 North East India
Navratri, a festival celebrated with great reverence across India, is a beautiful confluence of rich traditions, spiritual significance, and joyous celebrations.
Over the course of nine nights, this festival honors Goddess Durga and her nine forms, the embodiment of divine feminine energy or Shakti, and marks her victory over evil forces. It is a time for reflection, devotion, and transformation. One of the most cherished customs during Navratri is the application of henna (mehndi). Henna is not only an artistic expression but also carries deep cultural significance across various regions of India. Whether it’s for the lively Garba and Dandiya dances, or as a simple yet meaningful gesture to invite good fortune, henna plays an important role in Navratri celebrations, particularly in states like Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Maharashtra. In this blog post, we’ll explore the fascinating ways in which henna intertwines with Navratri’s vibrant celebrations, and how the art form varies across different regions, each adding their unique flair and tradition to this joyous festival. Gujarat – The Soul of Garba and the Art of Henna
 Artist: Arti Pastagia (click photo)
Gujarat, the heartland of Garba and Dandiya Raas, comes alive with energy and color during Navratri. While dance and devotion are at the heart of the celebration, henna has become a cherished part of the larger observance, blending artistic expression with ancient tradition.
Historically, henna use in India dates back to at least 400 AD, with accounts of its presence in the Deccan region. Given Gujarat’s proximity to the Deccan and its role as a trade hub, henna naturally found its place in the region’s rich cultural tapestry, intertwining with Hindu festivities over time. A Celebration of Culture
Art, Dance, Theater- The Spirit of Navratri in Maharashtra
 Artist: Feinal Bardoliwala (click photo)
Navratri in Maharashtra is a time of deep devotion, vibrant celebrations, and cherished traditions that bring families and communities together in honor of the goddess. Among the many ways this festival is observed, Lavani and Gondhal stand out as two of the most meaningful and spiritually rich performances, blending music, dance, and storytelling into a heartfelt offering to the divine.
Lavani, with its rhythmic grace and powerful expressions, is more than just a dance—it is an invocation of the goddess’s energy. Though often associated with entertainment, its origins lie in devotional performances that celebrate the divine feminine. During Navratri, Lavani takes on a sacred essence, as dancers move with intensity and grace, embodying the strength and beauty of Shakti, the goddess’s cosmic force. Before these performances, it is common for women to adorn their hands with intricate henna designs, symbols of prosperity, love, and blessings. The scent of fresh henna lingers in the air as families gather, sharing stories of the goddess while preparing for the festivities. As the night deepens, another sacred tradition comes to life--Gondhal, a ritual that calls upon the power of Goddess Bhavani and other deities. Performed by the Gondhali community, this ancient practice is both a devotional act and a spiritual offering. In temples and homes, the rhythmic beats of the dholki and the resonating sound of the tuntuna fill the air, as performers sing tales of the goddess’s victories over evil. The ballads they sing are not just songs; they are stories passed down through generations, each word carrying the weight of devotion. As hands decorated with henna fold in prayer and offerings of flowers and sweets are made, the atmosphere is filled with a divine energy, a reminder that Navratri is as much about inner reflection as it is about joyous celebration. With each passing day, the festival unfolds like a beautifully woven tapestry—henna-stained hands preparing offerings, voices rising in song, and dancers moving in rhythmic devotion. Navratri in Maharashtra is not just an event; it is a sacred journey, where music, movement, and ritual come together to honor the goddess in all her forms. And as the festival reaches its climax on Vijayadashami, when prayers are answered and blessings are sought, the echoes of Lavani’s lively beats and Gondhal’s soulful chants remain, a reminder that devotion and celebration are forever intertwined in this land of faith and tradition. Rajasthan – Desert Traditions and Henna
 Artist: Unknown (click on pictures)
Navratri in Rajasthan is a celebration of devotion, tradition, and artistic expression, deeply rooted in the region’s royal heritage. Among the many customs observed during this festival, the art of henna is embraced as a beautiful addition to Rajasthan's ancient and cherished rituals, enhancing the festive traditions with its intricate designs and symbolic meanings.
Rajasthani mehndi designs are known for their intricate patterns, reflecting the grandeur of the desert state. More than mere adornment, these designs hold deep symbolic meaning, with motifs such as peacocks, lotus flowers, and elaborate jewelry patterns representing prosperity, grace, and divine blessings. As the sun sets over Rajasthan’s golden sands, the rhythmic beats of dhol and the echoes of folk songs fill the air. Women clad in vibrant lehengas, their henna-stained hands adorned with bangles, move gracefully in the mesmerizing swirl of Ghoomar, the traditional Rajasthani dance. Beyond its aesthetic appeal, henna is a sacred symbol of Navratri, believed to bring luck and positive energy. The practice of applying henna before the festival’s commencement is not just a beauty ritual but a spiritual act, aligning the wearer with the divine feminine power of Shakti. With each design, women honor the goddess, expressing their devotion through this ancient art form known as mehndi. As the nights of Navratri progress, temples glow with oil lamps, and voices rise in devotional songs, weaving a tapestry of faith and festivity. In Rajasthan, where tradition and celebration are inseparable, henna remains a loved part of the festival—a reminder that beauty, spirituality, and devotion are forever intertwined. And as the final night of Navratri gives way to Vijayadashami, marking the triumph of good over evil, the deep hues of henna serve as a lasting emblem of prayers offered, blessings received, and the enduring spirit of Rajasthan’s sacred celebrations. Henna as a Global Tradition
Though henna is widely used across South Asia, Middle east and Africa, its practice has spread globally, especially among the Indian diaspora. In regions like the United States, United Kingdom, and Canada, henna is applied by people of various cultures, not only during Navratri, but also for events like weddings, Diwali, and Eid. The popularity of mehndi has grown beyond cultural boundaries, and it is now seen as a form of self-expression and artistic celebration among Westerners. As henna continues to gain recognition worldwide for its auspiciousness—whether as a symbol of joy, creativity, or a connection to a broader cultural heritage—henna offers a unique way to add meaning and beauty to any special occasion. How do you envision incorporating this beautiful herb and art into your own celebrations? To learn more about our Henna services for your celebrations click here
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The Timeless Art of Henna: A Glimpse into Berber Culture and Its Unique Relationship with Animals3/26/2025 Hello, fellow henna lovers! As a henna artist, it’s always a pleasure to learn about the diverse ways different cultures embrace this beautiful plant, and the Berber people’s traditions are some of the most captivating.
The Berber People
The Berber people, or Amazigh, have inhabited North Africa for thousands of years, cultivating a rich cultural heritage shaped by their nomadic and semi-nomadic lifestyles. Their traditions seamlessly blend nature, art, and spirituality into everyday life. The nomadic nature of many Berber tribes, moving between the harsh desert and fertile lands, influenced their cultural evolution. This constant movement and adaptability allowed for the exchange of stories, rituals, and symbols—traditions passed down through generations - and among the most enduring of these symbols is the use of Henna.
Henna in Berber ancient traditions, culture and healthcare
Henna was an integral part of the Amazigh's everyday life, extending far beyond mere beautification. It was deeply embedded in their spiritual and medicinal practices, serving as a powerful tool for protection, healing, and purification. Henna was seen as a protective substance, believed to ward off the evil eye, heal wounds, and cleanse both the body and spirit. It was commonly applied during significant life events such as weddings and childbirth, but its use also extended to everyday protection. Intricate designs were drawn on the hands, feet, and even the body, symbolizing health, fertility, and good fortune. Henna was considered sacred, a natural dye believed to offer protection against evil spirits and the harsh elements of nature. Both men and women adorned themselves with elaborate henna designs, which served not only as a form of beautification but also as a spiritual safeguard. Henna’s significance among the Berber people went well beyond beauty and symbolism. Its therapeutic properties were highly valued for personal hygiene and healing. It was used to treat various skin conditions, such as:
Henna's continued presence in Berber culture highlights its timeless value in promoting health, well-being, and spiritual balance. What truly sets Berber henna apart, however, is its profound connection with nature—specifically, with the animals that were integral to their way of life. Henna and the Animal Kingdom in Berber Culture
Camels, essential to the nomadic way of life, were often decorated with henna on their hooves, faces, and the backs of their necks. This was not only a symbol of wealth and beauty but also a spiritual safeguard. Camels were regarded as noble creatures in Berber society, and henna was applied as a way to honor them and ensure their protection during long desert journeys. Additionally, henna’s natural antiseptic properties were believed to help prevent infections, particularly in the harsh conditions of the desert.
Horses, vital for transportation, trade, and warfare, were similarly adorned with henna. It was believed that decorating their coats, hooves, and faces protected them from evil spirits while bringing blessings of strength and endurance. Henna was also used to address minor skin irritations, cuts, or wounds on horses, as its natural properties helped soothe inflammation and promote healing. Goats, important livestock for the Berbers, were sometimes marked with henna, especially during festivals or rites of passage. The designs symbolized health and protection, ensuring the well-being of these valuable animals that provided milk, meat, and wool. Henna was used to treat minor skin conditions in goats, such as rashes or irritations, as it has antifungal and antibacterial properties that help prevent infections. Dogs, valued for their companionship and protection, were also decorated with henna. In Berber communities, henna was thought to ward off evil spirits and protect the dogs from harm. Additionally, henna was believed to help with ringworm, fleas, ticks, and other skin irritations, thanks to its natural healing properties. Applying henna to dogs was also a way to show affection and appreciation for the animal’s role within the family. Through these practices, henna’s role in Berber culture extended beyond human beauty and protection, highlighting the deep bond between the people and their animals. A Beautiful Fusion: Henna, Berber Traditions, and the Modern World
The Berber influences are evident in the bold, geometric patterns and organic designs that adorn hands, feet, and even animals. What’s most beautiful about henna is that it brings people together. Whether it's the intricate designs adorning a bride's hands, a camel's hooves, or a dog’s paws, henna speaks to the shared human experience of connection, celebration, and spirituality. As we continue to evolve, henna remains a timeless practice that honors both tradition and innovation. Until next time, may your hands be adorned with beautiful designs, and your heart full of ancient stories! Further Reading & ResourcesIf you’re curious to dive deeper into the history and significance of henna, here are some resources to explore: 1. Inked Bodies, Blank pages; A study of Amazigh Tattooing by Hannah Masouani 2. Henna: Uses of it in Middle East and North Africa by Dianne Humphrey-Newell 3. Moor: A Henna Atlas of Morrocco by Lisa Butterworth and Nick Tharpa Cartie Would you like to have some Berber Style henna? book an appointment here.
Lawsonia inermis, better known as henna, is widely celebrated for its role in temporary body art and as a beauty enhancer that nourishes, hydrates, and fortifies hair, nails, and skin. The vibrant dye produced by henna comes from the lawsone molecule, which originates from a complex of various compounds, including mannitol, tannic acid, mucilage, flavonoids, terpenoids, steroids, glycosides, gallic acid, and naphthoquinone.
Addtionally it is renowned for its wide-ranging pharmacological benefits, which include astringent, antibacterial, and antifungal properties. Henna offers protection against harmful UVA and UVB rays, and its calming effects further enhance its value in various therapeutic applications. These characteristics make it a sought-after ingredient in both therpeutic and cosmetic products. The following conditions are suitable for topical application and can be safely utilized at home, even when diluted with water.
I also urge everyone to take the initiative to conduct their own research. The articles provided below are a great starting point and can be shared with healthcare professionals to support an integrative approach to medicine. Scientific articles and Research articles
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AuthorHi, I'm Pooja! For the past 12 years, I've been a professional henna artist in Santa Fe and Taos, New Mexico. Henna is a meaningful part of my cultural heritage, and I’m passionate about sharing its beauty and artistry. Along with creating beautiful designs, I love educating others about the art of henna, its holistic benefits, and the growing research on its therapeutic uses, including for cancer and autoimmune conditions. |
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