Rangoli

What is the science behind these ravishing designs that grace the floors of homes and temples across India? Rangolis are a traditional art form often made of colored powdered limestone, colored rice, and flower petals. Rangolis embellish homes during Hindu festivals such as Onam, Pongal, Diwali, and loads of other festivals. But, other than that they’re a daily practice in the South of India where rangoli is known as ‘Kolam’ and temples all over India.

THE SCIENCE OF RANGOLIS

However, Rangoli serves a deeper purpose, grounded in scientific reasoning. According to historical convention powdered limestone, rice or flower petals are used for the astounding designs. The limestone in the rangoli has the ability to avert icky insects from entering the household and keeps pests at bay. An interesting thing about making rangolis is that it improves one’s posture. The postures needed to make a rangoli are an exercise for people to align their spines, since making the rangoli forces them to keep their back straight, so that they can create the perfect rangoli.

WHAT THE RANGOLIS SYMBOLISE

The rangoli represents the cheerfulness and positivity of a household, it’s patterns and vibrant colors will surely uplift one’s mood. Rangolis are also made to welcome Lakshmi, the goddess of wealth and good luck. The rangoli was connected to goddess Lakshmi by our ancestors so that everyone would follow it without fail.

 OUR ANCESTORS WERE FOR SURE THE BRAINY BUNCH

Now that we are nearing the end of this post, I just want to say that our ancestors were quite brainy and resourceful. They took natural materials around them, used them scientifically and made them into traditions followed all over India. A little bit of faith, fondness for the community, the passion for discovery and science is all it took.