As a predominantly Islamic nation, Pakistan traditions are characterized by occasions that follow the precepts prescribed in the Holy Quran. Although the wedding traditions have no direct link to Islam having been adopted from the Hindu culture, these occasions have been healthily blended with the Islamic life. Mehndi functions are part of the marriage ceremonies in the Pakistani culture. As in any other part of the world, the marriage function is designed to bring together the families of both the bride and groom. Most of the traditions involved in these ceremonies have been around for ages, with some dating as back as 1500 years ago.
The duration of a Pakistani wedding ceremony is about four days and involves several functions namely; Walima, Mehndi, Ubtan, Baraat, Mayun, and Dolki. Specifically, Mehndi functions in Pakistan take place two days to the major wedding ceremony. Traditionally, the groom and bride functions were held separately with guests from both sides presenting hennaand Mehndi to their hosts. Since there were different ceremonies in the past, the groom’s function was referred as “Tael” (oil) to signify the oil that was applied to his hair. This tag has since been removed because today’s function is composed of one ceremony.
All the same, the Mehndi functions in Pakistan have still maintained their allure with a lot of activities being featured. Both sides wear great Pakistan clothes, with the bride usually being adorned in a green or yellow dress. The celebrations are also marked with song and dance competitions between the bride and groom sides. Until recently, such activities were considered feminine but a lot has changed and men are more involved in the Mehndi functions.
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