Henna, an ancient art, is used to create intricate, ephemeral that are applied to the skin with a thick paste made from the ground leaves of the henna plant. The usage of henna as a for decorating body part prevails throughout India, for thousands of years. More than just attractive designs, the use of mehndi is intimately connected to the tradition and culture of India.

The rich hues from henna plant have graced the hands, feet and hair of the men and the women with diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds. No Indian wedding is ever complete without the henna. Whichever part of the country the bride may be from, her hands are adorned with the lovely red hue of the henna. But mehndi is not exclusive to weddings, in fact, it is used on numerous occasions, like Holi, Diwali, Rakshabandhan, Teej and Nagpanchami.

Intricate Designs
The designs originate from the practices followed on these occasions and represent specific objects, dresses, floral designs, leaves, flowers and birds associated with the festival. The neatness and variety of henna hand designs make it more beautiful. The mehndi designs from India vary tremendously.

Full palm henna, fingertips and endless combinations of lacy rhythmical design work prevail, along with the integration of pictures depicting paislies, bride and groom, hearts and sacred urns. Some other examples of popular traditional images used in henna mehndi designs are the peacock, the lotus flower and an elephant with a raised trunk, which is a symbol of good luck.