Mehndi in Indian Marriages.

One of the most important pre-wedding ceremonies in an Indian marriage is the 'Mehendi'. Not only is it a fun pre-wedding ritual, but it also has deep-rooted cultural significance.

Why the Mehndi Ritual?

It has been a part of Indian rituals for a very long time. It is practised as a wedding custom throughout much of India as well as in the nearby nations of Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Nepal. Muslims also find mehendi to be highly popular. Islamic literature claims that Prophet Muhammad gave mehendi to the sick and used it to colour his beard. The mehendi ceremony is an essential pre-wedding practise as a result.

However, mehndi designs on the bride's hands and feet are considered a good omen.

Importance of Mehndi

Mehendi is a "shagun" because it symbolises the matrimonial connection. The gesture represents the couple's and their families' love and affection.

As far as I know, here are some beliefs related to Mehndi.

• The dark mehendi tint on a bride's hand symbolises the couple's profound love.
• The shade of the mehendi also represents the bride's and her mother-in-law's love and understanding.
• The longer the mehendi remains coloured, the more auspicious it is for the newlyweds.

Medicinal Advantages.

Mehendi, or henna, is known for its medicinal properties. It has a cooling effect that aids in soothing stress, headaches, and fevers. The mehendi herb is also very beneficial for the growth of nails. So, mehendi is applied to relieve the bride and groom of all the wedding stress. It also protects them from any viral diseases before the wedding.

Mehndi ceremony and some fun facts

The mehndi ceremony is a musical, cheerful ceremony that families enjoy. Fun Fact: The name or initials of the groom are also masked within the elaborate design of the bride's mehendi. In the bride's hands during the post-wedding rituals, the groom must locate his initials. The couple will have a great time playing this icebreaker game since it also promotes intimacy.

There are many more festivals that are associated with Mehndi, like Karva Chauth, Diwali, Teez, Mahashivratri, etc.

That's it. I hope you found this post worth reading. 

Thanks! Keep Smiling! 
Adarsh