It is an age old belief that Goddess Lakshmi visits well decorated homes during Diwali to bless and help devotees prosper. So people who observe the festival decorate their homes the best way they can. Illumination and fireworks are synonymous to Diwali. There are various other aspects which are related to Diwali and Rangoli is one of them.
It is said that there is no better way to welcome the Goddess than decorating homes with intricate designs on the floor. The Rangoli powder gains much importance during the festival. Colors are carefully chosen and artistic designs drawn. Sometimes the art is not confined to Rangoli powder alone. Sand, rice, mustard and sometimes flower petals are also used in drawing out Rangoli patterns. Having its origin in India the designs are very much Indian and there is no scope for modern art and least of all during auspicious occasions.
The designs are mostly circular with drawings that take shape within the circle. The circle denotes the endlessness of time. Celestial bodies like the sun, moon, zodiac signs, figurines and flowers are a common theme for Rangoli patterns. The lotus flower which symbolizes Goddess Lakshmi's seat is also considered auspicious.
Rangoli designs in certain parts of the country are specific. There are two interfaced triangles that denote the deity for learning-Goddess Saraswati. In northern Bihar Goddess Lakshmi's feet is drawn at the entrance, with the feet pointing towards the house indicating her entrance.
Down south in the state of Andhra Pradesh you will find the eight-petal lotus or 'ashtadal kamal'. The 'hridaya kamalam' which is an eight pointed star, meaning lotus of the heart is seen in Tamil Nadu. Various forms of lotus namely 'shankh kamal' and 'thabak' denoting shell lotus and salver are seen as the main motifs in the Rangoli designs. Besides the designs rising out of Lotus, Conch and Swastikas are also used as motifs.
In southern India Rangoli is generally seen in geometric patterns. They are formed from dots and straight lines which merge to result in exquisite designs. It is auspicious to draw Rangoli out of rice flour, as it is a sign of prosperity. Other food items like dal, green pea, sesame seeds, turmeric powder and rice is used to make the Rangoli look more ornate.
It may be an individual effort or a result of continuous team work lasting for a few days where the whole community joins together, to come up with spectacular designs. Competitions are held so as to add on to the festive spirit. Despite busy schedules, during the Diwali festival people get together to celebrate it with much gusto. With every Diwali there are at least a handful of new designs created which adds to the joie de vivre of Diwali.
The art of Rangoli and its ever evolving trends indeed adds a spark of exuberance to one of the most vibrant festivals in India.
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