Badri Nath Verma
New Delhi, 27 May (H.S.): Sindoor, a symbol of marital status for Hindu women, can transform into a powerful force when needed. This was vividly demonstrated by the recent events in Pahalgam, where an attempt to erase the sindoor of 26 women was met with severe repercussions, serving as a lesson for generations to come. Prime Minister Narendra Modi highlighted the importance of sindoor during 'Operation Sindoor' and received a warm reception from courageous women who supported the Indian Army in the 1971 war against Pakistan. These heroic women played a pivotal role in restoring the Bhuj airbase runway overnight, ensuring that the Indian Air Force could launch missions against Pakistan in less than 72 hours.
During his visit to Bhuj, Modi was honored by these brave women from Madhapra, who blessed him and expressed their joy over the success of Operation Sindoor. Among them were Kanbai Hirani (80), Shambai Khokhani (83), Lalbai Bhuriya (82), and Samu Bhanderi (75). They presented Modi with a sapling from the sindoor plant, symbolizing their pride and resilience. Modi accepted the sapling and promised to plant it at his residence, signifying its importance as a lasting token of strength, much like a banyan tree.
Sindoor is not merely a decorative item; it carries deep cultural significance in Hinduism. The process of creating sindoor involves using the seeds from a unique plant, known as the kumkum tree or camilia tree, scientifically classified as Malotus philippensis. This special species yields bright red fruits, which are transformed into sindoor in both powder and liquid forms. Though rare, the sindoor plant thrives in specific regions, notably in parts of Maharashtra, Gujarat, and Himachal Pradesh, while being more abundant in South America.
The narrative of sindoor is not only an illustration of a cultural adornment but also a tale of bravery, resilience, and the deep-rooted significance it holds for married women in Hindu society. The actions taken by the women of Madhapra and the recognition from PM Modi underline the intertwining of personal and national identities, with sindoor serving as a potent symbol of both.
This plant, known for producing a fruit from which vermilion is derived, is often referred to as the liquid lipstick tree. It can grow up to 20 to 25 feet tall. The natural vermilion is created by grinding the bright red seeds found within the tree's fruit. Neither the producers of this dye nor the women adorning themselves with it suffer any adverse effects. The kamila tree produces fruits that initially appear green but later ripen to a vibrant red. Inside these fruits, small grains of vermilion can be extracted and used as-is after grinding, without the need for additional substances. This natural dye is both pure and exceptionally beneficial for health, with no known side effects.
Vermilion's applications extend beyond mere decoration; it is commonly used for filling hair partings and coloring food red. Furthermore, it plays a role in various medicinal products. In commercial settings, vermilion is utilized to produce red ink, as a pigment in painting, and in the manufacture of soaps. The plant is indispensable wherever red dye is required. According to a study published in the African Journal of Biomedical Research, it possesses notable antibacterial and antifungal properties. Additionally, a review of its medicinal applications highlighted that the natural dye obtained from its seeds, known as bixin, is extensively used in the food, medicinal, cosmetic, and textile industries.
Different parts of the plant are employed to treat conditions such as diarrhea, fever, and skin infections. In contrast, artificial vermilion is synthesized by combining turmeric, lime, and mercury in precise proportions, whereas nature generously provides the natural vermilion. This signifies the importance of sustainably sourced natural products in comparison to synthetic alternatives.
Overall, the vermilion tree and its applications reflect a fascinating intersection of natural beauty and health benefits. The way it is utilized across various industries attests to its versatility and relevance in both traditional and modern contexts. The plant not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also contributes to health, making it an invaluable resource. As awareness of natural products grows, the demand for such sustainable options highlights the need to preserve these resources for future generations.
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Hindusthan Samachar / Jun Sarkar
