Mehndi by Tan was invited to return to Discovery this year to decorate staff with henna, once again.
I was ecstatic to be reinvited to Discovery due to the extraordinary experience initially, so it was a no brainer really. This time the visit was for Eid – al – fitr celebrations, commonly referred to as ‘Eid’ singly and a dear friend Anees joined me on this visit.
Eid -al -fitr is the first of two Eid’s (“It’s sort of equivalent to ‘Christmas’ for Muslims all around the world,” is how I grew up describing it to employers, employees and non-muslim friends, particularly referring to similarities in family gatherings, plenty of food and presents shared amongst loved ones). Eid- al- fitr is celebrated after the month of fasting, Ramadhan. Ramadhan is where muslims fast from dawn until dusk, so basically nothing is to be consumed. The elderly, pregnant, poorly, women during their menstrual cycle and young children are exempt from fasting. Ramadhan is said to be the month where the holy book (Qu’ran) was exposed. During this month abstinence from food, drink, and other pleasures of life is expected in order to strengthen the inner self and also to reflect and learn empathy towards the less fortunate. It is also a month where charity is given in abundance to the less fortunate all over the world. Many people also travel to Mecca (Saudi Arabia), for pilgrimage.
Discovery had organised food, drink and henna art for staff, imitating an example of what and how Muslim households prepare for, and celebrate Eid.
Mehndi by Tan set up in the airy and bright canteen which seems to be the hub for socialising and relaxation during breaks for staff at Discovery headquarters. For Eid celebrations Discovery had set up chai (tea), asian sweets (I’d refer to it as ‘Indian’ sweets however it’s a delicacy enjoyed across multiple cultures so that’d be unfair(!) It was wonderful to see staff members visiting us throughout the morning and afternoon, some we remembered from the previous visit and we also met newbies! This will be a memorable experience because whilst we worked a world cup match was being aired which created such a great atmosphere to work in! I did jump a few times during the football match whilst goals were being scored! Listening to, and watching the friendly competition between colleagues originally from the two opposing countries was certainly joyous.
The awesomeness about the whole experience at Discovery is the intrigue and interest in henna art, particularly by first time henna clients. Queries about it’s origin, it’s purpose, the application process and the outcome. The whole experience leaves people in awe, every time. Even to date, it makes my heart smile when people from all ethnicities and cultures partake in henna application as to me, it shows open- mindedness, an open heart and willingness to learn about something new. It’s truly beautiful.
Henna art is not ‘owned’ by one said culture, the beauty is that henna has traveled world wide and unites everyone, despite race, religion, gender or culture, that is equality in action. Henna is emerging more-so in the western world on a daily basis and will continue to do so for a very long term.
Having worked and volunteered for various organisations in and around England, Discovery has certainly appealed to be one of the most diverse organisations that I have worked for, to date. However, the journey within the corporate sector has only just begun so I’m excited to witness and experience the inclusivity and diversity existing in companies all over England and beyond. This is the way forward.
It was an honour and an absolute pleasure to be invited back and to be a part of another diverse, cultural event, because we love to promote social inclusion and spread cultural awareness. Thank you Discovery, keep up the amazing work.
Tan
Mehndi by Tan
www.mehndibytan.co.uk
Email: info@mehndibytan.co.uk
