Mehendi (Henna) is an ancient Indian Body Art. It is used in creating intricate ethnic or contemporary designs and exotic patterns on various parts of the body, though traditionally applied to the hands and feet of women preparing for special ceremonies. It is also used as a hair dye, a skin conditioner and as a reliever for rashes. It is completely natural, non-permanent, painless and without any side-effects.
It is also considered as one of the 16 ornaments (Solah Singar) of a Bride.The hands and feet are decorated with henna designs which are believed to have fertility qualities.Henna also symbolizes prosperity for the married couple.
Mehendi (Henna) also widely known as Henna is made from a form a bush called “Lawsonia Inermis” which is part of the loose strife family and is grown in the Sudan, Egypt, India, most of the North African counties, The Middle East and other hot and dry places. The lance- shaped leaves from the bush are harvested, dried and then crushed to make the henna powder. This powder is then mixed with tea, coffee, lime, water and eucalyptus oil to make a thick paste. It is usually applied with the use of a cone made of rolled plastic, much like a baker’s icing tube, and it is used much in the same way.
History of Mehendi (Henna) does not exist in a single volume, references and clues are scattered through various books on Art, History, Religion, Mythology and other subjects.
Proof has been found that Mehendi (Henna) was used to stain the fingers and toes of Egyptian Mummies over 5000 years ago when it was also used as a cosmetic and for its healing power.
Traditionally in India Mehendi (Henna) has been used for auspicious occasions such as Marriage & Religious Functions.
In India, it is considered as religious, good luck and bringing colors to life when a female applies Mehendi (Henna) on her hands and feet.
Diverse Tradition from different parts of the world and Artifacts has brought variations to Mehendi (Henna) Design.They can be classified as below