In Dharmic culture, the tilaka is a mark worn usually on the forehead at the most important chakra on the body called Ajna chakra, sometimes other parts of the body such as neck, hand, chest and arms.

What does the Tilaka symbolize?

Tilak, Sanskrit tilaka (“mark”), in Hinduism, a mark, generally made on the forehead, indicating a person's sectarian affiliation. The marks are made by hand or with a metal stamp, using ash from a sacrificial fire, sandalwood paste, turmeric, cow dung, clay, charcoal, or red lead.

Why do we put tika on forehead?

On the forehead, between the two eyebrows, is a spot that is considered as a major nerve point in human body since ancient times. Tika is believed to prevent the loss of “energy”, the red 'tika' between the eyebrows is said to retain energy in the human body and control the various levels of concentration.