Streets and markets of Lucknow are now aglow with vibrant hues and smell delightful with the herbal scent of henna. Be it Gomti Nagar’s Patrakarpuram, Hazratganj’s Love Lane, Bhootnaath, or any of the other bustling markets in Lucknow.
While these popular streets already host a handful of talented mehendi artists year-round, the festival of Karwa Chauth provides an opportunity for more artists to occupy temporary spots in the markets. To give you a glimpse of the intricate skill of the mehendi artists of Lucknow and the vibrant city markets, we explored the streets of Lucknow. Here’s what we covered:
“A chance for us to earn while honing our skills”
Varsha Singh, a professional mehendi artist and beautician, has a permanent spot in front of Sahu Cinema Complex in Hazratganj. She specializes in various ehendi designs, including Rajasthani, Marwadi, Arabian, block designs and more.
Normally, she works in the evening, but during the festival season, she has been working throughout the day due to high demand. Varsha’s design rates start at a minimum of ₹200 for a basic Mehendi design and increase based on complexity, personalization and chosen styles.
In contrast, we encountered two artists, Priyanka and Shalu, who balance their studies with their trips to Lucknow during Karva Chauth to earn money through their artistic talents.
Shalu, an 18-year-old, completed her intermediate education last year. She explains, “We travel from Basti to Lucknow during festivals, seizing the opportunity to earn while honing our skills. We also take up assignments for weddings and events when they come our way.”
Shalu’s younger sister, Priyanka, aged 16, is still attending school. Both of these young artists aspire to pursue higher education in the field of arts.
A festival for both, the public and the artists
Many temporary artists, such as Priyanka and Shalu, travel a considerable distance from their homes with the intention of earning during the festival. The occasion not only brings increased demand but also allows them to charge slightly higher prices.
All in all, it creates a truly captivating scene in the markets. Alongside the multitude of mehendi artists, you’ll also experience the lively chahal pahal, the vibrancy of small sellers showcasing their Diwali decor, and so much more.
And then, it’s a common sight everywhere – women gathering in the bustling markets, getting their mehendi done, while their family members pitch in to help with all the festive shopping.
