You must have come across Hindus wearing red kumkum over
bhasma on forehead. Similarly, there are Hindu devotees who wear red kumkum
over chandan (sandalwood paste). There is a symbolism associated with applying
bhasma, kumkum and chandan.
Bhasma – Red Kumkum on Forehead
Bhasma is associated with Lord Shiva.
Red Kumkum is associated with Goddess Shakti (Durga) and her
various manifestations.
Applying Bhasma first and then applying red kumkum dot
symbolically means the amalgamation of Shiva and Shakti – Shiva-Shakti-Samyogam.
Chandan – Red Kumkum Forehead
Chandan is associated with Lord Vishnu
Applying Chandan first and then applying red kumkum dot
symbolically means the amalgamation of Vishnu and Lakshmi – Vishnu-Lakshmi-Samyogam.
Bhasma-Chandan-Red Kumkum Forehead
Some Hindus first wear Bhasma, then chandan and then a red
kumkum dot. This is a highly powerful symbol. It indicates the presence of
Goddess Tripura Sundari.
Bhasma, Chandan and Kumkum should be worn on forehead early
morning after taking bath.
Bhasma should be applied from left to right. Chandan should
be applied on the middle of forehead. Kumkum should be applied between the
eyebrows in a small round shape.