Tilak
A mark worn on the forehead in Hindu tradition, its shape often showing the wearer's tradition.
Also: tilaka, tika
A tilak is a mark of sandalwood paste, ash, kumkum, clay or turmeric, usually on the forehead, worn daily by some Hindus and by many at worship and festivals. Its form often shows tradition: Vaishnavas, devotees of Vishnu and Krishna, wear the vertical urdhva pundra; Shaivas, devotees of Shiva, wear the three horizontal lines of the tripundra; Shaktas often wear a red dot or line. A tilak is also applied to welcome guests and bless travellers.