering Arghya or water for worshipping Surya Deva would avoid widowhood for seven births ahead!
So, scriptures definitely talk about the importance that Sindhoor or Kumkuma in hindu women lives.
Now where to wear it !
The practice is to wear it on the Seemanta or the parting of the hair.
The Lalita Sahsranama from Brahmanda Purana uses the words "Seemanta Sindhuri" which clearly indicates the exact place where one should wear the Sindoor.
Shruti seemanta Sindoori kruta paadaabja dhulikaa,
Sakalaagama Sandoha Shukti Samputa Mouktikaa.
The particles of your Lotus feet tuns red as Sinduri which adorns the foreheads of virtuous women.
Seemanta is nothing but the parting-line of a woman’s hair or maang in hindi.
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