Overview
Vibhuti (Sanskrit: विभूति, vibhūti), also referred to as bhasma or tirunīru, is the sacred ash used in Hindu ritual practice, particularly within the Shaiva tradition. It is traditionally prepared from burnt dried wood, burnt cow dung and, in certain contexts, ash from cremation, and is employed in Agamic rituals.
Devotees of Shiva apply vibhuti to the forehead and other parts of the body. The most recognised form of application is the tripundra, three horizontal lines drawn across the forehead. According to the Shiva Purana, the individual particles of ash that cling to the skin when the tripundra is applied are themselves regarded as lingams.
The same scriptural tradition holds that bhasma purifies the soul and spiritually elevates the devotee of Shiva, and that ritual works performed without wearing bhasma are considered fruitless. The Shiva Purana describes various methods for the preparation and application of the ashes, along with specific mantras to be recited during application.