Ceremonial Mehndi: India

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"Unity in diversity". Not just any phrase or quotation, these words are highly valued in a country like India that is incredibly rich in culture and heritage. (Joseph 1993:807) India has always been famous for its traditions and hospitality. The affection they put into their relationships and the joyfulness in celebrations, make the country stand out distinctively. (Joseph 1993:811) “It timely imbibes the qualities of various other cultures and comes out as a contemporary and acceptable tradition. That is what’s unique about the Indian culture...it moves on with the time.” (Bigart 1972:1180) Though times have changed, the lavishness has always been an important and essential part of Indian marriages. Mehndi or henna is a kind of paste that stains and dyes the skin from 1-3 weeks. It is designed on the palms of the women on special occasions like engagement or marriage festivities. (Radhakrishnan 1964:68) Mehndi as a ceremonial art form originated in ancient India and is still being practiced today. Festivals, music, literature, and art are just some of the many special customs India takes pride in and has for centuries. The Indian culture has never been rigid and that's why it's surviving with pride in the modern era. (Bigart 1972:1181) India is a country in South Asia. It is the seventh-largest country by geographical area and the second-most populated country with over 1.2 billion people. (Joseph 1993:807) The service sector makes up 54% of GDP, the agricultural sector 28%, and the industrial sector 18%. Major agricultural products include rice, wheat, oilseed, cotton, jute, tea, sugarcane, and potatoes. Major industries include textiles, telecommunications, chemicals, food processing, steel, transport equipment, cement, mining, petroleum, machinery, and software.” (Freidrick 1962:571-572) “India is a federation with a parliamentary system governed under the

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