Vengai Pottu

People of India used to apply Black color bindi / vengai pottu to newborn babies. Sometimes they will also apply the sirattai bindi to newly married couples and pregnant women. The purpose of applying this bindi is to protect babies from the evil eyes of surrounding peoples by removing negative vibration and energy.

This is a traditional practice to avoid Dhristi (Evil eyes). It is prepared from the resin of vijaysar (Vangai Paal). Vijaysar is also known as Pterocarpus marsupium, Malabar kino, or Indian kino tree. This resin has a pleasant smell and will not cause any allergies.

Black Bindi / vengai pottu is packed within half coconut shells. People used to wear bindi regularly from the naming ceremony. It can be easily removed when compared to modern kajal. The modern Kajal has high levels of lead content which is harmful to the baby. It will damage organs, the brain, and bone marrow. It is not advisable to use kajal for babies. Black liquid bindi will protect the eyes from the sunlight and prevent infections. It also cools down body temperature.

How to apply Sarattai pottu / Vengal Paal

• Use your finger and apply a dot of black bindi above one of your baby’s eyes, at the cheek, near the forehead, or on the baby’s foot.
• Apply a curve line over the eyebrow and use vengai pottu as an eyeliner for babies.