Rangoli is an elegant form of folk art in which selected patterns are drawn on the floor of courtyard, living rooms and entrances. A Rangoli pattern symbolises and marks the beginning of an auspicious occasion. It is generally considered as a good omen. Lately it has been considered as ‘art of moment’.

Rangoli has been traditionally drawn on an area of 2 square feet. Traditionally, these were used only on the day of festival or some auspicious occasion. But in the modern world Rangoli has found a place in opening ceremony, house warming party, weddings and corporate functions. Rangoli generally represents a colourful painting. So, the top most material required will be colours. Then there are other rangoli materials used to beautify the design.

• Kolam powder is a kind of white powder available in India. It is made of special white rock. The basic of Rangoli drawing is done with the help of Kolam powder. With the help of this white powder, a boundary or an outline is drawn in which colours are filled later on. White being used symbolises peace, purity and tranquillity.
• The varieties of colour which are used to fill the colour in the outline are called as the raw powder which is easily available in the grocery stores.
• A latest addition to the colours being used is soil and colour powder.
• The mixing of sand along with the rangoli colours give bright colour and thus consumption of colour is reduced.
• A red brick paste is used to make border or outline outside the rangoli. Another colour which symbolises prosperity is yellow. This is achieved by using turmeric powder that is mixed along with vermillion to make decorative figures.
• Flowers which have been freshly plucked are used to garnish the rangoli. Rose, marigold, small purple flowers along with methi leaves are being used. Lamps are lighted over the Rangoli to amplify its beauty.
• Dried flowers are also used in the same case as fresh flowers. This has its own distinctive appeal.
• Different types of pulses are being also used. Pulses render a typical texture to Rangoli.
• Grains are also used for decorative purposes.
• Nowadays even fresh fruits and vegetables are used to make rangoli. Fruits and vegetables like orange, berries, tomatoes, coriander leaves, cucumber and grapes are used to intricate designs especially in the temple complexes. These are drawn on a neat area of the complex over a piece of cloth or fabric and further the same fruits and vegetables are used as sacrament (prashad).
• Coloured stones also find a place in modern day rangoli.

Rangoli is a symbol of happiness. The use of various colourful items symbolise the addition of colours in life. Welcome all the new beginnings in your new life with the colourful sparks of Rangoli. Get up, impress your guests with your beautiful Rangoli.