A tilak or bindi is a small piece that completes the face of the deity. Jewelled tilak pieces add sparkle that lasts all day, unlike chandan or kumkum that fades.
Styles by deity
- Krishna, Ram ji and Vishnu forms: the Vaishnav tilak, a U or V shape (urdhva pundra) with a central mark. Jewelled versions copy this shape in gold and stones.
- Shiv ji: the tripundra, three horizontal lines across the forehead, often with a central dot. A Shiv ji tilak piece follows this shape. See our Shiv ji guide.
- Mata Rani, Radha Rani and Laxmi ji: a round or drop-shaped bindi, often red or maroon with a stone.
- Hanuman ji and Ganesh ji: usually a red tilak, sometimes with a jewelled centre.
Shop all styles in our tilak and bindi collection.
Choosing a small size
Tilak pieces must suit the forehead, which on Laddu Gopal and small idols is tiny. As a rule, the tilak should be no wider than the space between the eyebrows. When in doubt, choose the smaller size; a small tilak looks elegant, while a large one hides the face.
How to place it safely
- Many tilak pieces attach to the mukut or a forehead band (mathapatti). This is the safest option.
- For a standalone tilak, use a tiny dab of chandan paste or a small amount of soft wax behind it, which comes off easily.
- Avoid strong glue, which can damage the idol's finish.
- Remove the tilak during abhishek and replace it once the idol is dry.
Matching the look
Match the tilak's stones to the mukut and kundal. A red-stone tilak with a ruby mukut, or a pearl tilak with a pearl haar, gives a finished look. Our jewellery glossary explains other face pieces such as nath, besar and maangteeka.
Frequently asked questions
Is a jewelled tilak allowed instead of chandan?
Many families use both: chandan or kumkum on special days and a jewelled tilak for everyday shringaar. Follow your tradition.
Which tilak is right for Shiv ji?
The tripundra style, three horizontal lines, is traditional for Shiv ji.
Laddu Gopal Ji Set
Mukut
Haar
Choker
Kalangi
Bansi
