Henna tattoos

At weddings, festivals, and other special celebrations women in India have their hands covered in beautiful patterns with semi permanent henna dye.

Feet too

BUT, you don't need a special occasion!  On Saturday I went with some friends to a local salon and had my own hands dyed in the way of ancient traditions. 

the beginning

check out the cone she is squeezing to get the  paste (of ground henna) on my hands

We watched "Dancing with the Stars India" on TV while we henna-ed. 

DONE. Now about 30 minutes to dry.  And then we flake the paste off. 

final product!

LOVE IT!

I chose the simplest design offered. There were ones that went all the way to my elbows and covered every spot of skin in squiggles and dots. It was a little too intense for me. These tattoos should last 7-10 days, depending how much soap and water I use. The only downside that I have found is that often i glance at my palms quickly and think my hands are dirty. It's a little unnerving. 

Since we were being quite Indian we went to a sari store next door and tried on saris. I didn't get one, but I'm hoping I have a wedding or another special occasion to wear one before I leave.