Mehandi is for everyone, everyone is for Mehandi: Sona Mistry

Sona Mistry`s Mehandi

Mehandi, which is also commonly known as Henna, is a holy affair before the beginning of any auspicious occasion in Indian families since the fourth century. However, in the 21st century Mehandi as well as Mehandi Artists have evolved their art forms which have completely changed the meaning of Mehandi for many. A proficient Mehandi Artist, Sona Mistry quotes that, "For me Mehandi is not just a paste prepared with mixing henna powder and oils, it is a symbol of equality." She adds, "When I started my career 7 years ago, people used to get Mehandi only on their wedding or close relatives wedding but with time I have seen people getting Mehandi done for all auspicious occasion whether it be Mundan Ceremony or House Warming or venturing with a new business or any festivities. With this, the design has also evolved from a traditional design to contemporary figurative design." Mehandi has taken a great shift in the way people perceive it and has become of more importance in these recent years.

As the world has been moving towards progressive thinking, but still the thought about discrimination and differences prevails. SonaMistry quotes that "For God, everyone is equal, he does not discriminate or differentiate between anyone so who are we to discriminate between them." For her, Mehandi is for everyone irrespective of their background. She has collaborated with various NGOs across India in order to create her extraordinary designs on the palm of people for whom this is just a far-fetch dream. She adds that "When my artistic skills and Mehandi cones help me to create an impact in the society, it makes my inner-self satisfied and happy. When I see the zeal and spark in someone's eye while I create my art, I feel accomplished, I feel complete and that pushes me more to use my weapon (Mehandi cones) as the weapon to bring difference in-differencein society."

With Mehandi, Sona Mistry also wishes to break gender stereotypes. When she is on her Mehandi order, she makes sure that the men of the family too get the Mehandi done whether it be just the initials of the name or some modern design.

Have you ever thought about Mehandi more than just the mandatory traditional thing? Sona Mistry can surely make you think about Mehandi beyond that and make you fall in love with Mehandi with her contemporary and modern figures design.