Mehndi is the process and art of applying impermanent ink decorations on the body, particularly on hands and feet. Also known as henna tattoos, the mehndi designs are only done on women. These designs are more than just beautiful, but have specific meanings. The symbolism of the design elements are used to offer them as wishes to the wearer of the design.

This type of body art is most closely associated with Indian culture, which carried it to other Southeast Asian countries. In truth, the art also has its origins in Arab culture as well. Its exact birthplace is unknown. ‘Mehndi’ is a Sanskrit word, which indicates an Indian origin. However, its more popular name of ‘henna’ comes from the Arabic word for the plant the produces the ink (’hinna’).

An henna tattoo done in the Indian style will usually have a reddish-brown color. An Arabic design normally uses black ink. In both traditions, the depth of the ink’s color is believed to mirror the depth of the symbols’ representations. Henna tattoos play a large role in Indian weddings, where the intensity of the ink color is believed to reflect the quality of the relationship between bride and future mother-in-law.

A popular element used in mehndi designs are pictures of vegetation. Buds represent love and the beginning of new life. Floral and leafy patterns represent fertility. The vine pattern, which is usually done extending along fingers or the arm, is a symbol of love. The vine is also thought to be a shield against the evil eye.

Some of the more abstract decorations are elements like the paisley or mandala. The paisley, which will often appear on a palm or foot top, represents fertility, good luck, and love. A mandala, which is a sacred circle with gates and a part of the Hindu tradition, is believed to offer wisdom and spiritual enlightenment.

A more intricate design might include a picture of a Hindu god. This most often means a representation of Ganesh, the elephant god. He is the god of fresh starts, so he’s often seen as a welcoming figure. He also symbolizes good health and acts as protection against evil.

Brides have a special decorative element they might include in their mehndi designs. The artist will usually hide the groom’s initials or name somewhere in the highly intricate design. This is more than a symbolic gesture, but has romantic inspiration as well. The idea is that the groom will spend their wedding night searching for his name on his new wife’s body.

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Tags: Tattoos