 |
 |
 |
More on the Bindi:
The term bindi is derived from bindu, meaning a dot. It is usually a red dot made with vermilion or sindoor (finely powdered bright red mercuric sulphide). Considered a blessed symbol of Uma or Parvati,consort of Lord Shiva, a bindi signifies female energy (shakti) and is believed to protect women and their husbands. Traditionally it was a symbol of marriage, therefore the widows did not wear vermilion. Nowadays, however, it is more of a decorative accessory and is worn today by unmarried girls and women of other religions as well. No longer restricted in color or shape, bindis today are seen in many colors and designs and are manufactured with self-adhesives and felt.
The yellow top covering the doll's upper body is a short blouse or a choli. The blue skirt is called a lehenga or ghagra. The green wrap-around scarf is called a duppatta (aka orna, orni, etc.)
CONTINUE YOUR RESEARCH: The following list has been complied for continued study.t