Mehandi Design-Body Impressions Since Ages

Ajay Mehandi Art

Do you know that the use of Mehandi and its application by the women folk during the weddings and festivals was something that originated during the Vedic times? Ancient Vedic texts mention it. What makes it even more interesting is the fact that the rituals during those times were using this method of decorating the palms and feet and proves that the women were conscious of their decorations and beauty. However, application of Mehandi had an additional purpose. This purpose was more spiritual in nature. It was highly believed that the application of henna (Another Name for Mehandi) would be used for awakening of the inner self. It symbolized sun and was believed to exploit its power for soulful satisfaction. Thus, the motive was not only to enhance the beauty of women but also to attain spiritual well being.

During the Vedic times and even for a considerable time period in the modern world, the use of henna has been essentially by womenfolk. The men have begun to use it quite late in the modern times. Today, you would find Mehandi being made available in cones which can be used directly. The narrow slit opening of the cone on one side would permit the creation of many fine designs. The finesse is limited only by the expertise of The Mehandi Artists. These artists are found in every city and village of this country. While in the cities, there are experts who are good only in this work, in villages, it could even be the ladies at home who can create the designs. There is no doubt that this art is quite popular and more so during the times of weddings and festivals. In big cities such as Delhi, the artists can be found at the market places which are abuzz with people during these times. You can even see that Mehandi designers in Delhi are seated in a row with ladies in front, stretching out their palms for creation of wonderful designs. These experts are also called in homes and all the household ladies can get the henna applied. In villages it is not always possible to have these artists at the marketplace due to conservatism. Either they are called in the households or it is the home ladies who themselves act as artists. The ones who are able to create better designs than the others are always in high demand. 

While this art was limited to Hindu women in the Vedic times, this art has been extremely popular in the whole subcontinent as well as in the foreign lands. The role of cinema and the expatriate Indians has been crucial in spreading this art in foreign lands. Now this art is not limited to Hindus and to women folk only. Both men and women, and from other religions have embraced it.