India, a land of diverse customs and rich cultural heritage, celebrates weddings. According to Hindu beliefs, marriage is a bond that spans seven lifetimes, connecting two souls and two families. Indian weddings are a fusion of traditions, music, dance, and laughter, often spanning several days. One of the oldest and most cherished traditions is the application of Mehendi, known as the Bridal Mehendi Ceremony. This article will delve deep into the history, mythology, science, and significance of this splendid body art.
History And Mythology
Mehendi isn’t just an art form; it symbolizes the love between the couple and their families. The depth of the mehndi color is believed to represent the profound love between the bride and groom. The roots of Mehendi trace back to the Mughal era, around the 12th century AD, when it was introduced to India by the royal and wealthy. Artists and beauticians crafted mesmerizing patterns, making it a symbol of opulence.
Legend has it that even Goddess Parvati adorned herself with Mehendi during her wedding to Lord Shiva, initiating this tradition in Hindu weddings. Mehendi is an essential part of Solah Shringar, which prepares the bride for her new life, bringing luck and joy and even having aphrodisiac properties.
The Science Behind This Splendid Body Art
Traditions often have a scientific basis, and Mehendi is no exception. While it adorns hands with intricate designs, it’s also a potent medicinal herb. Hindu weddings involve extended periods of stress, which can lead to headaches and fevers. Mehendi acts as a coolant, soothing the body and preventing nervous tension. Small designs are also made on the groom’s hand, reaping similar benefits. With its antiseptic properties, Mehendi shields the couple from viral infections, contributing to their well-being before the wedding. Additionally, it promotes nail growth and calms nerves when applied to hands and feet.
The Tradition Of Mehendi Ceremony
The Mehendi ceremony takes place a day before the wedding, focusing on the emotional Shringhar and beautification of the bride and groom for their big day. While primarily for brides-to-be, a touch of mehndi on the groom’s hand is considered auspicious. This event is a joyous pre-wedding ritual, primarily driven by women, including the bridesmaids, friends, and relatives, all adorning their hands with this intricate body art.
Beliefs and Superstitions
The Mehendi ceremony carries several beliefs and superstitions. It’s common for brides to include hidden initials of the groom’s name on their palms. Legend has it that if the groom can’t find it, the bride will be more dominant in their married life. This playful act also serves as an excuse for the groom to touch the bride’s hand, symbolizing the initiation of their physical relationship. Another belief holds that if an unmarried girl receives Mehendi leaves from a bride, she’ll soon find a suitable match.
Astrological Connection
In astrology, the color red is associated with the planet Mars, representing both constructive and destructive energy. When handled with care, red signifies a desire and determination to succeed in married life. This explains why brides often wear red clothes, apply Mehendi and nail polish, and wear red bangles. It symbolizes the vigour and colourful nature of married life. Interestingly, Mehendi designs are also found in the hands of Gods and Goddesses, like Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi.
Mehendi-A Must In Festival Celebration
Mehendi is not limited to weddings; it’s a must on various significant occasions, festivals, and during Hindu fasts. Its importance extends to festivals such as Karwachauth, Raksha Bandhan, Teej, Diwali, and more. Even Muslims in India adorn their hands with Mehendi during Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha. Beyond festivals, Mehendi plays a crucial role in classical dance forms like Bharatnatyam. It’s believed that the colour of Mehendi reflects the love between the newlyweds and the bride’s relationship with her mother-in-law.
Significance Of Mehendi In Ayurveda
Derived from the Henna plant, Mehendi is significant in Ayurveda due to its therapeutic and medicinal properties. It’s renowned for lowering body temperature, soothing burning feet, alleviating hysteria, and improving nail lustre. Mehendi can even aid in treating conditions like jaundice and muscular rigidity. Additionally, it serves as a natural hair dye, imparting a beautiful color and a lustrous appearance.
FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)
Q: Why is Mehendi applied to the groom’s hand as well?
A: Mehendi is applied to the groom’s hand because it has soothing and cooling properties that can alleviate stress and nervousness, which are common before the wedding.
Q: What is the significance of hidden initials of the groom’s name in the bride’s Mehendi?
A: Finding the hidden initials in the bride’s Mehendi is considered a playful tradition. If the groom finds them, it’s believed to bring balance to their married life.
Q: Why is red color significant in astrology and Mehendi?
A: Red is associated with the planet Mars in astrology, symbolizing energy and vigor. In the context of Mehendi, red represents the colorful and vibrant nature of married life.
Q: Are Mehendi designs seen on Gods and Goddesses as well?
A: Yes, many Gods and Goddesses, such as Lord Ganesha and Goddess Lakshmi, are depicted with Mehendi designs on their hands, adding to their cultural and spiritual significance.
Q: Is Mehendi only associated with weddings or used on other occasions?
A: Mehendi is not limited to weddings; it’s integral to various festivals, fasts, and celebrations in Hindu and Muslim cultures.
Q: What medicinal properties of Mehendi are mentioned in Ayurveda?
A: Ayurveda recognizes Mehendi as a medicinal herb with properties that can lower body temperature, soothe burning feet, treat conditions like jaundice, and even enhance nail lustre.
Conclusion
The tradition of applying Mehendi in Indian weddings is far more than beautiful body art; it’s a cultural, historical, and scientific phenomenon. From its ancient roots in the Mughal era to its significance in Ayurveda, Mehendi is integral to Indian customs and rituals. It symbolizes love, tradition, and the vibrant essence of married life, making it a cherished part of every Indian wedding celebration.
