Mehni (or Henna) is the application of henna (Hindustani: हेना- حنا- urdu) as a temporary form of skin decoration, in South Asia, the Middle East, North Africa and Somalia as well as expatriate communities from these areas. It is typically employed for special occasions, particularly weddings. It is usually drawn on the hands and feet, where the color will be darkest because the skin contains higher levels of keratin which binds permanently to lawsone, the colorant of henna. The tradition of Henna started in India in the early days when bridal decoration was scarce. Henna was used as a form of decoration mainly for brides.