What is Rangoli?

Rangoli is a traditional art of India. Rangoli is believed to bring good luck and prosperity. It is a floor art which is practiced by Indians (mostly women and girls) across the world during festivals like Diwali, Pongal etc. Bengalis call it Alpana and South Indians call it Kolam. The size and shape of rangoli designs depends totally on the person making the design. Rangoli designs can be made by sand, gulal, flowers, lime, spices etc. Where sand or gulal is used for making rangoli designs, the vibrant use of many colors is a commom thing. A special type of Rangoli called as ‘Maandna’ (मांडना) is made using lime on auspicious occasions. Rangoli can also be made from colorful flowers decorated beautifully on the floor which is called Pookalam or Athapookalam. Traditional floral design or pookalam is popular in Kerala which is made during Onam festival.

Doremon Rangoli design by Poonam Sitani Agarwal, Kolkata

“Mein kisi ka sapna hu Jo aaj ban chuka hu sach… ab ye mera sapna hai ki sabke sapne sach mein karu” an inspiration and great motivator for young kids- Doremon in the rangoli art form.

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Chhota Bheem Rangoli design by Riya A Jain, Kolkata

Huge rangoli of Chhota Bheem, every child’s hero, made using flowers and rangoli colors.

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Rangoli design at Ice Skating Rink, Kolkata

Unique  rangoli design covering the entire one side of the wall, made using the rice flour and  rangoli colors and the border is made with molly. Very neat and great work of art.

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