India is justly renowned for some of the sweetest and most passionate works of art ever conceived. Literature, dance, drama and visual art express love for the family, for a lover and for the divine, and these are often metaphorically intertwined. One particularly intense expression of love in Indian art is adornment - the preparation of the body, the home or the image of God prior to rituals of union. Artists of all kinds have become skilled at creating the objects of love and devotion, and expressing the related emotions.

Mehndi is the art of painting the body, as well as the name of the dye and stain extracted from henna leaves. It originated in Egypt and was introduced to India in the 12th century by Muslim immigrants. Since India's climate is very hot, mehndi became popular because the paste has a cooling effect. For centuries, it has been linked to wedding traditions, and is used by brides to decorate their feet and hands with intricate designs.

International stars such as Madonna have placed mehndi in the spotlight, giving it new life in popular culture. The adornment of the body with beautiful designs or temporary tattoos has become fashionable throughout the world.