Perhaps the most iconic pre-wedding custom, the Mehendi party is a riot of green and gold. A professional artist applies intricate henna designs on the bride’s hands and feet. The darker the stain, the legend goes, the stronger the love from the mother-in-law and the husband. This ritual is not just decorative; the cooling properties of henna are believed to calm the bride’s nervous system before the big day. The groom’s name is often hidden within the design—a playful game for the wedding night.

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After the vows, the groom applies Sindoor (vermilion powder) to the parting of the bride’s hair. He then ties the Mangalsutra —a necklace of black beads and gold—around her neck. Black beads are believed to ward off the evil eye. From this moment on, she is a Suhagan (a married woman). These are the visual markers of her marital status for the rest of her life.