One way or the other, you may have observed a not-so-long addition to the makeup of brides during wedding celebrations. It is some form of tattoo that is uniquely designed, which can be located on the bride’s arm and feet. You must have wondered about its origin and must have thought of its significance.
Though a usual supplement to the beauty of many Sierra Leonean brides, henna tattoos are majorly part of Indian traditional wedding celebrations.
HISTORY
Henna was used in ancient Mesopotamia and Egypt. However, there is not much information as to its initial incorporation into wedding traditions. Studies say that people from India, the Middle East, and Africa have used it for over 5,000 years. It was used to cool down the skin, mainly applied on the palms of the hands and feet. Since then, it has encompassed a form of ostentatious body art and ended with the intricate designs we now see at weddings. The designs may range from native or tribal sketches. Nevertheless, we must give credit to the Indians for popularizing the art of Henna at weddings. Furthermore, henna means fortune, prosperity, luck, color, vibrancy, new beginnings, and fun.
SYMBOLISM
Henna symbolizes positive spirits and good luck. The tattoos are believed to attract joy and blessings. Furthermore, henna enhances a bride’s look. It is a funny custom for brides to ask henna designers to cheekily conceal their prospective spouse’s initials in the design. Henna in wedding traditions is commonly popular in the Middle East and has also become popular in Sierra Leone.
