Kunming : A vibrant display of South Asian culture stole the spotlight at the ninth edition of the China-South Asia Expo, as Pakistani henna art drew in crowds of fascinated visitors — especially Chinese women — eager to decorate their hands with the beautiful, intricate designs.
Held at the Dianchi International Convention and Exhibition Center in the city of Kunming, the Pakistan National Pavilion became a focal point of cultural admiration. Henna artists Iqbal Ahmad Dar and his Chinese wife Li Weirui were at the center of attention, transforming the hands and arms of attendees with traditional Pakistani motifs. Their stall offered not just an aesthetic experience but an immersive cultural exchange.
As the scent of natural henna paste filled the air, Iqbal delicately painted a blooming lotus flower on a visitor’s arm, explaining that in Pakistani tradition, the lotus represents purity, spirituality, and hopeful beginnings. Onlookers gathered around to watch, while some tried their hand at applying simple vine patterns. Others opted to get symbolic figures like peacocks or elephants inked under the artist’s skilled guidance.
Henna, or mehndi, has long been a symbol of celebration, good fortune, and festivity across South Asia, deeply embedded in wedding customs and religious festivals. What began as a centuries-old tradition has now evolved into a global form of body art, and its reception in China reflects its new cultural resonance.
Iqbal and Li, who have been participating in international cultural expos for years, say the experience goes beyond showcasing a traditional art form. Iqbal shared that they aim to create a lasting impression not only through Pakistani goods but also by promoting a deeper appreciation for their cultural heritage. Li added that, as a Pakistani-Chinese couple, they see themselves as a cultural bridge — a living symbol of harmony between their two nations.
The symbolic value of the henna patterns wasn’t lost on visitors. Blooming flowers conveyed hope and abundance. Peacocks were seen as symbols of elegance, while elephants — particularly popular among attendees — were cherished as omens of luck and family prosperity.
The fascination with Pakistani henna design at the Kunming expo shows how traditional art can transcend borders. Once used solely for ceremonies, henna is now a fashionable, expressive medium appreciated for its cultural depth and aesthetic charm.
As the natural dye dried on dozens of hands, one thing became clear: in the heart of China, a centuries-old South Asian tradition had found new admirers, and a deeper cultural dialogue had silently begun — one delicate, floral motif at a time.
