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Everything you wanted to know about Vibhuti

Vibuti, also commonly known as Tiruneer or Bhasmam is a a sacred ash that is used by Hindus, especially those that follow Shaivism. But generally speaking, the word Vibhuti refers to the great power or siddhis, and is used in the context of God. The adjective ‘Vibhatva’ in Sanskrit is used to describe the power that Nature possesses to create, maintain and even destroy the universe. And the aura that radiates from this kind of power is called vibhati.

Let’s focus on Vibhuti, that is a puja samagri and used by Hindus in their day to day lives. Tiruneer or Bhasmam is the ash obtained by burning cow dung along with sacred Indian herbs and is applied on the forehead and other parts of the upper body as a mark of surrender and devotion. Men apply vibhuti on their foreheads, between their eyebrows (ajna chakra), their throats (Vishuddhi Chakra), on their chest (Anahata Chakra), Solar Plexus (Swadishtana chakra) and the elbow and shoulder joints. Pure vibhuti is made only in goshalas from the dung of cows native to India. Dried cow dung cakes are layered in a pit along with paddy and hay by pundits chanting Sri Rudram and Chamakam, while at it. The fire is lit on the morning of Shivaratri.

As with most Indian festivals, folklore has it that Onam is a celebration of King Mahabali, a legendary ruler revered for his virtuous rule and generosity. The popular belief is that, during Onam King Mahabali visits his subjects, bringing prosperity and joy to the land. The festival serves as a grand welcome and an expression of gratitude to the beloved king.

Sometimes the ash or Bhasmam is infused with fragrant oils to make scented vibhuti. This type of vibhuti can be used during puja ceremonies and other religious rituals to create a pleasant and soothing atmosphere. People also use scented vibhutri to have a calming effect on the mind and body and to enhance the spiritual experience. Most common amongst fragrances used in vibhuti are sandalwood and javvadhu, which is a fine powder of sandalwood, sandal oil and other herbal extracts and vibhuti is also believed to have medicinal properties and healing powers.

Vibhuti is often used in combination with other sacred substances, such as sandalwood paste, turmeric and kumkum to create tilak on the forehead that are used to indicate the religious affiliation or the spiritual status of the practitioner.

Overall, vibhuti is an important Puja Samagri and is an important part of Hindu religious practices. It is believed to have many spiritual and healing properties. Whether it is scented vibhuti or plain vibhuti, this sacred ash is used to enhance the spiritual experience and to connect with the divine. Its fragrant properties and healing properties make it an essential part of many religious and alternative healing practices. Despite its humble origins, vibhuti is an important symbol of purity, devotion, and spiritual awakening in Hindu culture.