For South Asians, weddings are more than milestone events — they are kaleidoscopic celebrations of culture, connection, and legacy. At the heart of these festivities lies one of the most iconic rituals: bridal mehndi. Rich in symbolism and personal meaning, it’s an art form that captures the essence of the bride’s story in intricate, henna-stained patterns. And for London-based artist Niyanta Shah, it’s more than just tradition — it’s a calling.
Niyanta didn’t always work in the creative space. For nearly two decades, she built a successful career in the corporate world. But something was missing. The allure of a high-powered role and glittering office buildings was eventually overshadowed by a quiet yearning — to create, to connect, and to find joy in something more soulful. A turning point came during a deeply personal chapter of her life: her sister was diagnosed with a brain tumour, and shortly after, she lost two beloved aunts.
“That period made me stop and question everything,” she reflects. “I realised I was chasing expectations, not fulfillment. I needed to make a change — something that felt aligned with who I truly was.”
That change became Mehndi by Niyanta — a brand built on trust, care, and extraordinary attention to detail. Blending the polish of her corporate background with her lifelong love for art, Niyanta carved out a niche for bespoke, meaningful mehndi designs that resonate as deeply as wedding vows.
Bridal Stories in Every Stroke
Each of Niyanta’s designs is a celebration of individuality. She draws inspiration from classic South Asian motifs — florals, mandalas, birds — but always weaves in personal touches that tell the bride’s unique story. From the embroidery on a lehenga to the skyline of a city where the couple fell in love, her work reflects moments that matter.
“I want every bride to look at her mehndi and feel seen,” she says. “It should feel like an extension of her story — not just beautiful for Instagram, but meaningful for her soul.”
Some requests are tender and touching. One bride, originally from Atlanta, wanted to honour her transatlantic love story by having the Atlanta skyline on one arm and the London skyline — complete with the London Eye and Big Ben — on the other. Her father couldn’t attend the wedding due to illness, so Niyanta subtly included his initials in the design.
“That one stayed with me,” she admits. “It was emotional. It reminded me why this work matters — it’s about love, memory, and connection.”
Others are playful and charming. A bride once asked for discreet mango illustrations to honour her in-laws’ fruit-import business — a sweet surprise woven into the henna that delighted the entire family.
A Seamless Experience, Start to Stain
What sets Niyanta apart isn’t just her designs — it’s her approach. Every bride begins with a detailed consultation where they explore themes, inspirations, and even their ability to sit for hours. Her background in customer service shows — brides often describe her as warm, intuitive, and incredibly easy to work with.
“It’s not just about how long you can sit still or what smells you like,” she explains. “It’s about making sure you feel comfortable, heard, and excited about every part of the process.”
She only uses natural, freshly prepared henna, and educates each client on how to get the deepest, longest-lasting stain. While she gently busts the myths and old wives’ tales, her expert advice always comes with a touch of love and laughter.
The Future of Mehndi
While her feet are planted in heritage, Niyanta has her eyes on the future. She’s currently working on resources to bring the art and history of mehndi into schools, workplaces, and wellbeing spaces — a way to preserve its cultural significance and introduce its meditative beauty to new audiences.
She’s also exploring training opportunities to mentor future artists and continue the legacy.
“I want to create a space where artistry, emotion, and tradition intersect,” she shares. “Whether it’s a couple’s logo, a symbolic motif, or an entire origin story etched into the arms, mehndi will always have a place in modern weddings. It’s timeless.”
In a world that often races toward minimalism and speed, Mehndi by Niyanta invites us to slow down, sit still, and celebrate beauty that takes time. In her hands, mehndi becomes more than a tradition — it becomes a ritual of love, legacy, and self-expression.
Follow Niyanta on Instagram: @mehndibyniyanta
Website: www.mehndibyniyanta.com
Photography: Provided by Mehndi by Niyanta
