What is Rangoli?

Rangoli, the practice of sand-painting, is one of the most popular art forms of India. Each unique Rangoli design is made directly on the ground.

Every day, early in the morning and in late afternoon during certain holidays, women draw on thresholds of houses or at the entrance to the temples. They first draw the dotted contour patterns with a white powder, usually limestone or rice, before filling in a series of lines and color.

Making this art outside using sand as a medium is often thought to be a metaphor for the temporary nature of life. The Rangoli designs vary from region to region and are often passed down from mother to daughter. Some are hundreds of years old and are not only beautifully artistic but they also are believed to protect home, family or holy places. They are also meant as a sign of welcome to Laksmi, the goddess of prosperity and for visitors of the day