Kumkum

Puja Kumkum or kumkuma is a sacred red powder, primarily made from turmeric and lime. It is sometimes mixed with essential oils, creating its characteristic vibrant red color and fragrance.

It is offered to deities, especially Goddesses like Lakshmi, Durga, and Parvati, and used in rituals to enhance divine connection.

It is offered to guests as a sign of honor and divine welcome, and given to women as a blessing after temple visits.

It is applied as a dot on the forehead for focus, energy, and spiritual awareness, or on the hair parting (as sindoor) by married women.