Henna or Mehndi

One tradition that I've learned about during this time has been henna or mehndi, in Hindi. This is something that Shiny has shared with me before I knew I would be going to India because it is just plain fun. Henna is an all natural dye made from a plant into a paste. It can stain the skin for up to a week. It's really something that can be done for fun anytime, but it is always done for Indian weddings. The henna is drawn in beautiful designs from the toes to the knees, and from the fingers to the elbows. Because you have to sit still for it to dry, the bride is honored by all the bridal party serving her throughout the preparations of the day. The more intricate the designs, the more beautiful the henna is considered to be. Wedding henna would look like this:

But, everyday designs would be much simpler and smaller.

Now, in the West, henna has also been associated with tattoos. I'm not sure why, except that it seems to be a common name for them. Henna really isn't a tattoo, as it isn't permanent and it isn't placed under the skin with a needle. In Indian culture, Henna would be similar to painting toe nails here. Girls get together for sleep overs and draw henna on each other for fun. You can also get henna done at shops, just like going to the salon for a manicure. It has no pagan association or significance. In Indian culture it's done just for fun and because it's pretty. Obviously, it's also something girls look forward to on their wedding, just like getting a wedding dress.

Shiny and I have asked friends and family to host henna parties for us, as a means to raise money. It's a fun way to experience the culture and get some friends together. We can also do just one-on-one, private henna. If you're interested in having a beautiful design done or hosting a party for us, please email either one of us: alexandracarmany@gmail.com or shinycorrao@gmail.com. We would love to do it. :)