Acceptance of this form by Westerners, especially celebrities is relatively new phenomenon
KARACHI: Whether it’s a wedding season or Eid celebrations, henna (Mehndi) is always a must and is an integral part of the South Asian wedding festivities. The art of applying henna is part of a heritage and traditional lifestyle stretching over centuries. Although Asian communities residing in the West have always practised the art of applying henna, the acceptance of this form by Westerners, especially celebrities, is a relatively new phenomenon. It is interesting to note that newness in henna art is finding its niche in Western societies where it has no traditional roots rather than in the countries of its origin where its existence is supported by several historical references. For people in the West it has quickly become an alternative to tattoos, for its painlessly application with strikingly beautiful patterns and designs.
Haniya Wasim
Published in The Express Tribune, July 26th, 2018.
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