STORY LINE OF MEHNDI
From decorating brides’ hands, to being used as a temporary tattoo on arms and bellies (particularly abroad), mehndi/henna has gained international appeal. Thanks to stars like Madonna and Britney Spears, mehndi today is turning into a fashion statement for everyone, regardless of their age, gender or race.
The origin
The art of adorning women with henna is part of a heritage and traditional lifestyle stretching back several millennia. The ancient Egyptians used it as an embellishment as far back as 5,000 years ago, and there are many schools of thought suggesting that they introduced it to India in the last 3,000 years. The spread of its influence has continued through the centuries, with the use of mehndi now being common from northern Africa to Indonesia. Increasing emigration to Western countries has led to a rise in awareness — and alternate uses — formehndi worldwide.