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Why should Girls have all the fun? Roll-On Alta for all!
Centuries have passed and still Alta remained the most cherished symbol of Indian culture and heritage. The vibrant red hue of alta reminds me of the auspiciousness of the feminine force that drives every life form while symbolizing fertility and productivity.
However, due to the effects of westernization and colonization, a slight stereotype came into existence. Most people started believing that alta is a women-centric formulation, as it symbolizes the feminine energy. Nevertheless, a little internet research revealed a completely different fact!
Without any further delay, let’s find out!
History of Alta
The common word ‘Alta’ was derived from the Sanskrit term “Lakshaya Rasa” which is actually a red dye that is supposed to be applied on the hands and feet during festivals and wedding ceremonies (TOI, 2024). The historical anecdote of its use has been traced back to between 1500 and 600 BCE with some of the major references found in the Vedas and Upanishads (TOI, 2024).
Traditionally, Alta has been symbolized with several feminine aspects like fertility, prosperity, and the divine energy that resides within every life form. It became a major part of classical Indian literature, reflecting traditions that went down the ages. For instance, the famous poet Kalidasa depicted Shakuntala adorned with alta in one of his epic plays “Abhijnana-Shakuntalam”, establishing Alta’s existence as an essential part of the Indian culture (TOI, 2024).
Traditionally, alta was formulated through the use of a wider range of natural ingredients like betel leaves, turmeric and kum kum alongside crushed lac resin (TOI, 2026). The use of natural ingredients supplied the cooling and grounding properties of the formulation while making it a daily wear essential alongside different festivities. Furthermore, it was observed that the use of natural ingredients while formulating an Alta helps in providing Ayurvedic cure, which was high in demand due to the lack of antibiotics and modern medicine (TOI, 2026).
Even today Indians have carefully preserved the culture of wearing the red dye on every occasion. However, most of the modern-day formulations are made with synthetic ingredients that often harm the skin region. Therefore, it has become a necessary consideration for choosing formulations that are made with natural ingredients.
Traditional Significance of Alta
- Weddings and Marital Rites: Alta has been used as an essential part of wedding ceremonies since times immemorial, while being embraced more than a cosmetic product all across India. Essentially brides across India create intricate patterns on their palms, soles and toes with the red dye as a gesture of beautifying themselves traditionally while transitioning to the new life (Makal, 2024). Furthermore, it is used as an integral part of the Bengali and Odia traditions where newlywed brides are made to step on a mixture of milk and alta and walk into homes as a sign of the Goddess Lakshmi’s blessings (Indian Express, 2026). With the belief of symbolizing marital bliss, fertility and the awakening of the divine feminine energy, these red dye formulations are embraced as a wedding essential and passed down generations as a tradition.
- Festivals and Religious Devotion: Married women in India are often seen applying alta on their feet during the Durga Puja, the biggest celebration of Bengalis. It has become part of the ritualistic dressing alongside the saree with the purpose of honoring the Goddess Durga (TOI, 2025). Moreover, Bengalis adorn this vibrant red dye in ‘Pohela Boisakh’ (the Bengali New Year) as a symbol of upholding pride in centuries-old Bengali aesthetic culture (TOI, 2024). Apart from the ritualistic applications, this vibrant red dye is commonly used by dancers performing classical dance forms like Bharatanatyam and Odissi. Its application is specifically integral for the dance forms, as it helps in making the hand and leg gestures more eye-catching (Kaipy and Gupta, 2025). So, the red dye is more than just a cosmetic product, used for generations to define individual devotion and classical dance forms.
- Celebration of Womanhood and Fertility: There are several festivals in India that celebrate womanhood and fertility in which alta plays the central character. One such festival is ‘Raja Parba’ which is celebrated in Odisha to honor the menstrual cycle of the earth, while these red dye formulations are incorporated as an essential part of the ritual (Das, 2025). This ritual actually celebrates the power of womanhood and fertility simultaneously. The red color of dye is believed to resemble the color of earth itself. So, wearing it during such festivals is a common practice and identifies the feminine source of energy, which is more than a personal adornment (TOI, 2026).
Modernization of Alta
With the passage of time, the age-old tradition of adorning altars has not changed, although the use of ingredients has evolved with rising commercialization and growing demand patterns. Moreover, an increasing need for travel-friendly, easy-to-apply and long-lasting formulations has caused beauty and wellness brands to slightly change some of the natural ingredients used in conventional formulations. Furthermore, there has been considerable evolution in the application.
Here are some of the most common changes that beauty and wellness brands brought about in alta:
- Roll-On Applicators: Brands have now introduced roll-on applicators and pens while packaging alta products as a means of enabling precise and mess-free application. The objective of introducing these types of packaging ideas was solely based on addressing the specific needs of dancers and working women who need to draw intricate patterns. The mess-free application assists in reducing spillage or even blotched applications. Therefore, the introduction of roll-on or pen application has been a major turnaround while modernizing the vibrant red dye products.
- Long-Lasting: Different modern-day formulations are made with thoughtfully selected ingredients that help the product to remain smudge-proof and water-resistant to a certain extent. This has helped in modernizing the vibrant traditional red dye formulations as brands promise long-lasting vibrant color that would not fade overnight.
- Skin-Friendly Composition: Modern-day skincare awareness has grown with drastic digitalization and internet literacy of the audience. It has led most beauty and cosmetic brands to start using natural and plant-based actives instead of synthetic ingredients. Today, businesses have moved away from harsh chemical dyes while adding moisturizing ingredients like aloe vera and non-toxic colorants that give the formulation its natural vibrant color.
- Digital Inspiration and Tutorials: The emergence and evolution of digitalization and an increased rate of internet penetration have made internet services available to a wider group of audiences. People feel more connected while using social media platforms, which in turn allow them to learn different emerging ideas and techniques of Alta applications, ingredients and the like on platforms like Pinterest, YouTube Guide and Instagram. The digital inspiration and tutorials have started shaping the needs of modern-day customers while making them aware of the multi-faceted benefits of trendy formulations, pulling their attention.
The Evolving Cultural Trend: Questioning Every Stereotype!
Debate and logic have been the cornerstone of Indian culture for centuries. The renowned and most revered Indian economist and philosopher Dr. Amartya Sen noted in his book “Tarkapriya Bharatiya” or “The Argumentative Indians” that Indians are debate lovers, relying on solid evidence rather than mysticism (Sen, 2005). While such a claim has already been made, it would be a real disgrace if anyone simply called out that only women can wear Alta and fell into the trap of age-old stereotypes.
It was noted that there is no solid evidence found from the scriptures like the Vedas or other Dharmasastras related to the use of alta by men. However, as per the ‘Lok achara’ or the regional customs, there have been traits found where men often applied similar vibrant formulations on their palms and feet, not as a symbol of feminine energy but as auspiciousness and ritual sanctity (News18, 2023). For instance, people in several regions of West Bengal, Odisha, some communities of Assam, Bihar, and southern India apply the vibrant red dye, believing it initiates a healthy start to anything holy (News18, 2023). These community-driven guidelines are strictly followed by the members of the communities while the men adorn themselves with the natural red dyes and similar formulations.
Men Who Broke The Stereotype!
There has been a recent headline that sparked a new wedding trend when the Telegu movie star Vijay Deverakonda wore alta on his hands and feet during his wedding ceremony to Rashmika Mandanna (TOI, 2026). Another famous trendsetter, worth mentioning in this regard, is the renowned classical sitarist Rishab Rikhiram Sharma. The popular sitarist is often seen wearing mehndi (henna) on his hands in almost every concert (Mary, 2024). As this trend went viral, men started embracing and valuing the cultural traits, adorning themselves with the red dye, while breaking the common stereotype that only women can wear alta.
Aromatic Roll-On Alta
Our skin-friendly organic roll-on alta is a modern take on the timeless Indian tradition, designed to add a vibrant red tint while caring for your feet. Enriched with floral colorants, hydrating humectants like Sodium Lactate and Propylene Glycol, and soothing floral extracts, it helps keep feet moisturized, smooth, and supple while supporting a healthy-looking skin barrier. The convenient roll-on applicator ensures precise, mess-free application, making it easy to carry and use for festivals, celebrations, weddings or everyday traditional adornment.
Conclusion: Wear Tradition Without Falling for Stereotypes!
Alta was never a cosmetic product in the first place, as it remained as a timeless reminder of India’s cultural heritage, spirituality, and tradition. However, with time, specifically due to rapid Westernization, a veil of disingenuous ignorance hangs over its use. People started believing that the formulation is associated with feminine energies like productivity and fertility, thereby aligning it with women, limiting the application to the female gender only.
However, the truth has been something different all along! As per certain regional customs, men proudly embraced the vibrant red dye on different occasions while calling it auspicious. With the evolution of the traditions with time, it is extremely important to distinguish facts from stereotypes.
Adorn the vibrant red dye with pride and ignore all stereotypes, no matter what gender you belong to, as it resonates with your culture!
References
Das, L., 2025. Raja Parba: An Odia Celebration That Bleeds Gracefully and Heals Silently. Medium. https://medium.com/@LisaDas2004/raja-parba-an-odia-celebration-that-bleeds-gracefully-and-heals-silently-f3077d9792db
Indian Express., 2026. The tradition behind the red alta on a Bengali bride’s feet that marks her journey to married life. Indian Express Indulge. https://www.indulgexpress.com/msociety/2026/Jun/24/the-tradition-behind-the-red-alta-on-a-bengali-brides-feet-that-marks-her-journey-to-married-life
Kaipy, S. and Gupta, C., 2025. The Neuroscientific Basis and Therapeutic Potential of Indian Classical Dance: A Review. https://hal.science/hal-05035654/document
Makal, A., 2024. A Comparative Study on Marriage Customs of Two Hindu Bengali Communities in Kolkata Metropolis of India. Antrocom: Online Journal of Anthropology, 20(1). https://www.researchgate.net/publication/381861409_A_Comparative_Study_on_Marriage_Customs_of_Two_Hindu_Bengali_Communities_in_Kolkata_Metropolis_of_India
Mary, S. B. V., 2024. Rishab Rikhiram Sharma’s ‘Sitar for Mental Health’ music series offers an immersive experience to the audience. The Hindu. https://www.thehindu.com/entertainment/music/rishab-rikhiram-sharma-on-a-multi-city-tour-in-india-with-his-sitar-for-mental-health-music-series-discusses-the-privileges-of-being-a-luthiers-son-and-explains-why-he-adorns-his-hands-with-mehendi/article67938385.ece
News18., 2023. Do You Know That Men Also Wear Mahavar? Know Its Significance And Correct Method To Apply. News18. https://www.news18.com/lifestyle/do-you-know-that-men-also-wear-mahavar-know-its-significance-and-correct-method-to-apply-7976131.html
Sen, A., 2005. THE ARGUMENTATIVE INDIAN. Internet Archive. https://ia803109.us.archive.org/17/items/TheArgumentativeIndian_201805/The%20Argumentative%20Indian.pdf
TOI., 2024. Alta: The story behind celebration of prosperity dipped in the hues of classic red. Times of India. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/fashion/style-guide/alta-the-story-behind-celebration-of-prosperity-dipped-in-the-hues-of-classic-red/articleshow/112346342.cms
TOI., 2025. 5 Alta designs for Durga Puja. Times of India. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/beauty/5-alta-designs-for-durga-puja/photostory/124004056.cms
TOI., 2026. Is Aalta only for brides? Why Vijay Deverakonda’s wedding aalta look redefined a tradition long associated with women. Times of India. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/beauty/is-aalta-only-for-brides-why-vijay-deverakondas-wedding-aalta-look-redefined-a-tradition-long-associated-with-women/photostory/128842296.cms
TOI., 2026. The surprising history of alta: Why Indian women paint their feet blood-red. Times of India. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/life-style/beauty/the-surprising-history-of-alta-why-indian-women-paint-their-feet-blood-red/photostory/131989360.cms
FAQs
1. Is it normal for men to wear alta?
Yes! It is quite normal for men to wear alta on their hands and feet. Alta formulations are mostly associated with women due to their vivid symbolism with feminine energy, productivity, and fertility. This mindset was brought about by westernization and colonization. However, with digitalization, men are often seen to apply alta while following different regional customs, as it is meant to be auspicious and purifying. In different parts of India like West Bengal, Bihar, Odisha, Assam and southern parts of India men still apply alta with the belief that it will invoke sanctity and help in preserving their cultural tradition. So, men wearing alata is a normal aspect, as there is no universal rule to resist or limit its use for men.
2. Why is alta always red in colour?
The color of alta is always red firstly, as it is made with natural ingredients and flower extracts that deliver the vibrant reddish hue tinge. Moreover, the formulations are mostly red because it is meant to symbolize auspiciousness, prosperity, fertility and divine power while associating with goddesses like Durga, Lakshmi etc. The color also resembles the color of soil while creating that earthy vibe while grounding the emotions, respectively. Therefore, the most available alta formulations around India and abroad are mostly the same red color, in its different shades, based on the formulation concentration.
3. How different is roll-on alta from the traditional alta formulations?
There are no major differences in the formulations between the roll-on alta and the traditional alta as both are formulated wit almost similar ingredients that are natural and ethically sourced. However, the major point of difference between roll-on alta and traditional alta lies in their respective packaging. The traditional formulations are packaged in conventional containers and a separate applicator is provided through which the alta can be applied on the toes and the palms. On the contrary, the modern-day roll-on alta is made with the purpose of converting the complete application and daily carry process of alta simpler and mess-free. The roll-on tip helps in ensuring precise application without needing an external applicator. Moreover, the roll-on containers are spill-proof, which helps in preventing the formulations from spilling, making them travel-friendly. So, this ingenious packaging idea has been the major point of difference between traditional alta and the modernized roll-on alta.
4. Can alta be used only during weddings?
Not at all! Alta formulations are widely used in different ceremonies, festivals and other ritualistic practices alongside wedding rituals in India. It has been observed that in several cultures like Bengali and Odia alta is adorned during festivities like Durga Puja, Pohela Boisakh etc., whereas it is often adorned by classical dancers while giving expressive performances. Most people believe alta as a representation of devotion, tradition and cultural identity. Therefore, it is inappropriate to bind alta-use to wedding ceremonies only in India as people, both men and women use it in different ritualistic practices.
5. What’s the longevity of roll-on alta?
The longevity of a roll-on alta depends on a variety of factors like the quality of the formulation, daily activities that are undertaken and the nature of skin exfoliation care that the user undergoes. Most modern-day roll-on alta formulations are smudge resistant and offer a long-lasting tinge of the vibrant red color. With specific water and sweat-resistant properties, the color stays for an extended period of time while comparing against traditional alta formulations. Therefore, modernized roll-on alta formulations generally offer long-lasting color coverage.
6. What to look for while picking a safe alta?
The concept of safe alta must start with safe and natural ingredients as it helps in preventing skin irritations, redness, dryness and inflammation. So, before picking a safe alta one must consider checking the ingredients in the back label. Avoid alta formulations that are rich in harsh chemicals and heavy metals, as they might lead to skin contamination while causing irritation and itchiness post-application. Most skincare and beauty professionals advise choosing alta formulations from reputable brands, as these brands consider using natural and skin-safe ingredients in their products while ensuring quality of the products, rather than relying on cheap and local alta brands.
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Posted on সেপ্টেম্বর 03 2026
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