In some regions, certain practices have indeed become known as part of the local culture over time. However, Islam does not determine the ruling of something merely based on how people view it today. Rather, it also considers its origin, religious significance, and how it is generally recognized in society.

For this reason, not everything that becomes part of a culture automatically becomes permissible in Islam.

Women are permitted to beautify themselves in ways that do not involve imitating the distinctive religious symbols or practices of non-Muslims. Therefore, wearing a bindi on the forehead for adornment is not permissible for Muslim women, because it is widely recognized as a distinctive symbol associated with Hindu women and their religious and cultural identity. For this reason, it should be avoided.

Saying, "Our people have changed its meaning," does not change the Islamic ruling. In Islamic law, the ruling is not based solely on a person's intention, but also on the general identity and recognition of that practice. If something is still widely recognized as a distinctive symbol of another religion, a Muslim should avoid adopting it.

The Prophet ﷺ said:

«"Whoever imitates a people is one of them."

(Sunan Abu Dawood)»

The scholars have explained that this hadith particularly refers to adopting the distinctive religious symbols and practices that identify another faith.

Likewise, if by "participating" you mean taking part in Hindu religious rituals such as puja, aarti, or religious festival ceremonies, then this is not permissible, because a Muslim is prohibited from participating in the religious rites of other religions. Allah says:

﴿وَتَعَاوَنُوا عَلَى الْبِرِّ وَالتَّقْوَىٰ وَلَا تَعَاوَنُوا عَلَى الْإِثْمِ وَالْعُدْوَانِ﴾

"Cooperate with one another in righteousness and piety, and do not cooperate in sin and transgression." (Surah Al-Ma'idah: 2)

At the same time, Islam teaches Muslims to treat non-Muslims with kindness, justice, good character, and to maintain family ties where applicable. Therefore, if an event is purely social or family-related and does not involve any religious ritual or belief, then its ruling is different and should be assessed according to its specific circumstances.

Finally, it is also important to clarify that if any particular story or incident is quoted to justify the permissibility of wearing a bindi, that narration is not established through any authentic hadith or reliable historical report. Therefore, it cannot be used as evidence to establish an Islamic ruling.

May Allah grant us the correct understanding of His religion, keep us steadfast upon the truth, and enable us to preserve our Islamic identity. Ameen.