Chhath Puja Orange Colored Sindoor Of Women From Forehead Down To The Nose – Story – Symbolism And Meaning

Chhath Puja, there is a special significance to married women wearing sindoor (vermillion). On this day, women apply orange-colored sindoor. It is usually seen as a long streak of sindhoor running from the forehead down to the nose. It is said that the longer the line of Sindhoor, the longer the husband’s lifespan. Here is a look at the symbolism and meaning of the orange-colored long sindhoor.

Many believe that a married woman’s sindoor line should be long so that everyone can see it. For this reason, during Chhath Puja, women who observe the fast apply sindoor from the top of the forehead down to the nose.

There is also a Hindu religious story behind this custom. It is said that once there was a settlement deep within a forest. There lived a young man named Birbhan, who was both a hunter and a warrior. A girl named Dhirmati lived on the outskirts of the village. One day, when Dhirmati was surrounded by wild animals, Birbhan saved her life. The two became enchanted with each other and began living together.

At that time, marriage as a formal institution was not practiced. In that forest lived a man named Kalu, who disapproved of Dhirmati and Birbhan living together.

One day Birbhan and Dhirmati went deep into the forest to hunt. Finding no prey, both became disappointed and thirsty. When Birbhan went to search for water, Dhirmati waited for him. Taking advantage of the moment, Kalu attacked Birbhan. Hearing Birbhan’s cries, Dhirmati rushed to him. Seeing him wounded, she picked up a sickle and hurled it at Kalu. Kalu, in turn, struck Dhirmati with a knife.

Dhirmati held Birbhan close to her chest. Praising his wife’s bravery, Birbhan placed his blood-soaked hand on her head.

It is said that sindoor, in imitation of that blood-mark, came to be regarded as a symbol of love, respect, and valor. Therefore, the practice of applying sindoor down to the nose during the Chhath festival is rooted in the desire for the husband’s longevity, prestige, and honor.