Rangoli is an ancient Indian art form and is a part of the Indian culture. It incorporates designs and patterns that are beautifully created and colored with paints, rice, spices, sand or sawdust at house entrances. This is done usually during festivals to give it a very traditional look. It is more like a custom to make a Rangoli during festive times and that’s how it has been deeply embedded in our culture.
The emergence of the creative art of Rangoli stems from the Indian scriptures and puranas. It is believed to have been originated in the state of Maharashtra and from there it dispersed to other parts of the country. Rangoli is addressed differently in different parts of India. It is called Madana in Rajasthan, Kolam in South India, Alpana in Bengal, Aripana in Bihar and so on. So, it is true that the Rangoli culture is very widespread. Rangoli literally means colors and row of colors, indicating that it refers to something that makes a beautiful pattern using varied colors to give a traditional look.
Rangoli is basically a creative expression of art and in ancient times, people used to make Rangolis outside their houses to welcome guests. Rangoli is also considered a symbol of good luck and that is why it is created during festivals to invite the blessings of gods and goddesses. For e.g.: During Diwali, Rangoli is made outside almost every house. Goddess Lakshmi, who is the Goddess of wealth and prosperity, is considered to be attracted by colorful Rangolis. This is why it is believed that Goddess Lakshmi’s blessings will follow where colorful Rangoli is made.
Because ours is the culture of “AtithiDevoBhava” which means that the guest is next to god. So, drawing a Rangoli outside the house signifies how important the guest is to the host and what positivity he/she can get once they are pleased with a vibrant Rangoli outside the house. Thus, it is like an energy filter.
Rangoli formation is done with the help of vibrant colors on the floor. These days, three-dimensional designs have become extremely popular and they add to the liveliness of any design, having a positive impact on the mind. The culture of Rangoli has long been associated with festivals and that is because it is considered sacred to have a Rangoli outside the house. It is during the time of festivals that people look forward to being together and celebrate with the spirit of togetherness.
Although Rangoli making has been a part of the decorations in the past, it still continues to make its way during festivals and auspicious occasions like marriages and birth ceremonies. This culture is carrying forward because of the positivity it has on a human mind leading to internal peace and harmony. Also, it has a welcoming gesture to it when drawn outside a house and this is mainly why Rangoli has become such an essential part of our culture. Thus, with flower petals, lentils, colored paints and sawdust, let us take the culture of Rangoli forward and keep inviting peace, happiness and prosperity to our houses.