We recently had the chance to connect with Priyanka Nanda and have shared our conversation below.
Hi Priyanka, thank you so much for joining us today. We’re thrilled to learn more about your journey, values and what you are currently working on. Let’s start with an ice breaker: What’s more important to you—intelligence, energy, or integrity?
For me, integrity is the most important. In my henna business, people are trusting me with something very personal—their skin, their celebration, and their story. Without integrity, the art loses meaning because it’s not just about creating something beautiful, it’s about honoring the person wearing it.
That said, I believe intelligence and energy naturally flow from integrity. Integrity keeps me grounded in my purpose, intelligence helps me grow and refine my craft, and energy allows me to bring joy and creativity to every client I meet. But at the core, integrity is what makes everything else meaningful and lasting.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
Hello, I’m Priyanka!
I am an HENNA artist in Sarasota area. For me, henna is much more than an art form—it’s a cherished connection to family, tradition, and the vibrant culture of my homeland, India. My journey began when I was just 10 years old, sitting on the kitchen counter and watching my mother prepare fresh henna paste for a festival. The earthy fragrance, the flow of her hands, and the beauty of the intricate designs captured my heart and sparked a lifelong passion.
I started by practicing on my mother’s hands and then my own, completely immersed in the flow of patterns and creativity. Over time, henna became more than a hobby—it became a source of joy, peace, and a meaningful way to celebrate life.
What began as a personal love has now blossomed into my brand, Henna with Priyanka. I specialize in designs that honor tradition while embracing modern artistry. Every cone of henna I use is handmade with 100% organic paste, ensuring the designs are not only beautiful but also safe and natural. My work brings people together for all kinds of occasions—festivals, weddings, birthdays, or simply for the joy of experiencing this ancient art.
Henna is also special because it offers more than just beauty. It carries natural healing properties—it can cool the body, soothe the skin, strengthen nails and hair, and even relieve headaches. It’s a beautiful blend of art and wellness.
Today, I feel grateful to share this tradition with people of all ages and backgrounds. Whether it’s a private session, a community event, or a special celebration, my goal is always to bring joy, connection, and a touch of artistry to someone’s life. You can always find me on Instagram, where I share my latest designs and videos.
Appreciate your sharing that. Let’s talk about your life, growing up and some of topics and learnings around that. What’s a moment that really shaped how you see the world?
A moment that truly shaped how I see the world was when I moved away from India and began building a life here in the U.S. Leaving behind the culture, traditions, and family I grew up with gave me a whole new perspective on identity and belonging. It made me realize how important it is to stay connected to my roots while also embracing new experiences and opportunities.
That’s one of the reasons henna feels so meaningful to me—it became my bridge between the two worlds. Every time I create a design, I’m reminded of where I come from, and I get to share that part of myself with people from completely different backgrounds. It taught me that no matter where we are, art and tradition can bring people together in the most beautiful way.
If you could say one kind thing to your younger self, what would it be?
If I could say one kind thing to my younger self, it would be: “Trust the process and trust yourself.” Life won’t always go the way you imagine, and there will be struggles you don’t see coming—but every challenge is shaping you into someone stronger, wiser, and more compassionate.
I would remind my younger self that it’s okay to stumble, to take detours, and even to start over. What matters most is resilience—the ability to keep moving forward while staying true to your values and passions. Looking back, every challenge has played a role in bringing me closer to where I am today, and I’d want her to know she’s always been enough, just as she is.
I think our readers would appreciate hearing more about your values and what you think matters in life and career, etc. So our next question is along those lines. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
A belief I’m deeply committed to is keeping the art of henna alive and sharing it in its most authentic, natural form. For me, henna isn’t just decoration—it’s tradition, wellness, and storytelling. I’m dedicated to educating people about its cultural roots, the beauty of organic paste, and the mindful, healing experience it offers.
This is not just a short-term project but a lifelong commitment. Whether it takes years to grow my brand, expand into teaching, or reach more communities, I know it’s worth it. My goal is to create a space where henna is appreciated not only as body art but also as a meaningful cultural practice that connects people, celebrates milestones, and brings joy.
Okay, so let’s keep going with one more question that means a lot to us: When do you feel most at peace?
I feel most at peace when I’m quietly creating—late morning light, a cup of chai beside me, my music low, and a fresh cone of organic henna in my hand. There’s something meditative about the rhythm of drawing tiny dots and sweeping lines; time slows, my thoughts settle, and the world narrows to the care I’m putting into each design. I also find deep calm after an event, when a nervous bride or excited child looks in the mirror and smiles—knowing I helped make a memory brings a quiet, grateful stillness that stays with me long after the henna fades.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.hennawithpriyank.com
- Instagram: @hennawithpriyanka
