In few parts of the Indian sub-continent, especially in West Bengal, women wear “Alta” or bright red colored liquid on her feet and palms. Alta is the old Bengali traditional dye that Bengali women wear to adorn themselves.

During prayer and Bengali wedding, a Hindu Bengali bride wears Alta that adds elegance to her look. Even in the post-wedding ritual, the bride enters her in-laws home by stepping into Alta (mixed with milk) and walks inside, leaving her foot-mark on a white cloth. This is a pretty unique and essential ceremony of the Hindu wedding. Because in Hindu culture, a newly wedded bride is considered as Laxmi.

In previous times, Alta was produced from betel leaf. The color red signifies fertility, purity, and prosperity. Eventually, some goddess, like Durga, Laxmi, Radha, and Kali idols are seen wearing red liquid dye in their feet.

Moreover, Indian classical dancers (Odissi, Bharatnatyam, Kathak, etc.) also are seen wearing this red dye while a dance performance.

Alta is quite adorning and simple to wear. You should wear this red dye to look like a traditional Hindu Bengali woman.

Feature Image Credit: Pinterest.