The diverse culture of our motherland India is aptly represented by the vibrant and various colours used in making a rangoli. Rangoli is a colourful design pattern which is loaded with colour and is based on any particular theme or pattern.

They are known by different names such as Chowk Purna in Madhya Pradesh, Muggu in Andhra Pradesh, Ossa in Orissa, Alpana in Kolkata, Mandana in Rajasthan, Kolam in Tamil Nadu and Aripana in Bihar. There are many different types of rangoli patterns.

• In north India, rangoli is drawn with an outer square grid. This square is generally made of gypsum. The rangoli which is made in south India is made of hexagonal grid.
• South Indians rely on the use of rice powder for making the hexagonal grid. Rice powder being coarse in nature helps in providing a good grip of the powder.
• The rangoli which is made during Onam is circular. This rangoli is symbolised by the use of flowers. People love to decorate the entrance of their house with a rangoli design.
• The Rajasthan mandana involves paintings on the walls.

Also rangoli can be classified on the parameter of different basic shapes.

• Shapes of various deities can be made.
• Different flowers such as lotus flower and other geometrical designs can be made.
• Dried flower petals along with diyas and lamps can be used to garnish the diwali rangoli.
• Peacock rangoli is a beautiful creation for the special events such as birthdays and anniversaries.
• Kundan rangoli design involves the usage of beads to beautifully design the floor. These beads are pasted on the floor with the help of glue and fevicol. Flower rangoli can be made using petals of roses, marigolds, blue orchids. Ganpati design which involves drawing of a sketch of Lord Ganesha. This is something which should be made during the house warming ceremony and the entrance of the homes, offices etc.
• Pulses rangoli which involves using various pulses for drawing a rangoli pattern can be also made.

The latest trend in making of rangoli design involves the usage of cement colours with the marble powder. This method requires special training. With a little training, one can be expert in this method. Also, using small colourful pebbles for the boundary of the rangoli can work wonders for the rangoli. The designs which are generally used in rangoli have got a big lot of inspiration from nature. Any type the rangoli be, it symbolizes colourfulness and happiness in one’s life.