Rangoli is a colorful pattern or drawings that are usually prepared on different festivals, religious occasion and any auspicious occasion (wedding, ceremonies, birthday) in India. There are few specific Indian states where the tradition of Rangoli making is greatly followed. The word ‘Rangoli’ is comprised of two terms ‘rang’ means colors and ‘aavali’ means rows of colors/flowers. Hence it refers to the painting of different rows of colors/flowers. Rangoli is always prepared on the ground and particularly at the main entrance of the home or sometimes in the central part of the home. The tradition of Rangoli is quite famous all over the India with many names and its preparation styles are also varied in the different Indian states, like, it is known as Rangoli in Gujarat, Maharashtra and Karnataka, while in Bengal it is called Alpana, in Bihar as Aripana, Chowkpurna in Uttar Pradesh, as Kolam in Kerala and Tamil Nadu and as Muggu in Andhra Pradesh. But most popularly it has been known as Rangoli that simply indicates towards the vibrance of colors and beautiful mesmerizing designs. Different images of peacocks, Ganesha, swastika, flowers, humans, dancing forms and instruments are usually made in the Rangoli which are decorated with colors and flowers of different colors, pulses and grains are also used to enhance the beauty of it. The reason behind the tradition of Rangoli is that that color and flowers bring happiness and joy for everyone in the home, it brings prosperity and depicts hospitality. By making Rangoli at the entrance of the home people asks for the blessings of God and asks for his grace to be showered upon each family member. It is a way to please the gods and goddesses.
