Rangoli spread over 16,000 sq ft being created ahead of Gudi Padwa

More than 80 artists are working day and night at Gaondevi ground in Thane to create a 16,000 sq ft rangoli ahead of Gudi Padwa - the Maharashtrian New Year. This year’s theme is centred around Goddess Lakshmi.  

Ved Katti, founder of the trust talking with iamin says, “The aim behind creating such elaborate rangoli patterns it to stimulate people’s interest and preserve our ancient art. Almost 80 artists are working on it and we are trying to promote collaboration.” The entire event is organised by the Rangavalli Trust since the past 12 years. 

Months of planning
The planning starts around three months before Gudi Padwa when the team brainstorms on the concept and then finalises a design.

Artists from all over Maharashtra are involved in creating the elaborate design. Harshada Akarkar, 50, an artist from Poona, said, “I have been a part of this initiative since its inception. Since it is a collaboration of several artists, we tend to learn different things from each other Every moment is a learning process for every artist who is involved.”

Collaborative effort with international artists
International artists are also involved in this initiative. Faby Lakshmidevi, 49, who is from France, said, “I learnt the art of making a rangoli three years back at a workshop organised by the Rangavalli trust. This is the first time that I am participating in creating such a big rangoli. Sand painting is known by different names in different countries. I feel that these designs bring harmony and peace.”

For the longer version of the report, click here