Faiths and Beliefs

·      Rangoli is basically a creative expression of art in ancient times. People used to make Rangolis outside their houses to welcome guests. 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.  

·      Spiritually, the artist has to silently concentrate on her creation, as if meditating. Moreover, it encourages creativity..

·     In addition to the decorative appearance, they are also meant to protect the family and bring good luck. 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. Although rangoli is made on many occasions in India, Diwali festival witnesses the greatest use of rangoli. People made rangolis on the entrance doors of their homes on the auspicious occasion of Diwali, not only to welcome guests, but Goddess Laxmi (the goddess of wealth and fortune). Goddess Lakshmi, who is the Goddess of wealth and prosperity, is considered to be attracted by colorful rangolis and is believed to visit homes that are well lit and decorated. This is why it is believed that Goddess Lakshmi’s blessings will follow where colorful rangolis are made. Generally, this practice is showcased during occasions such as festivals, auspicious observances, marriage celebrations and other similar milestones and gatherings.
·     According to Lance Nelson's study,  Bhumi Devi [earth goddess] is our mother. She is everyone’s source of existence. Nothing would exist without her. The entire world depends on her for sustenance and life. So, we draw the kolam first to remind ourselves of her. All day we walk on Bhumi Devi. All night we sleep on her. We spit on her. We poke her. We burden her. We do everything on her. We expect her to bear us and all the activities we do on her with endless patience. We do the kolam to please and appease Bhuma Devi.

·       Decoration was not the sole purpose of a rangoli, Kolam(in Tamil). In olden days, kolams used to be drawn in coarse rice flour, so that the ants don't have to work so hard for a meal. The rice powder is said to invite birds and other small critters to eat it, thus inviting other beings into one's home and everyday life: a daily tribute to harmonious co-existence. It is a sign of invitation to welcome all into the home, not the least of whom is Goddess Lakshmi, the Goddess of prosperity.

·       When we see any large rangoli design , it gives a wider vision to our eyes, mind & soul. Every rangoli is a symbol of purity and perfection. It widens our thoughts and vision when it is repeatedly drawn.  Girls learn this kolam(in Tamil) ritual from their female relatives, and kolam skills are viewed as a mark of grace and as a demonstration of dexterity, mental discipline and ability to concentrate.

·      Kolams also reflected on a woman's nature, her recording patience, creative values, changing mood elevations! Yes, these are too small to judge at the first look, but surely holds a high esteem of the person who draws the kolam every day at her front door outskirts. Only an experienced person on such psychology and sociology can spot the difference! 

·      This culture is being carried 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.

·       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. Thus, reflecting regional beliefs and aesthetics based on a common spiritual plane,  the art of floor painting is one which has survived all influences and retained and transmitted the spirit of Indian life. 

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