Bhopal, Apr 23: "Not long ago, tattoo used to be synonymous with tribal people of India and aborigines of US and Australia. It was a symbol of love, faith and trust. When asked about her husband's name, a tribal woman used to show her forearm where his name is tattooed. Uttering the name of husband in front of others was forbidden among the tribals. Now, it is becoming the fashion of modern society also as there is craze for it among the youths".

Since early times the art of tattoo existed in our society. When someone mention tattoo, we think of the women and children of tribals who used to have tattoo on their face and other parts of body as part of their custom. In this modern age tattoo is termed as 'Body Art'. The youth of today uses this art to highlight a particular part of the body to attract attention. The youths adopt anything very fast and they are always looking for a change.

Two types of tattoos are available now. The first one is permanent. After adopting, it is permanent for life. The second one is temporary, with the help of stickers. These types of tattoo can be easily washed and removed any time.

There are several types of designs available in the market, particularly the temporary ones. Designs of OM, or any religion's symbol, name, animals like lion, tiger, etc, butterfly, etc are more popular among the youth.

Charges for getting tattooed depend upon the design, pattern etc. Charges for permanent tattoo start from Rs 500 and may go up to Rs 1000. The temporary one may cost you Rs 25 and above and may go up to Rs 500.

Shreta says that God's name was tattooed on her grandmother's hand. 'I like tattoo, but not the permanent type. I use only the sticker type tattoo', she said.

According to Reema, tattoo is fashionable and it has become the current trend. 'It gives a cool look. If you want to be noted in a party, just have a sticker tattoo on your hand. I bet everyone will watch you', she said.

Chaitanya says he has seen the tattoo on the body of celebrities. I have never used it myself, he added.

Shubham Ahirwar likes to colour the tattoos. There are a lot of designs and pattern. I use them for drawing, he said.

Roopali said she had heard about the permanent tattoos would pain you while etching. She has an alternative. The temporary sticker tattoos. 'It looks very beautiful. Moreover it can be changed and use new design', she added.