Sacred Ash used in religious worship/markings in Hinduism. Vibhuti is typically placed on the forehead as it is considered sacred and holy. It serves as a reminder to the believer to cast away selfish and worldly desires that wrap the self in maya, meaning worldly illusions and distractions, and calls to mind the legend of how Shiva burned Kama (the god of desire) to ashes when Kama attempted to break Shiva's meditation.