Applying henna and adorning bangles on chaand raat, the eve of Eidul Fitr, is a time-honoured tradition that brings joy, excitement and a sense of togetherness. The intricate patterns of mehndi, with their reddish-brown mark that deepens over time, create a mesmerising display on girls’ hands; while the delicate tinkling sounds of bangles as they are carefully slid onto wrists, add a touch of glamour and elegance to the festivities.

Beyond their aesthetic appeal, both henna and bangles hold cultural, emotional and social significance for women, making this tradition a cherished part of Eid celebrations.

The beauty of mehndi/henna lies not only in its aesthetic appeal, but also in the emotions and memories associated with it. For women, applying mehndi is not just about the beautiful end result, but also about the entire process as it becomes a time of joy, laughter and bonding with loved ones.

All female members of a household often gather around the mehndi artist, and eagerly watch as the beautiful and pretty complex designs take shape on the hands. Soon after application, women patiently wait for the mehndi to dry, blowing on their hands to speed up the process, and then carefully washing off the dried paste to reveal the beautiful patterns underneath.

The whole process and the time spent waiting for it to dry is full of love and laughter, with male members of the family cracking jokes on the girls. No doubt, this entire experience is filled with anticipation, excitement and a sense of togetherness.

Similarly, the process of adorning bangles on chaand raat is equally mesmerising. All women and young girls are so excited about wearing bangles that they often make last minute visit to the market to get bangles that match their outfits and personal style. Glass bangles, with their vibrant colours and delicate tinkling sounds, are particularly the most awaited experience during Eid celebrations. And most girls would agree with me that the beautiful shimmer and shine of the bangles in the festive lights makes the atmosphere magical.

Though women of every age love to wear bangles, it is the little girls who love the clinking sound of bangles as they move their hands excitedly soon after they wear them.

Apart from their aesthetic appeal, mehndi and bangles also hold sentimental as well as social value for females of all ages, sentimental as they are often associated with cherished memories and emotions. For instance, girls may recall the times when they were kids, watching their mothers or older sisters apply mehndi on their hands, or the excitement of choosing bangles for the first time.

Moreover, Mehndi and bangles are often shared among family and friends as a token of love so they hold a great social value among families and friends. Usually, girls apply mehndi on each other’s hands, or exchange bangles as a sign of friendship and companionship.

No doubt, the beauty of applying mehndi and adorning bangles on chaand raat goes beyond their aesthetic, social and sentimental appeal, they are a cherished part of a woman’s life, evoking emotions of joy, excitement, and connection with loved ones.

As all Muslim women across the globe, eagerly await chaand raat each year, the tradition of mehndi and bangles continues to hold a special place in their hearts, symbolising the rich cultural heritage and traditions of Eidul Fitr.

Published in Dawn, Young World, April 22nd, 2023