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Hindus World Over Hail Julia Roberts for Sporting "Bindi" During Her India Trip

Hindus world over have hailed Hollywood actress Julia Roberts for honoring the traditions of India by sporting "bindi" on her forehead during her recent trip to India.

Acclaimed Hindu statesman Rajan Zed, in a statement in Nevada (USA) today, offered support if Roberts needed any help in having comprehensive knowledge of Hinduism, the oldest and third largest religion of the world with about one billion adherents and a rich philosophical thought. He or other Hindu leaders would be glad to share their knowledge, Zed added.

Rajan Zed, who is the president of Universal Society of Hinduism, stressed that since Hollywood had worldwide reach, Hollywood bigwigs should become familiar with at least basics of world religions to understand the feelings of their audiences better.

Various international celebrities like Madonna, Gwen Stefani, Nina Hagen, Shania Twain, Shakira, Nelly Furtado, Britney Spears, etc., have also been reportedly spotted wearing bindis in the past.

Traditionally, "bindi" is a small round mark of vermillion applied in the middle of the forehead close to the eyebrows. Besides decoration, bindi is said to be symbolizing auspiciousness and good fortune; strengthening concentration and retaining energy; protecting against bad luck and demons; etc.

Forty year old Julia Fiona Roberts, one of the most successful Hollywood actresses besides a producer and fashion model, has won a best actress Oscar for "Erin Brokovich" and earned Oscar nominations for "Pretty Woman" and "Steel Magnolias". She has a production company called "Red Om Films", and 'Om" in Hinduism is the mystical syllable containing the universe, which is used to introduce and conclude religious work.