| 26. Marigold Baba Pashupatinath, Kathmandu, Nepal |
Although the forehead markings, or tilakas, are relatively uniform in relation to one's order, sect, and sub-sect, individual variations in both the tilaka and other body art are the norm, not an exception. This sadhu's vertically oriented tilaka that converges on the bridge of his nose shows him to be a Vaishnava, or follower of Vishnu, known as the Preserver in the Hindu pantheon of gods. The flower in his hair is completely of his own design! |