Of the many colourful functions that are part of our big fat Indian weddings, the mehendi is undoubtedly one of the fun-nest! Generally a women-only event, your mehendi party is like a tamer more family friendly version of the bachelorette and every age group gets to be a part of the festivities. Different people from all over the country hold this pre-wedding ritual in varied ways keeping with their customs, however there is a common thread that runs through them all…they are all a fun, gala celebration.
Mehendi is used as a way to adorn the bride before her big day and the women in the family and close friends are all invited to do the same. Professional mehendi artists come prepped with gorgeous designs in a variety of styles and fragrant cones filled with henna.
The mehendi function is also one that’s filled with music; in many homes the elder women sing special wedding and mehendi songs and play the dholak, teasing the bride about her upcoming nuptials.
Mehendi ceremonies come in all packages, from small intimate gatherings at home to bigger functions at a hall or some outdoor venue. Whatever you decide to do, a few special touches will make your function an event that everyone can enjoy. If you have a wedding planner in India, find out about venues that are right for your gathering and recommendations for mehendi artists. The décor makes a big difference too. Even if you decide to have your mehendi at home, you can spruce up the space with bright cushions, flowers, curtains and wall hangings. Warm colors like henna green, yellow, red, orange always look great and are super festive. Plan your theme beforehand so that you can get small knick-knacks like decorative lights, bells, floating candles and colourful vases to match. Good lighting is a must whether at home or at a hall, you can have brighter lighting for areas where the mehendi is being applied and dimmer mood lighting in other areas. Since music is such a big part of Indian wedding festivities, make sure you have a good sound system and enough space to dance…no Indian wedding is complete without song and dance! Since most of the guests will have mehendi on their hands, try to serve plenty of finger foods and sweets instead of messier dishes.
The mehendi party is one that most women look forward to and even the women on the groom’s side sometimes have their own shindig. It not only signifies the beginning of a bride’s journey but is a great way for the bride and her busy entourage to let their hair down and relax with family and friends, while still doing something wedding-related.
