What Is Alta? The Traditional Red Dye Brides Still Love!

Alta, also known as lac dye, is a bright red liquid dye widely used in Bengali and other South Asian wedding traditions. Unlike mehendi, which stains the skin brown, alta gives an instant pop of vibrant red on the bride’s hands and feet.

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Why is Alta Used in Weddings?

Alta holds deep cultural significance, it symbolizes fertility, prosperity, and marital bliss. Brides typically apply it on their palms, fingers, and the soles of their feet as part of the pre-wedding beautification rituals.

How Brides Use Alta Today

Applied with cotton or small brushes, alta dries quickly and washes off easily. Modern brides often:

• Pair it with mehendi for a striking contrast

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• Use it to outline designs 

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• Wear it with shakha-pola for the classic Bengali bridal look 

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A Timeless Bridal Tradition

With its bold colour and cultural charm, alta continues to be a favourite for brides who want to embrace tradition while adding a touch of vibrant elegance to their wedding look.

Whether you’re a bride looking to honor tradition or simply want to add a pop of color to your wedding ensemble, alta offers a timeless way to celebrate your special day. Its vibrant hue, cultural significance, and ease of use make it a must-have for Bengali brides and anyone wanting to infuse their wedding rituals with meaningful elegance. Embracing alta is more than just a beauty choice, it’s a nod to heritage, love, and the joyful beginnings of married life.

Read this blog to have an idea on what are the essentials for a Bengali Bride. (click here)