Covid hits mehndi artists hard this year in Mandi

Tribune News Service

Mandi, November 4

The Covid-19 threat has overshadowed the Karwa Chauth festivities this year.

Mehndi artists reported a low turnout of customers this year as compared to the previous ones as women chose to skip the ritual amid the pandemic. “The application of mehndi requires a close proximity. Due to the threat of Covid, women avoided the ritual to stay safe and avoid any infection," said an artist.

Rahul and Rocki, well-known mehndi artists in the town, said their business was affected badly due to the pandemic this year. On the occasion of Karwa Chauth every year, long queues of women were observed in front of their stalls. However, only a few clients turned up this year.

Ram Krishan, another artist, said, “My livelihood is dependent on this art. We look forward to Karwa Chauth festivities as it is that time of the year when we earn good. However, the pandemic has hit the business hard. Only a few clients turned up to get henna applied.”