# Mehndi and haldi

Source: https://kalyanco.com/events/mehndi-and-haldi

Publisher: Kalyan Co (https://kalyanco.com)

Updated: 2026-09-24

Mehndi is the pre-wedding party where henna is painted on the bride’s hands and feet, and guests join in; haldi is a turmeric paste blessing for the couple. Both are relaxed daytime functions with music and food, and guests from abroad usually love them most. We plan both, together or separately.

These are the gentlest, most joyful functions of an Indian wedding: bright colours, music, snacks and lots of laughter. 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, Colour-coded dress guides for guests

## Questions

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

Yes, and they should. Henna artists paint small designs for guests throughout the afternoon.

### What should guests wear to a haldi?

Yellow or light colours they don’t mind staining; turmeric paste can mark fabric.