I am American and wondered if there were other red substitutes for vermilion. I like the idea of using it for worship only. I understand that the red is for wishing the husband well and long life. Do I have to use vermilion? Or can I use anything red? Can it be a paper sticker? Cinnamon? A stain like from strawberries or beets?
I wanted to also say that I would ONLY wear a bindi in private home worship. I will look online for answers. I in no way want to hurt Indian people so would not wear a bindi in public. I thank you for all the past help from the ladies on this website. No need to answer the vermilion question. I may not wear a bindi but I might just keep some red substance on my puja platter.
Vermillion on the forehead, Lipstick on the lips — work differently. The mention of strawberry (jam? ) made me ROFLOL. It might end up working too well!!
I read an article that said that some people from India are sensitive about non-Indians wearing bindi. I would only wear it at my house in worship but I may not at all. I am trying to worship in the best way. Thank you for both of your comments.
India has enough people to allot some Indians to be sensitive about anything you can name. Theresa May just announced she plans to resign: some Indians are recalling the time she wore a bindi on her forehead. May resists pressure to relax visa rules for Indian migrants
Nope .not true. Some of my Indian friends don't wear bindi or thali. You can get kumkum in any Indian stores.