Pigments

Various pigments and fragrant woods are used in marking deities and individuals in the course of puja s. The marks made (and by extension the materials so used) are called sinha(n) (sinha: in Kathmandu Newari). Traditionally white and red pigments derived from fragrant white and red varieties of sandalwood were used, but now cheaper substitute pigments are often used. These are a saffron yellow pigment, mhasusinha(n) , and an orange pigment, bhuisinha(n) , used respectively as replacements for the white and red sandalwood pigments. A red powder derived from red sandalwood, called either Hyausinha(n) or Hikusinha(n) , is used as a cosmetic to be presented in a small box—along with such items as a comb, bracelet, a necklace, and mirror—to goddesses in certain puja s. The same red pigment was traditionally used as sinha (n) where bhuisinha(n) is now used. For Tantric puja s, monhi , a black pigment derived from lamp black, is also used.

Not only god images but also ten other pieces of equipment used in one or another puja are given sinha(n) markings. All objects so marked are considered as deities. Some of the pigment is taken back from the deities and placed on the heads of the officiants and worshipers as prasada . The white or yellow pigment is applied first, followed by orange or red pigment. Then three kernels of husked rice (jaki ) are placed on the worshiper's sinha(n) mark. The pigments and rice are given various exoteric and esoteric interpretations.

A vermilion pigment, abhir , is the pigment thrown during Holi festival in India, and in recent years on that occasion in Bhaktapur. Mixed with "popped" rice, tae(n) , it is given as an offering during joyful rites of passage, and is sprinkled on the heads and shoulders of the central participants in some processions and ceremonies.