Bold and Beautiful

To stand apart from the crowd is something each youngster strives for. And to achieve this today''s Gen-X is not merely opting for stylised dressing and accessorising but towards permanent and fascinating markers like body piercing and tattooing, as well.
Tattooing is a body art which has been practised in various civilisations including India, since ancient times.The art which was once restricted to women folk in certain communities of the country is now finding takers among the most happening crowd in the city, the college-goers. According to a first year student of Sociology (Hons) at Gargi College, Radhika Sewalia, "Tattoos are definitely in vogue these days. I have got a star similar to the US Marine symbol on my right arm and I find people noticing me due to it. I find it very fascinating and it has actually become a part of my personality."
For most of the people what they get tattooed is a glimpse of their inner self. "I have got a tattoo on my back which is not visible until I take off my shirt for sports'' practice. I didn''t get it done to show off but more for myself," said Abhimanyu Singh, a student of second year, B A (Pass) at St Stephen''s College. Singh has got a dragon etched between Chinese characters on left and right and it signifies power for him. It is moreover, to keep alive his association with China where lived for three years.
"Tattoos for most people are closely linked to their character. It reflects what they believe in and what message they want to send across. Therefore, I advise my clients to make a careful selection of the design they want to get tattooed. After all, it''s worse then getting married, since its a life-long commitment," said Michael Glenn Cowasji, a renowned tattoo artist in the Capital.
There is a huge variety to choose from the tribal bands, zodiac signs, Celtic symbols, floral motifs, animal, fish or insects, Chinese, Japanese and even Indian symbols, and many many more. Tattoo artists like Glenn Cowasji claim to draw out anything one can possibly think of. Size of a tattoo can vary anywhere from a square inch to something which could cover your entire arm or back. And gone are the days when you could get only a black motif to adorn your skin as the colour ones are easily available at a slightly higher cost.
Interestingly, a tattoo is one fashion statement which is equally patronised by both guys and girls. "Getting a tattoo done is a painful affair and for guys it could be a way to assert their strength," said Singh. Although Glenn Cowasji maintains that the tolerance power is much higher among girls.
Where you wear your tattoo matters a lot. For sober personalities it could be a small thing on the arm or the back. Girls with an adventurous streak experiment with one on their waist, chest, shoulder, lower back, naval or even ankles. "A tattoo on the navel or lower back looks very attractive and people deliberately wear outfits which could let a peek," said Juhi, a student of second year German studies at Delhi University.
For those who are contemplating on joining the bandwagon, here is a word of advice from Glenn Coswaji, "Before getting a tattoo done, go for counselling about the art and make a careful selection of the design. Do not opt for anything in a hurry. Ensure that the tattoo parlour, from where you are getting the job done, is hygienic and uses proper and disposable gloves, syringes and other material. And last but not the least, know your artist beforehand." Once you get a tattoo done, do follow the instructions of your artist to get the right effect.