As a photographer I am fortunate enough to photograph so many things I would never otherwise have the opportunity to witness. Last night was one of those nights! My very first Mehendi Celebration....eek! I'm sure I looked like a little kid, walking around with a goofy grin on my face, marveling at all the colors and beauty. I was soaking in the culture and taking pictures of everything in sight! It is safe to say, I was in photographer heaven.
I'll do my best to explain a Mehendi. It is a custom from India that celebrates an upcoming wedding. It is a day full of laughter, music, dance and every color of the rainbow.
The bride to be wears an elaborate gown and has help getting ready. She then waits patiently for her groom to arrive...
While she is getting ready, family and friends are preparing the celebration location with handmade foods, beautiful henna platters and a seat of honor...
Once word comes that the groom has arrived, the bride is then escorted to her seat of honor...
The groom is then escorted to take his seat beside his bride...
There is a procession of loved ones who carry the ornate plates and place them at the bride and groom's feet.
Necklaces, bracelets and earrings are then placed on the happy couple. Shortly after family and friends are then encouraged to approach the seat of honor. Edible items are placed in leaf plates in the couple's palms and they are hand fed the bite size treats. This is the time for everyone to congratulate the couple and share a private moment with them...
All the while, women and children in traditional dresses, gather on blankets placed before the couple. During this time, songs are sung in celebration.
Once the ceremonial portion has ending, there is a dinner hour (with THE BEST lamb/ground hamburger kabobs I have ever eaten!!!!!) - much like a western wedding reception....
I enjoyed myself immensely and I absolutely cannot wait for Friday to come so I can celebrate Zahra and Tawseef's wedding day with them! I even ordered my very first Pakistani dress to wear and a Tunic for Dave. Don't worry, Zahra said it was perfectly acceptable and I want an excuse to look as vibrant and beautiful as all the women I met last night..... ;)
