The Aryavarth Express:
Pali (Rajasthan), April 6:The ongoing conflict in West Asia involving the United States, Israel, and Iran has begun to significantly impact Rajasthan’s globally renowned mehendi (henna) industry in Sojat, disrupting exports, slowing production, and leaving consignments worth crores stranded at ports.
Located in the Pali district, Sojat is widely known for its large-scale mehendi production, owing to its unique soil and climatic conditions. The region’s mehendi is highly valued both in India and internationally, commonly used for adornment and religious rituals. It is especially popular among women, including Bollywood celebrities, and enjoys strong demand across the Middle East, Africa, and parts of Europe.
However, traders say the ongoing geopolitical tensions have severely disrupted business operations. The impact, they note, is even more intense than during the COVID-19 lockdown. Of the more than 150 factories in Sojat, many have either slowed down production or shut operations temporarily.
Exporters report that goods worth nearly ₹250 crore are currently stuck at ports and warehouses. The industry, which typically generates an annual turnover of ₹4,000–5,000 crore, has seen a sudden downturn. Overall production has dropped by around 80%, while factories producing natural mehendi and hair dye for Middle Eastern markets have reported a decline of up to 20%.
Trader Vikas Tank stated that nearly 20% of Sojat’s mehendi output is exported, primarily to Gulf countries, and the ongoing crisis has dealt a major blow to revenues.
“Labourers are also suffering. Factories that used to run 24 hours a day are now operating only 12 hours. Many workers from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar are returning home due to reduced employment opportunities,” he said.
He further added that while domestic demand continues, export earnings—typically more lucrative due to dollar payments—have taken a hit, weakening cash flows and delaying payments.
Another trader, Naresh Kumar, highlighted that a significant portion of exports is routed through Jebel Ali Port in Dubai, a key logistics hub.
“Alternative routes are far more expensive, making Jebel Ali critical for our trade. Due to the conflict, shipments have come to a halt. Several containers are stuck in transit, and there is no clarity on their status,” he said.
He emphasized that Sojat’s mehendi enjoys global recognition, with demand extending even to international entertainment industries.
The ongoing conflict, which escalated after joint US-Israeli strikes on Iran on February 28, has disrupted key maritime routes and impacted global trade flows. As tensions continue, industries like Sojat’s mehendi trade remain vulnerable to prolonged uncertainty.
