Editing Tattoo (section)

=== India ===
Tattooing in India has a long history, practiced by various tribes and communities. The art of tattooing was traditionally linked to cultural, social, and spiritual beliefs. In the northeastern states, such as Assam and Nagaland, tribal tattoos were symbolic of protection, rites of passage, and spiritual identity. The [[Gondi people|Gond people]] of central India and [[Warli]] tribe of Maharashtra also practiced tattooing, which represented their cultural heritage and connection to nature.

In [[Rajasthan]], tattoos were often considered to protect the wearer from evil spirits and bring good fortune. Among the [[Mising people|Mishing]] people of Assam, tattoos were seen as indicators of maturity and social standing. The tradition of tattooing evolved over time from a ritualistic and protective art form to an expression of personal identity and individuality.

[[Bind (caste)|Binds]] in [[Uttar Pradesh]] have used tattoos to signify the [[marital status]] of a woman, especially in remote rural areas. In the past, girls would get tattooed as soon as they started [[Menstrual cycle|menstruating]], which signaled to the family that it was time to begin searching for a [[Bridegroom|groom]].<ref>{{Cite web |last=Saika |first=Neha |date=July 19, 2023 |title=Tattooing as a gendered practice: Why only Bind women get inked |url=https://idronline.org/ground-up-stories/tattooing-as-a-gendered-practice-why-only-bind-women-get-inked/ |access-date=May 14, 2025 |website=India Development Review (IDR)}}</ref>

In contemporary India, tattooing has become mainstream, particularly in urban areas, with many tattoo artists gaining international recognition. Tattoos are now a popular means of expressing personal stories, beliefs, and artistic style.<ref name="tattoo_history1">{{Cite web |last=Sharma |first=Dristi |year=2021 |title=A link through the ink |url=https://www.indiatoday.in/interactive/immersive/contemporary-tattoo-culture-know-history-tattoo-types-and-other-details/ |access-date=2021-12-23 |website=India Today }}</ref>