1. Colored powder: This is the most common meaning of "gulaal". It refers to the brightly colored powder used in the Hindu festival of Holi. This powder is made from various natural ingredients like flowers, herbs, and spices. It is thrown on people and used to mark their faces during Holi celebrations.
2. Red sandalwood powder: Gulaal can also refer specifically to red sandalwood powder, which is used for its distinctive red color and aroma. It is often used in religious ceremonies and traditional medicine.
3. A fragrant oil: Gulaal can also be a fragrant oil extracted from the sandalwood tree, used in perfumes and incense.
4. A musical instrument: In some regions of India, "Gulaal" is the name for a type of wind instrument.
5. A film: There is also a Bollywood film titled "Gulaal" (2009) which explores themes of power, politics, and social justice.
Therefore, the exact meaning of "gulaal" depends on the context in which it is used.