The Position of Women in Hindu Civilisation, from Prehistoric Times to the Present Day c15.s2.16

c15.s2.16

Ointments were used not only for the eyes but also for the lips and teeth¹. Sandal paste and saffron powder were used for the face and the breasts. Different types of dyes and ointments were used for decorating hands, feet, fingers and toes. A streak of Sindhūra on the head or a circular mark of Kumkuma on the forehead was made by maidens and women in coverture. This was regarded as an indispensable sign of *saubhāgya* or married bliss. Inscriptions often describe how valorous kings used to kill their opponents and deprive their wives of the use of Sindhūra¹. Women were leading a simple ascetic life during their widowhood. The use of ornaments or embroidered clothes was therefore out of question for them. While describing the achievements of their heroes, the authors of inscriptions often state how the bracelets of the wives of their enemies dropped off along with their neckalces.