Question

The term RANGOLI is derived from 'Rang’ (colour) + ‘aavalli' (row of colours). Rangoli is an age old traditional folk art done across India. The term rangoli refers to designs made with coloured powders on the ground in front of the house. In some parts of the country, the designs are done on walls and even on ceilings. The designs vary in different parts of India but the basic methodology remains the same in all the areas. The designs are mostly geometric and symmetrical, while some natural elements like flowers, birds etc. may be included.       The rural and urban women of India have kept this art alive by passing the expertise down through the generations These are decorative designs made on floors at the time of Hindu festivals.       Traditionally, such floor decorations were done only on auspicious occasions or festivals. But today they are done on any occasions like; wedding, birthday parties, opening ceremonies etc. Different Indian states have different ways of Rangoli-painting and also have different names in their regional or local languages, For example: Maharashtra - Rangoli Tamil Nadu - Kolam Uttar Pradesh - Chowkpurna Andhra Pradesh - Mugullu       The traditional material used for rangoli is rice flour so as to offer food to the ants, the birds and the squirrels. Even coloured rice can be used for the purpose, It is pretty simple to get rice coloured with food colours readily available in the market.       Nowadays white stone powder is used for making Rangoli.       Saw dust can also be used to make Rangoli patterns; its advantages is that it floats on water; which can be utilized to create Floating Rangoli patterns.

Write a short summary of the passage given and suggest a suitable title.

Answer 1

The Traditional Art of Rangoli

Rangoli is a traditional Indian folk art derived from the words Rang (colour) and Aavalli (row of colours). It involves creating colourful designs on the ground, walls, or ceilings, especially during festivals and celebrations. This art has been passed down through generations and is known by different names in various states, such as Kolam in Tamil Nadu and Mugullu in Andhra Pradesh. Originally, rice flour was used to feed small creatures like ants and birds, but modern materials like white stone powder and sawdust are now popular. Rangoli remains an important decorative tradition in India, symbolizing joy and auspiciousness.