The International Cultural Club met
recently to experience the Indian tradition of applying henna in
decorative patterns to hands and feet.
“Mendi”
or henna is a paste that is created with scented oil and the powdered
leaf of the henna plant. Besides lending color to the hands, mendi is a
powerful medicinal herb.
Henna holds cultural
significance in Indian traditions: it is used as ornamentation for
brides and women usually apply variations of henna designs on their
hands and feet.
The member and guests of the
International Club watched a video explaining the origin, tradition, and
application of several simple designs. Everyone was then encouraged to
create and apply their own design with the help of club board members.