--similarity of a tilak symbol with lines on each side on forehead looks like a tuning fork—
description: The tilak symbol you are describing is most likely the Urdhva Pundra. Specifically, the Tenkalai denomination of the Sri Vaishnava tradition wears a Y-shaped tilak that strongly resembles the prongs and base of a tuning fork. Wikipedia +2 Key Characteristics and Symbolism The "Prongs": The two outer white vertical lines, often made from sacred clay called Thiruman, represent the lotus feet of Lord Vishnu. The "Base": In the Tenkalai style, these vertical lines intersect and extend slightly down the bridge of the nose, creating the "tuning fork" or Y-shape. The Central Line: A red or yellow vertical line in the middle, known as Sricharanam, represents Goddess Lakshmi. Spiritual Meaning: This combination symbolizes the devotee's total surrender (Saranagati) to the Divine. Wikipedia +3 Variations in Shape While many Vaishnava sects use a vertical "U" shape, the specific "tuning fork" look varies by lineage: Tenkalai (Sri Vaishnava): Distinctive Y-shape with a base extending onto the nose. Vadakalai (Sri Vaishnava): A more rounded U-shape that sits on the forehead without the extended nose base. Gaudiya Vaishnava: Includes two vertical lines that connect at the bottom, often with a small leaf-like shape (representing Tulsi) at the base near the nose. Wikipedia +3 Would you like to see visual examples of the different sectarian marks to identify a specific one? --do they mention frequency or vibrations in their worship of these deities— While the "tuning fork" shape of the Tenkalai tilak is primarily a symbolic representation of the lotus feet of Lord Vishnu , the concept of sound vibration and frequency is absolutely central to the worship of these deities. Wisdom Library +3 In the Vaishnava tradition, the universe itself is believed to have originated from a primordial sound vibration known as Shabda Brahman. Here is how vibrations and frequencies are used in their worship: Wikipedia +1 Mantras as Sound Frequencies: Worship involves the rhythmic chanting of Sanskrit ma…