At Aliens Tattoo Studio, our motto is simple yet profound: We elevate life through our art. This belief is more than just words—it’s the guiding principle behind every tattoo we create. We don’t just ink skin; we transform personal stories into powerful visual expressions. In this chapter of another Aliens story, we delve into the journey of Kajal, a woman whose tattoos are as layered and intricate as her life.
For Kajal, a Canadian with Indian heritage, tattoos are more than just body art—they’re a form of journaling, a way to capture the chapters of her life story. Each design etched on her skin tells a tale, weaving together moments from her life, her deep connection with family, her reverence for tradition, and her evolution. Her tattoos are like a tapestry, with each thread representing a significant part of her identity.
A Journey Marked in Ink
Kajal was born and raised in Calgary, Canada—a city known for its conservative values, much like Texas in the United States. Growing up in a family deeply rooted in Indian cultural traditions, Kajal was surrounded by the rich heritage of her ancestors. Her upbringing was steeped in the customs and values of her parents’ homeland, yet Kajal’s perspective on life was uniquely her own. While she embraced her heritage with pride, she also forged her own path, blending the old with the new in a way that felt authentic to her.
At the age of 16, Kajal took her first step into the world of tattoos. It was a bold move, especially considering the conservative environment in which she was raised. Her first tattoo was a peacock, a design that symbolized more than just beauty; it represented her deep bond with her family. The peacock was adorned with her sister’s name beneath it, a tribute to the nurturing presence of her mother and the profound connection she felt with her sisters. Convincing her parents to approve of the tattoo was no easy task, but Kajal’s heartfelt explanation won them over. This first tattoo marked the beginning of a lifelong journey, a journey that would see Kajal’s body transformed into a canvas of meaningful art.
Once she started, there was no turning back. Kajal’s collection of tattoos grew over the years, each new design adding to the rich tapestry of her life story. One particularly special tattoo merged her mother’s love of singing with her father’s affection for elephants—a design that beautifully encapsulated the essence of her parents in a single image.
Another small tattoo, an airplane with a heart on one hand, represented her sister in India, a constant reminder of the bond they shared despite the distance. On the other hand, a lotus tattoo echoed her devotion to her culture and religion, symbolizing purity, enlightenment, and the strength to rise above challenges.
A script tattoo reading “That’s okay” served as a daily mantra, reminding Kajal to take life in stride, to embrace its ups and downs with grace and acceptance.
Kajal Called, and Aliens Tattoo Answered
Kajal’s journey eventually led her back to India, where she visited her sister. By this time, her body was already adorned with several tattoos, each one done by male artists in Canada. But this time, Kajal wanted something different.
She was looking for a female Indian tattoo artist, someone who truly understood her beliefs in feminism, someone who could blend modernity with tradition, and who wasn’t afraid to speak her mind. Kajal found her perfect match in Sakshi, an award-winning and among the best tattoo artists at Aliens Tattoo.
Before the actual tattooing began, there was the all-important design process. Kajal had a clear vision in mind—she wanted to honor a special gift from her sister: a pothos plant. This plant, with its heart-shaped leaves and its symbolism of perseverance and renewal, held deep significance for Kajal.
She wanted it to be immortalized on her skin, a permanent reminder of the close bond she shared with her sister. Alongside the pothos, Kajal chose a minimalist tattoo of Trajna—a traditional form of body art that held its unique meaning for her.
Kajal and Sakshi hadn’t met before the tattooing session, but when they finally did, they connected instantly. It was an early morning appointment at Aliens Tattoo Studio in Malad, Mumbai, and the two women bonded over shared experiences and mutual respect. Kajal had spent time reviewing all of Sakshi’s work online, and she felt confident that she had found the right artist for this deeply personal project.
Sakshi, in turn, understood the assignment perfectly. She saw the deep bond Kajal shared with the plant; a bond so strong that Kajal even conversed with the plant as though it were a living being. Sakshi took this connection to heart and created a vibrant watercolour tattoo of the plant. The leaf tattoo wraps around Kajal’s ribs, ensuring that this piece of art truly reflects the emotions behind it.
Embracing the Heritage
Kajal’s second tattoo paid homage to her roots. Living far from her origins, she yearned to express her identity visibly. She chose a Trajna—a traditional form of body art originating from Rajasthan and Gujarat, often used to signify cultural identity and spiritual beliefs. These intricate designs, featuring bold lines and symmetrical patterns, have been a part of Indian heritage for centuries, symbolizing protection, strength, and connection to one’s roots.
With Sakshi hailing from Rajasthan, it felt like a cultural reunion. In Kajal’s words, Sakshi felt like a cultural cousin, making this experience at Aliens Tattoo Studio all the more special and meaningful. The Trajna tattoo became a visible symbol of Kajal’s deep connection to her heritage, a piece of her identity she could carry with her wherever she went.
Kajal’s advice to those considering tattoos reflects her thoughtful nature. She emphasizes the importance of reviewing an artist’s work and connecting with their vibe before committing. This careful consideration mirrors her approach to decision-making.
A Kind Spirit with a Fierce Heart
Kajal’s tattoos are more than just designs; they’re expressions of her blended identity as a third-culture kid. Merging her Indian roots with her Canadian upbringing, her ink tells a story of both kindness and strength. She describes herself as a sweet and kind soul with a hint of fierceness, and we say Amen to that! More power to you, Kajal!
Kajal’s advice to those considering tattoos reflects her thoughtful nature. She emphasizes the importance of reviewing an artist’s work and connecting with their vibe before committing. This careful consideration mirrors her approach to decision-making—thoughtful, deliberate, and deeply personal.
Kajal’s journey with Aliens Tattoo is a testament to the power of ink in capturing life’s most meaningful moments. At Aliens Tattoo Studio in Mumbai, we don’t just create tattoos—we craft your story, turning your personal experiences into art that lasts a lifetime. Ready to share your journey with the world? Let us help you bring your story to life, one tattoo at a time. Come visit us and start your chapter in ink.
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