In view of a deadly terrorist attack, it was claimed that 26 has to live life PahgamJammu and Kashmir – including a Nepali citizen – India started a decisive counter -protest in the early hours of Wednesday, 7 MayIndian armed forces did Exact wind attacks Against camps related to Terror outfits Such as Jaish-e-Mohammed (Gem) And Lashkar-e-Tiba (Late). Operation, coden ‘Operation Sindoor,’ The deep terrorist infrastructure within Pakistan and Pakistan occupied Kashmir (POK) was targeted, sending a strong message against terrorism across the border.
However, while the military aspect of Operation made headlines, Mission’s name-Operation vermilionCultural imagination of publicity. Why was it called? What does it do ‘Vermilion‘ Symbolise? And is it the same ‘Kumkum‘ let’s explore.
Sindoor and Kumkum: Holy powder with specific symbolism
Both vermilion and kumkum are red powder which prominently present in Hindu traditions. Often confused due to their similar appearance, both of them actually serve completely different cultural purposes.
What is vermilion?
Sindoor is traditionally worn by married Hindu women as a sign of their marital status. This applies with the farewell of hair (demand) and symbolizes commitment, husband’s longevity and social commitment in many communities. Its use begins with a wedding ceremony, when the groom first applies to the bride.
Color of vermilion – regional from bright red to orange and pink. It is usually designed with a snubbed (mercury sulfide) that is mixed in turmeric, lime, or some cases (although modern vermilion is made lead to security), it makes a powerful spiritual and emotional allegation in Indian homes.
What is Kumkum?
On the other hand, Kumkum is a ritual used during religious ceremonies and prayers. Unlike vermilion, Kumkum is not banned for married women – men, women, children, and even idols of gods are offered.
Made from turmeric and slacked lime, Kumkum turns a rich red and most often applied on the forehead between the eyebrows, which is known as Ajna Chakra, or the third eye. This region is considered to increase concentration and spiritual awareness. Kumkum is also used as decorative arts marking holy objects, giving respect to elders and festivals.
Main difference between sindoor and kumkum
| Speciality | Vermilion | Kumkum |
|---|---|---|
| Objective | Signs of marriage | Religious and spiritual use |
| Who uses it | Married only Hindu women | Men, women (married/unmarried), deity |
| Where it is applied | Bal Bidai (Mang) | Forehead |
| Material | Cinebar, turmeric, lime, sometimes lead | Turmeric and Sliced ​​Lime |
| Symbols | Marital status, husband’s longevity | Devotion, honor, third eye activation |
Where each must be used
Sindoor is strictly reserved Married woman And is applied during festivals like daily or Karva Chauth, Tees, and Sindoor Khel (last day of Durga Puja). Applying vermilion after marriage is considered auspicious and is a sign of commitment.
Kumkum has a broad formal use – it is used for the performance of tilak, during Pujas, and even to welcome guests. It can also be mixed with water to decorate hands or feet in artistic patterns during weddings or temple rituals.
What to do with vermilion or kumkum
Despite their similar appearance, interchangeing vermilion and kumkum is culturally inappropriate and is sometimes considered aggressive in traditional circles.
Vermilion Never be worn by unmarried women, and it is believed that it is shared among women.
KumkumWhile more flexible, should not be used as a casual cosmetic. It is pure and should be treated with reverence, not thrown or extended forward.
Why ‘Sindoor’ as a codename?
The selection of the word “vermilion” for such a high-profile military operation may seem surprising at first glance. But given its symbolic importance – as a mark of protection, longevity and marital power – the codename leads to a deep meaning. In many ways, the Indian strike was a symbolic claim to protect the nation’s sanctity, a lot of vermilion protects the sacred bond of marriage in Hinduism.
Operation Sindoor was not just a military mission – it was also a symbolic reminder of India’s resolution. And while the word “vermilion” is trending for its role in global headlines, it is important to understand its real cultural and spiritual meaning, especially unlike Kumkum, with which it is often confused.
(This article means only for your general information. Zee News does not pledge for its accuracy or credibility.)
