Which Finger Should be used to apply Tilak or Chandan in Hindu Religion?

Applying tilak or chandan or Bhasma (sacred ash) on forehead is a very important daily religious ritual in Hinduism. The ring finger should be used to apply tilak on forehead. The region below the ring finger is referred as Surya Kshetra or Surya Parvat. By using the ring finger a person brings a glow to the face – symbolically the energy of Surya. This makes the person ready for the particular day’s Karma.

Another belief is that by using ring finger, a person awakens the Agaya Chakra on the forehead and this helps in awakening intellect.

Thus by applying tilak on forehead early morning brightens the day and prepares a person to face it boldly and intellectually.