Tattooing in India and amongst their Aborigines 1908

Title : Tattooing in India and amongst their Aborigines 1908  
Author : Not Stated
Source : Reliquary and Illustrated Archaeologist
Year Published : 1908
Page Count : 9
Image Count : 4
Word Count : 2,791
File Size in MB : 2.9
File Type : PDF

"There is, I believe, no mention of tatuing in any of the sacred books of India ; but there are vague legends as to its origin. It was the invention of the Third Age — the “ Dvapar,” as it is called. Generally speaking, it is used for ornamental purposes only,the female supposing that it adds to her charms ; but it also has a deeper or talismanic import, and certain designs are placed on the body, arms, legs, chest, or abdomen for specific reasons— to ward off the evil eye, or to bring good luck. Others again have a still deeper meaning, for in Chattisgargh, a district in the Central Provinces, the women tatu themselves in order that they may be recognised as such by men in the Great Hereafter ; and certain secret marks, put on the left arm and known only to their husbands, are supposed to indicate a means by which a man can recognise his earthly wife, should he wish to do so in the world to come. I have no doubt that this belief is universal amongst the Chumars and aboriginal tribes of that district. In a great majority of cases women only are tatued ..."