Celebrating Henna: A New Student Organization at UNC

First-year student Inaaya Siddiqui is on a mission to bring the art of henna to the forefront of the Carolina community. With her passion for this South Asian tradition, she founded the student organization called @hennaatthehill.

What is Henna?

Henna, also known as mehndi in several cultures, is an ancient art form practiced widely in South Asia, the Middle East, and Africa. This natural dye, extracted from the Lawsonia inermis plant, is renowned for its ability to temporarily stain the skin, hair, and nails.

The Cultural Significance of Henna

Often associated with joyous occasions, henna typically symbolizes love, prosperity, and happiness across various religions and cultures. From weddings to religious festivals, this beautiful art form plays a significant role in celebrations.

From Inspiration to Creation

Siddiqui’s inspiration stems from her experience at Walter M. Williams High School in Burlington, North Carolina, where she introduced henna to the art department during a cultural festival. The positive response sparked her interest in bringing this idea to Chapel Hill.

“This could be a big thing in Carolina,” Siddiqui shared. “There’s so many different people that are interested in it, and I would love to bring different people together with such a unique skill to have.”

Normalizing Henna as Everyday Art

Henna at the Hill aims to introduce henna to the UNC community as a daily form of expression rather than merely an artistic choice for special events.

“Henna is usually just for weddings, Eid, and celebrations,” Siddiqui noted. “But I want it to be something that’s part of everyday life.”

Activities and Engagements

Since its inception last semester, Henna at the Hill has hosted workshops where participants can practice their skills and learn the art form. These sessions often feature beloved television shows to create a relaxed environment, making it a perfect place to unwind.

The club has actively participated in the UNC Multicultural Festival, organized by the Resident Hall Association, and continues to collaborate with other cultural organizations on campus.

Inclusivity and Community

“Anyone from any experience level can come and learn henna or practice their skills,” said Zahra Qureshi, a sophomore and vice president of the club. “We create a very welcoming space, making it a fun time to hang out.”

Qureshi operates her own henna business, @zahrasxart on Instagram, and joined the club out of her passion for bringing people together through this art form.

“[Henna] actually brings people together a lot,” she explained. “It’s a really cute idea, and I wanted to be on the board for it.”

Enhancing Cultural Awareness

Avid club member Eden Gaines, a double major in psychology and statistics, shared how the club has broadened her understanding of various henna traditions and applications.

“I didn’t really understand the significance of intricate henna, especially for weddings. Learning about it has really increased my awareness,” Gaines stated. “It’s been fascinating to gain insights into cultures outside of my own.”

Join the Movement

Henna at the Hill continues to promote the cultural tradition of henna, making it more accessible while enhancing the cultural diversity of the UNC community. For more information, check out their Heel Life page or follow them on Instagram at @hennaatthehill.

In a welcoming environment, anyone interested in henna can learn and enjoy the experience, regardless of their skill level. “Nobody should be intimidated by the intricacies,” Qureshi emphasized. “It’s a fantastic opportunity to explore creativity and culture.”