Mehndi Designs – All About Mehndi Designs

Mehndi designs are one of the most popular wedding trends in India, Pakistan and other parts of South Asia. Most women these days, irrespective of their age, get their henna done for functions and weddings. The bridal henna designs are particularly famous for their elegance, the color and beautiful designs. These designs that mostly appear to be like reddish brown tattoos on hands, legs and back are carved using henna powder mixed with a pinch of water.

Origin of Mehndi Designs

The tradition of applying Henna or Mehndi dates long back in Indian history. It was brought to the country by the Moghuls who used to decorate their women with these beautiful designs. Those days, there were dedicated designers who used to create designs for queens and princesses. Gradually, it became a part of Indian culture with more and more women using it on a regular basis. Today, there are different designs depending on the state culture and family culture too.

How Is Mehndi Prepared?

It is obtained from the leaves of henna plant, which is crushed to produce the powder. The powder is then mixed with water, sometimes lemon, and converted into a paste. This paste is then applied to women's hands, legs, and even back in the form of artistic mehndi designs. Once it is applied, it takes nearly 12 hours for the hands to get tattooed and it typically lasts for nearly 1 week.

These can be broadly categorized into two categories - complex & intricate designs and simple designs. And it can be further divided into many types depending on the culture and state. However, the four most famous types of designs are:

1. Arabic mehndi designs for hand

2. Indian mehndi designs

3. African mehndi

4. Pakistani mehndi

While Arabic mehndi do not cover of the entire hands, African mehndi is the most complex type of design. Even though, it is rarely used in southern Asia, most women simply love the African mehndi.

Indian mehndi designs and Pakistani designs are perhaps the most widely used designs in the world. It is also believed in Southern Asia that, the darker the color gets, the more successful women would be in their married life.

Apart from applying the mehndi patterns for weddings and functions, women also apply them during festivals. There are high-end professional mehndi designers who make their living out of this profession.

Mehndi Designs Culture in India

The culture of applying henna in India is prevalent irrespective of the religion; whether the bride is a Muslim or a Hindu, a Christian or a Sikh, this practice exists for ages. But yes, the designs, day-by-day are getting more delicate, elegant and beautiful. There are several professional courses that circle around learning the art of mehndi among women.

Conclusion

The trend of using unique mehndi designs has now approached westerners too; with Indians spreading across the world, they are carrying this beautiful culture along with them. You can anytime get it done and enhance your bridal appearance.