Gurukrupa Kumkum

1. Why is Kumkum used in the worship of Deities ?

• Kumkum (Red powder) is prepared from turmeric. Since turmeric grows beneath the surface of the Earth, it contains vibrations of the Earth. When kumkum is offered to a Deity, these vibrations, along with the Deity's vibrations, are transmitted to the worshipper. This helps increase the worshipper's sattvikata (Spiritual purity).
• Offering kumkum during the worship of the Goddess signifies invoking Her Shakti (Divine Energy) and Chaitanya (Divine consciousness).
• Offering kumkum to a Deity is regarded as an expression of gratitude unto the Deity and a prayer for His/Her blessings.

2. Special characteristics of Gurukrupa Kumkum

• Gurukrupa Kumkum is prepared from pure natural ingredients (such as turmeric and lemon). Hence, it has a higher level of sattvikata. Consequently, it appears naturally red but not unnaturally bright red.
• When held between the fingertips, it feels slightly grainy, like fine semolina, which is an indication of its purity.
• Since this kumkum is pure, it does not leave stains when applied to the forehead or dissolved in water.

3. Benefits of Gurukrupa Kumkum

• The mind and the environment remain pleasant.
• It enhances concentration and enthusiasm.
• It helps awaken bhav (Spiritual emotion), and perform daily activities with enthusiasm.
• While applying kumkum, slight pressure is exerted on the Ajna-chakra (The sixth centre in the spiritual energy flow system, located in the mid-brow region in the subtle body), which can also help improve blood circulation.

4. How should Gurukrupa Kumkum be used ?

• While performing Abhishek or worshipping a Deity, kumkum should be offered with the ring finger.
• While applying a tilak (A vertical mark made on the forehead) or kumkum to the forehead or the Ajna-chakra, the ring finger should preferably be used, since it is traditionally believed to be directly connected with the heart and the nadis (Subtle energy channels).
• While performing Kumkumarchan (A ritual in which kumkum is offered to the Goddess), chant Her Name and offer kumkum pinch by pinch, beginning from Her Holy feet and proceeding up to Her head, or bathe the Goddess with kumkum. In some traditions, while performing Kumkumarchan, kumkum is offered only at the Holy feet of the Goddess.