A Kolam and a Rangoli
Every month we will see
one colorful Rangoli and a line pattern Kolam in our newsletter!
The art of Kolam is known
throughout India by different names - Sanjhi in Uttar Pradesh, Alpana in
Bengal, Mandana in Rajasthan, Chaukpurna in Madhya Pradesh, Rangoli in
Maharashtra and Karnataka, Muggulu in Andhra Pradesh and Puvidal in Kerala.
The Kolam symbolizes
happiness and prosperity. Insects and birds feed on the rice flour used for
drawing the traditional Kolam at the entrance of houses. The geometric pattern
of the Kolam and the bright red border or kaavi enclosing it are also believed
to prevent evil and undesirable elements from entering the houses. Since one
has to bend down to make the pattern, it brings about an improvement in the
digestive system and reproductive organs and also serves as an overall
stretching exercise for the body in the morning.
Submit feedback to newsletter@mahaganapati.org with subject line as <Kolam & Rangoli> Disclaimer: Views of readers/column writers are that
of their own and not of the Temple