Veena Nagda's story is a testament to resilience and artistry, tracing her path from a modest upbringing in Kutch to becoming one of the most sought-after mehendi artists in India. Known for her intricate designs, Veena's journey is not merely about creating beautiful patterns but also about her unwavering passion and the sacrifices she made along the way. In a candid conversation, she shares her first encounter with actress Poonam Dhillon, the evolution of her craft, and how she carved a niche for herself in the competitive world of mehendi artistry.

Veena's roots lie in the culturally vibrant region of Kutch, where she grew up in a family that valued tradition. "As a child, I was immersed in embroidery, a skill passed down through generations," she reminisces. Despite her family's emphasis on education, higher studies were not an option for her. "My father promised me further education if I excelled in school, but that promise was never fulfilled," she reflects.

Instead of pursuing her studies, Veena assisted her mother with a tiffin service. However, a seemingly ordinary wedding would change her life forever. "I felt trapped at home, especially since my elder sister was already married and had more freedom to explore," she recalls. When her sister needed help at a wedding, she encouraged Veena to join, despite her initial reluctance due to her lack of experience in mehendi application.

With her sister's encouragement, Veena took a leap of faith. "I thought it would be a fun outing, and I had no idea it would lead to a career," she laughs. The event turned out to be a pivotal moment when actress Poonam Dhillon requested mehendi from her. "I was in awe of her presence, and when she complimented my work, it felt surreal," Veena shares.

Returning home, Veena was shocked to learn they were paid ₹10 per hand for their work. "I had never imagined I could earn money doing something I loved," she says. This newfound opportunity sparked her determination to pursue mehendi artistry. "I convinced my mother to let me continue, and soon word spread about my skills," she explains.

As demand grew, Veena began applying mehendi for various occasions beyond weddings, including festivals. "I started charging ₹10 to ₹20 for both hands, and it felt empowering to earn my own money," she recalls. Despite facing restrictions on her freedom, she made it clear to her husband that she wanted to continue her work after marriage, and he supported her decision.

Reflecting on her journey, Veena acknowledges the transformative power of mehendi in her life. "It has given me a name and a purpose," she states proudly. She fulfilled her dreams through her children, ensuring they received the education she was denied. "Both my kids studied abroad and have successful careers," she beams.

Veena's passion for mehendi has taken her around the globe, including teaching the art in Japan. "They were fascinated by its medicinal properties," she notes. Her work has also led her to prestigious events, including the Paris Olympics, where she applied mehendi for 17 consecutive days, breaking her own record.

At 61, Veena's name is synonymous with auspiciousness in the mehendi world. "People believe that if I apply mehendi, it brings good luck to brides," she shares. Her artistry has graced numerous Bollywood films, and she has built lasting relationships with iconic families, applying mehendi for generations.

Veena's meticulous approach to her craft sets her apart. "I prioritize perfection and always arrive early to events to ensure everything runs smoothly," she explains. Her dedication to her clients is unwavering, treating every bride with the same respect, regardless of their background.

Through her journey, Veena has remained humble and dedicated to her roots. "Mehendi is not just my profession; it is my identity," she concludes. Her story is one of perseverance, love, and the beauty of tradition, inspiring many to follow their dreams.