MEHANDI - BILLAVA MARRIAGE
On Mehandi night, both bride and bride grooms are adding glitter and in some cases sequins and rhinestone to their henna designs.Before placing ready made designs mehandi, all family members put mehandi on his/her hands by placing Betel Leaf (the leaf will be removed and put ready made mehandi).
Mehandi is an essential part of Billava marriage ceremonies, particularly in Karnataka and Kerala.
Mehandi Ceremony:
1. Date: Usually a day or two before the wedding.
2. Purpose: To adorn the bride's hands and feet with intricate henna designs.
3. Significance: Symbolizes good luck, prosperity, and beauty.
Billava Mehandi Designs:
1. Traditional designs: Intricate patterns, floral motifs, and geometric shapes.
2. Specific designs: Billava community-specific designs, such as the "Nelli" design.
3. Application: Applied by a professional mehndi artist or family members.
Rituals and Customs:
1. Mehandi application: Accompanied by traditional songs and music.
2. Bride's preparation: Bride's hands and feet are cleaned and prepared.
3. Mehandi paste: Made from henna leaves, turmeric, and other natural ingredients.
4. Design completion: Completed designs are admired and appreciated.
Importance in Billava Marriage:
1. Beauty and elegance: Enhances the bride's beauty.
2. Cultural significance: Preserves traditional customs.
3. Family bonding: Involves family members and friends.
4. Good luck: Believed to bring good fortune.
Post-Mehandi Rituals:
1. Bride's isolation: Bride remains isolated until the wedding.
2. Groom's mehndi: Groom's hands are also adorned with mehndi.
3. Wedding preparations: Final preparations for the wedding.
Interesting Facts:
1. Mehandi is a must-have in Billava weddings.
2. Designs vary depending on the region and family traditions.
3. Mehandi is believed to have medicinal properties.
