Hands on

Beautician holds classes in henna design

The art of henna has existed for ages. Henna is a natural organic product that is used to create intricate ethnic and contemporary designs and exotic patterns on various parts of the body. To make an already beautiful art look more attractive and enable more people to learn it, is what Chandrika K. Khanchandani, owner, Radiant Beauty Salon, has in mind.

"It is all about expression. Henna application is one of the services my salon offers, but my main interest is to teach this art to people," says Khanchandani. Hence, she has flown in artists from India who not only specialise in applying henna but also have teaching experience.

Along with the traditional forms of applying henna, a variety of other styles are also taught in the class. Metallic blues, gold, copper and silver colours are used innovatively in her applications. Stones of varied colours and shapes are added in the patterns to enhance the look. "No more is henna limited to either the typical red or black," says Khanchandani.

"People can choose from one-day patterns created with sparkles or metallic colours that can be washed out or a mix of traditional and modern styles."

The programme offered by Radiant Beauty Salon is suitable for youngsters as well as adults. It introduces beginners to the art of applying henna through tradition, technique and design.

Specific henna designs are demonstrated and students are invited to draw their own patterns. Each student is guided individually into the actual application of henna.

Classes are held for three hours a week on an average and the salon supplies the reference books, design work and the necessary tools at minimum cost.

"A lot of people are keen to learn the art of applying henna, and it will always be my effort to teach them the latest techniques," promises Khanchandani. She is surprised to see that many children want to learn this art. "And the best part is that they learn faster than the adults."

Khanchandani is herself a certified beautician and has always had a special interest in henna. "Although I specialise in facials, it has always been my dream to have the latest henna designs available at my salon," says the enthusiastic entrepreneur.

"Nowadays henna has become a part of dressing up," points out Khanchandani, adding that the latest trend was to match the henna designs with the costume one wears.

"I do have people who go in for mixed patterns, too. Here the outline is made with the traditional red or black henna, and then the fillings are done with different colours. The colours can be washed out later, but the henna stays."