Henna - A Body Art from India
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Henna or Mehndi is an art form, which is widely in practice in India. It is applied on the body parts creating intricate patterns and designs. Henna or Mehndi, as it is locally called, is a derivative of a plant, Lawsonia inermis. This plant is mostly found in areas where the climate is hot and dry. In India, applying henna to the hands is considered auspicious, and women can be seen applying mehndi on their hands on festive occasions. No marriage takes place without the bride being adorned by traditional designs formed by mehndi.
Henna is also known for its healing and therapeutic effects. Since time immemorial, henna is being applied by women in their hair to enhance its quality and lustre. It acts as a great hair conditioner and is also considered good for the scalp. Henna is available in the market in powdered form. A paste is formed before it is applied to the hair or to the hands creating artistically rich designs. Though green in color, as the paste dries and is brushed of, it leaves behind an orange-red color.
Today, henna is being experimented with by the new generation. In addition to the traditional designs contemporary design making is also being resorted to. Henna being temporary in nature is preferred to by the youngsters over tattooing, which is sort of permanent and a painful process for some.