Traditional and Trendy: About Mendhi

by Farah Mithani – Houston Baptist University

From Pharaohs to Madonna, mehndi has been a form of expressive and cultural art.  Differing from each region, it has been around for years.  Made from a tall shrub called a henna plant, it is used to dye skin, hair, and possibility certain materials.

The most common use and tradition is when an Indian or Pakistani bride is adorned with the rich color of henna on her hands and feet.  Every time I have been to a wedding, I always hear people saying, “The darker your mehndi is, the more your husband will love you.”  The best part about a wedding for me is that the bride’s mehndi is always the darkest out of everyone else.

The ritual of putting on mehndi is usually a pre-wedding ceremony.  The bride’s family will sing and dance to celebrate the auspicious occasion.  The bride’s mehndi is the most intricate, and hidden will be her future husband’s name.

Today, in the Western culture, it is called Henna Tattoo.  However, it is not a tattoo at all because there is no surgical insertion of pigmentation involved.  Since the 90’s, it has become a fashion statement for many, even Madonna.  But it will always remain a traditional treasure in the cultural aspect.

photographs by Farah Mithani