In Uttarakhand Weddings, the ceremony of applying henna paste to the hands and feet of the bride has been around for centuries. The bride has their hands decorated with a mehendi design, which is not only pretty but also symbolises auspiciousness. Some brides even have the groom's name hidden in the mehendi pattern, which he is expected to find later on. This brings an element of fun to the wedding festivities.

The Mehendi evening, filled with folk songs and dances, celebrates the continuity of ancient culture and traditions. Applying henna to a bride is a way for family and community women to bond and share in the bride’s happiness. Overall, the Mehendi night reinforces familial bonding and community ties while helping preserve traditional customs and Uttarakhand’s heritage. 

The attire for brides and grooms at the Mehendi function reflects the simplicity of the people of Uttarakhand. Traditional brides from Garhwal or Kumaon regions of Uttarakhand wear a Garhwali ghagra-choli or a Kumaoni cholo. Both are very similar and consist of a ghagra (long skirt) and a choli (blouse) adorned with intricate embroidery and mirror work. However, today, Mehendi outfits come in shades of pink, orange, yellow, turquoise, and gold intermingled with the ceremonial green.

On the other hand, grooms in Uttarakhand wear either a traditional kurta pyjama or a kurta dhoti for their Mehendi ceremony. Some may choose to wear a sherwani with a jacket. These traditional outfits are made from cotton, silk, or wool, depending on the weather. During the Mehendi ceremony, grooms in Uttarakhand may wear accessories such as a pagri (turban) or dupatta (a brocade shawl). Usually, the groom’s outfit colour, embroidery, and embellishment complement the bride’s Mehendi outfit.