A cherished tradition
THE history and tradition of Indian bridal henna, also known as mehndi, can be traced back thousands of years. It is an integral part of some Indian weddings, and is considered auspicious and symbolic.
In ancient times, mehndi was used to adorn the hands and feet of brides as a form of beautification. Over time, it became a traditional art form with intricate designs and patterns.
The application of mehndi during weddings is believed to bring good luck, fertility and marital bliss to the couple.
The process involves grinding the henna leaves, creating a paste and applying it on the skin in various designs. The paste is then left to dry, and when it is removed, it leaves behind an orange-red stain that gradually darkens over a few days.
Indian bridal henna designs are known for their elaborate and intricate patterns, ranging from floral motifs to geometric shapes.
These designs often incorporate symbols and motifs representing love, prosperity and blessings for the couple. The bride’s hands and feet are usually fully covered with mehndi, and it is considered a sign of good fortune if the colour of the stain is dark and long-lasting.
Mehndi is also applied to the hands and feet of close relatives and friends in the pre-wedding rituals.
Mehndi parties are organised before the wedding, where the bride and her female friends and family members celebrate and have their hands adorned with henna.
Overall, Indian bridal henna holds deep cultural and traditional significance, adding beauty and auspiciousness to the wedding celebrations. It is a cherished tradition that continues to be an integral part of Indian weddings to this day.
Selina Sarobjeeth, 21, who works in logistics full-time as a freight forwarder (an agent in the logistics network), started as a henna artist while she was in high school. Today, she uses her art and passion as an extra source of income.
Sarobjeeth, from Phoenix, said she began her henna art business five years ago.
“I started while I was still at school. My passion for art and design drew me towards henna art. The therapeutic side of the application process and the beauty of the art was attractive to me.
“Hindu and Muslim weddings feature pre-wedding ceremonies involving henna/mehndi. In some cultures, a darker henna stain is symbolic of a deeper love connection between the couple. In the Hindu tradition, henna/ mehndi is part of the Solah Shringar, which is a beautification ritual for the bride,” she said.
Sarobjeeth said: “Bridal designs are more intricate, but it depends on the bride herself. She can go with a floral design or a more traditional henna design. Brides can choose their own design to match their outfit or the theme of her wedding. Most brides include elements they love, for example, peacocks, elephants and even a landmark where she met her husband.
“Regular henna is basically known as casual henna. It can be done for any celebratory event or function such as Diwali, Eid, bridal showers or birthday parties. It depends on the theme of the function. Henna designs can be adjusted
to the different occasion.”
Sarobjeeth’s design influences for henna art are Indian, Pakistani, Arabic, African, Moroccan and Western.
She said there were many steps to complete to ensure a dark stain was achieved, and time was a major factor.
“Bridal application can take from three to six hours to complete. It all depends on the design and the duration of the henna function.
“The bride gets her henna done first and thereafter the guests.
“Brides should have two artists during the henna night, one for her and another for the guests, especially if the bridal party is big. This saves time and the bridal party will be kept occupied.
“Henna/mehndi can be done two to three days prior to the wedding. The bride can split her henna application over two days, if she is having henna
done up to her knees and above her elbows.”
Sarobjeeth said stains from natural henna developed fully over 24 to 48 hours.
“When you first remove the paste, it will be bright orange. Brides need to follow an after-care process, which is always provided by the artist.
“It’s important for the bride to follow the necessary steps to reach the potential colour.
“There are different mehndi colours such as red, blue, green, pink and white, but for bridal henna it is compulsory to only choose natural henna.
“The colour of the mendhi will impact the longevity of the application on your hand. The various colours last up to two days.
“Brides can decide on the henna product they prefer. Natural henna has been used as a natural dye for decades. Allergic reactions from pure henna are rare and it is recommended for children and people with sensitive skin. Natural henna lasts up to two weeks, dependent on your skin type,” said Sarobjeeth.