Veena Nagda on experience of applying mehendi at Paris Olympics, association with the Ambanis: ‘I started with Rs 25 for two hands for Kokilaben'

Indian Express

18-06-2025

Celebrity mehendi artist Veena Nagda recalled her visit to the Paris Summer Olympics 2024, an opportunity she got at the behest of Nita Ambani. Reminiscing about the experience of applying Olympic-themed mehendi to fans visiting India House, she said: 'Olympics toh maine sapne me bhi nahi socha tha (I had never even dreamed about the Olympics). Jab Olympics ke liye India House me Nita Ambani family ne mujhe chuna, mujhe bahut acha laga (I felt terrific when I was chosen by Nita Ambani for mehendi at the Olympics). At 62, I continuously applied mehendi from 10 am to 10 pm, yet the queue was tremendous.'
She also gave the sensory details. 'I met a lot of people from other parts of the world. I am grateful to Nita Ambani and the Reliance family. We had to showcase India-Paris culture, Olympic rings in the designs. Nita ji told me to make India proud. She was also happy because there were designs of all the rings with elephant, lotus, peacock, and the Eiffel Tower. The line was huge. I thought there would be no better day than that in my life,' Nagda told Meri Sahelli.
In the same interview, she also spoke about her relationship with the Ambanis, which began when the cost of applying mehendi on both hands was Rs 25.
'I started with Rs 25 for two hands of mehendi for Kokilaben Ambani. I have been going to their home since then. Their daughters-in-law and kids keep calling me. I have also been the mehendi artist for Shloka Ambani ever since she was six. I am very happy that I still cherish the relationship that I have made. Nita ji and her daughter Isha also call me,' added Nagda.
She also spoke about how her journey in Bollywood started through word of mouth and how she has applied mehendi on who's who despite being from a humble background.
Taking a cue from her revelation, let's look at how the relationships we build through work often last a lifetime.
In a world where transactions dominate, it's easy to forget that our work, when done with pure intent, authenticity, and sincerity, can become a sacred bridge to lifelong relationships, said Delnna Rrajesh, psychotherapist, energy healer, and life coach.
'When your work stems from love, presence, and authentic service, it becomes more than a skill. It becomes a soul-touchpoint. People may forget what you did, but never forget how you made them feel. Especially when your presence brought calm in their chaos, or strength in their storms,' said Delnna.
Delnna stressed how authentic service transitions with people as they evolve.
'It doesn't end with the session. It carries forward in trust, gratitude, and shared growth. Whatever your profession, whether you're a teacher, a healer, an artist, a mehendi expert, or a coach, when your intent is pure, your commitment unwavering, and your heart is in it… your work will naturally build relationships that stand the test of time,' said Delnna.
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According to Delnna, it's not about marketing. It's about meaning. 'It's not about reach. It's about resonance. And it's not about client retention. It's about soulful connection,' said Delnna.
When you give genuinely, you don't just grow your work or practice, you grow a world around it, added Delnna.