Mehndi (Henna) Lunch: The Colours of Rajasthan
Date: Monday 8th April 2019
Time: Afternoon – TBC
Venue: Radisson Blu Plaza Bangkok (Sukhumvit Soi 27)
Theme: The colours of Rajasthan
Attire: Ethnic / Smart Casual – a colourful interpretation of the theme.
Mehndi or henna is an ancient form of body art, originating in India and across South Asia and the Middle East. A Mehndi party is the pre-wedding celebration in Sikh culture when the bride has the red-orange mehndi “stain” applied to her palms, back of the hands, and on her feet. This function isn’t just for the ladies – it’s also for the men to enjoy over food and drinks!
Mehndi isn’t just for style.
There’s a reason why this party occurs so close to the ceremony: Tradition says the deeper the colour of the bride’s mehndi, the happier the bride and groom’s marriage will be! Designs symbolize various blessings, luck, joy and love.
You can get mehndi applied if you wish
Guests can opt to have simple henna designs applied — this is less elaborate than the bride’s and is quick to dry!
Attire: The colours of Rajasthan – i.e. Keep the black outfit in your closet.
If you’re planning on getting mehndi applied, wear shorter sleeves so your hands are exposed. Also, leave the earth tones at home – don’t wear your favourite black or white outfit. Instead, go ALL OUT on the colours. For non-Indian guests who may not have a men’s kurta, sari or lehenga, mix and match as much colour as you can. Don’t forget to accessorise! In a nation that celebrates colour like no other, Rajasthan takes the spectrum of hues to extremes. The cities of blue, pink and gold are just the start of the ‘Land of Colours’. It is in this flamboyance that we hope to see you! Here are some images to inspire you:
Put on your dancing shoes.
Indian weddings are never without entertainment. There’ll be music, dancing and performances from the bride and groom’s friends and families. A DJ will also mix the tunes for those who wish to dance. Traditionally, this function is arranged to keep the bride ‘entertained’ whilst she applies henna. Come in a festive mood!
Don’t worry about a gift…
You’ll leave the Mehndi party with a gift yourself!