Maharashtrian Rangolis

by Prachi Kulkarni

First Online: December 16,2004
Page Last Updated: January 27,2008

Prachi Kulkarni

Colorful Floral Designs in Rangoli Art

Maharashtrians (people of state of Maharashtra) are very fond of Rangoli designs and the art form is practiced by women in both rural and urban areas alike. Here are two designs from my collection. The first design was drawn on the occasion of Diwali festival. The second one was drawn on the occasion of 'Godbharai'. It is customary to draw Balkrishna (baby Krishna) on 'Godbharai' and 'Namkaran' (baby shower and naming ceremonies).

Prachi Kulkarni

A Diwali Rangoli

Prachi Kulkarni

Rangoli of Baby Krishna

Chaitrangan is the name of the traditional rangoli which is drawn during Chaitra month - First month of Hindu calendar (usually end of March and starting of April) from Chaitra shudhdha tritiya to Akshay tritiya. It contains all the Shubhchinha (sacred signs) discussed often  in Maharashtrian culture.Other varieties include Sanskarbharati, foodgrain rangoli, and threshold rangolis.

Prachi Kulkarni

Pangat Rangoli of Maharashtra

See Also:

• Here Today, Gone Tomorrow - The Living Arts
• Rangoli -- Painted prayers of India