Oscar Wilde once said, “Mere color can speak to the soul in thousand different ways.

” Color is often
observed as a medium of visible communication, affecting our mood on various occasions, making us feel
exuberant at some time and somber at some other. For a science student one may recall his early lessons
in physics that all colors originate from white light. Similarly beneath all emotions, thoughts, feelings,
reactions – there is deep stillness always available to you. And, Light is a mystic significance of cosmic
stillness available to you beneath all colors of emotions. But, when it comes to the spiritual distribution
of colors, or simply Rangoli, a clear image of meticulously drawn geometric layout with a blend of
ebullient colors and tempting, intricate designs, forms in one’s mind.

Rangoli first originated during the time of Chitralakshana. It was first made by him as a portrait of a boy,
the son of a priest who had died. There are evidences from Ramayana too, wherein the people of Ayodhya
painted Rangoli designs to welcome Shree Rama back after fourteen years of migration in the forest.

Rangoli, while being influenced by traditions of a region, has also been surrounded by myths and beliefs
in certain states. For example, in Tamilnadu, it is believed that Andaal worshipped Lord Vishnu and was
married to him in the month of Margazhi (Mid December – Mid January). So during this month,
unmarried girls wake up before dawn and draw a Rangoli to welcome the God Thirumal.

The significance of Rangoli is connected to the spiritual essence of colors and life, as it is thought to bring
some good luck on festive occasions and other devotional ceremonies. Although, traditionally practiced
by woman in marriage celebrations and auspicious observances, now days even children and men also
actively engage in illustrating this exclusive art form.

Rangoli, as said earlier, differs from one region to another, in terms of design. Its even referred to by
various names such as Muggu, Kolam, Alpana etc across various states. Rangoli also differs in the way it
is made, namely 1) Dry and 2) Wet, referring to the materials used to create the outline and fill that
outline with colour. It is also notable that Kolam, the Rangoli in Tamilnadu lays more emphasis on the
symmetry and complexity rather than the flamboyance of the Rangolis of North India.

As exponents of Indian culture and tradition, we the volunteers of SPIC MACAY chapter of NIT
TRICHY take pride in cherishing Rangoli, one of the most popular art forms of India. It is one unique art
form which is spreading steadfast across countries and continents, propagating Indian culture and
tradition to a large extent.