Thursday, March 10, 2011

Rangoli – Ancient Indian Art

Rangoli is the oldest traditional art in India. Its name is derived from the two words “rang” and “avalli” forming the expression “raw of colors” and its origin dates back to the Hindu mythology. The art is believed to cast away evil spirits from one's home or place of worship.



Usually Rangoli have patterns of geometric figures and designs build up one over another to form picturesque images of flowers, peacocks, swans, animals, creepers, footprints of Gods and spiritual symbols. The vivid colors give life to the illustrations. They are elaborated using colorful powders made out of white stone,lime,rice flour, condiments and spices. In the past were used barks of trees and leaves, however nowadays there are a lot of synthetic materials used to reach the required color. It is believed that no broken lines should exist or even empty spaces should be avoided in the rangoli pattern in order one to be safe from ill spirits.

According to a legend rangoli is the earliest painting ever created. It was done by a King who has lost his son. Lord Brahma ordered the father to make a picture of the boy and then the God infused life into the painting and revived the prince.

Rangoli uses completely different approach from the traditional paintings. It is created on floors or walls of one's home, in place of worship, or even at eating places. It is also believed that the Lakshmi - Goddess of wealth, resides in the house where a well made rangoli is made at the doorstep.



Rangoli is mainly art performed by women and girls. They are creating the beautiful figures with their fingers or using small brushes. Rangoli may be placed near the child on his birthday, naming ceremony or even at one's marriage. For a stronger impact an oil lamp would be placed near the rangoli, increasing the effect of the image.

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