Names

• The red dot is named differently depending on the dialect and the region from which the person is from. It is traditionally worn in southern and southeastern Asia. Although "bindi" is one of the more common names for the red dot, it is also referred to as "tilaka" or "bottu."
  
  

Meaning

• The bindi is believed to be a sign of future prosperity and gives a woman a place within her family. The area between the eyebrows is chosen to wear a bindi because it is believed to be the center of wisdom where experience is gathered. It is also believed to be the place where the body's energy resides.
  
  The red dot used to be worn by men as well, but their use of the bindi has decreased over time. Today, women traditionally wear the bindi, but some holy men continue to wear the tilak or tikka mark in ceremonies and in everyday life. Although red is the traditional color, some prefer using other colors, and some women choose to match the dot with their sari.
  
  

Application

• The bindi is applied with vermilion powder. The application of the bindi is important and normally takes a skilled hand to apply so it is perfectly round. There are other methods of application, including items that are self-adhesive.
  
  

Composition

• The bindi is usually made of bovine blood and dirt, but some may wear a jewel instead. Bovine blood is often used because the cow is considered sacred in Hinduism. However, some people use alternate materials. A powder is used to make the tilaka and consists of red powder, yogurt and grains of rice.
  
  Jewels such as gemstones are used in place of the bovine blood and dirt. Self-adhesive bindis have also been created and are made of various colors, designs, sizes and materials, including glass beads and sequins.