In Jainism, Padmavati Mata is a revered Yakshini (female attendant deity) associated primarily with Parshvanatha, the 23rd Tirthankara. She is widely worshipped among Shwetambar and Digambar Jains, especially in regions like Rajasthan and Gujarat.

Kukum (Kumkum) in Padmavati Mata Worship: Kumkum (also spelled kukum) is a red powder used in Jain rituals, including the worship of Padmavati Mata. Devotees often apply kumkum on the forehead of the deity's idol or image as a mark of reverence. They may also place kumkum on their own foreheads after offering it to Padmavati Mata, seeking her blessings for protection and well-being.

Cultural Practices:

• During Padmavati Mata puja, kumkum is used along with other ritual items such as rice, flowers, coconut, and sweets.
• In some temples, devotees offer kumkum at the feet of Padmavati Mata's idol and then take some of it as prasad (blessed offering).
• Kumkum symbolizes auspiciousness and purity in Jain rituals, but its use is always non-violent and in accordance with Jain principles of ahimsa (non-violence).

Note: Jain worship and rituals, including the use of kumkum, are always performed with utmost respect to the principle of non-violence, ensuring that no harm is done to living beings in the preparation and use of ritual materials.

If you would like to know more about Padmavati Mata, her legends, or her role in Jain worship, please let me know!