Maṇgaḷ : name in Indian astronomy of the fourth major planet from the sun, revolving in an orbit outside that of the earth. From the earth, it is seen as bright vermillion in colour. Vermillion was for millenniums an auspicious colour in Bhāratavarsha which is the reason for its use in religious ceremonies, in the tīkā that devout Hindu married women used to apply to their forehead, & the male offspring named Maṇgaḷ & the female Maṇgaḷā. The name is also used for the Moon & Tuesday. [cf. Mars]
Share your feedback. Help us improve. Or ask a question.