# Mehndi and haldi

Source: https://www.marryloom.com/events/mehndi-and-haldi

Publisher: MarryLoom (https://www.marryloom.com)

Updated: 2026-11-05

Mehndi is the pre-wedding party where henna is painted on the bride’s hands and feet, and guests get some too. Haldi is a blessing in which turmeric paste is put on the couple. Both are relaxed daytime functions with music and food, and guests from abroad often enjoy them most. We can plan them together or as two functions.

These are the most easy-going functions of an Indian wedding. Expect bright colours and music, with snacks going round and a lot of laughing. In Kerala Muslim families the henna night is called mylanchi.

## At a glance

- Also called: Mehndi, haldi (Hindi), Mylanchi (Malayalam)
- Typical guests: 30–200
- Typical budget: ₹2–15 lakh
- We plan: Henna artists for the bride and guests, Haldi set-up with marigolds, Music and dhol drummers, Colour-coded dress guides for guests

## Questions

### Can guests who are not Indian join the mehndi?

Yes, and we’d encourage them to. The henna artists do small designs for guests all afternoon.

### What should guests wear to a haldi?

Yellow, or something light they don’t mind staining. Turmeric paste can mark fabric.