Bindi, the "holy dot," traditionally worn on the forehead of Hindu women- is believed to protect women and their husbands. It symbolizes the opening of their spiritual third eye. In addition, it is also associated with Yoga and Aryuvedic principles. Since the most important chakra is considered to be the one between the eyebrows, the Bindi is thought to prevent the loss of energy there.

The term Bindi derived from Sanskrit bindu. It is usually a red dot made with vermilion. Bindi is a forehead decoration; it is also a slang term for the Mumbai/Bombay dialect of Hindi, or Bambaiya Hindi, or a plant (not to be confused with bhindi, another name for okra). Bindis, these days, are self-stick and are usually worn on the forehead, in between the eyebrows. Also commonly known as Bindiya / Kumkum / Tikki.

In the contemporary age the bindi has become a decorative item and is worn by unmarried as well as non-Hindu women, in India, Bangladesh and other countries of South Asia. Also, bindis are becoming popular with men concerned with their chakras. It is no longer restricted in colour or shape. Self-adhesive bindis made from felt in various designs and colours are now available.