Introduction
Rangoli is a traditional art form that holds a special place in Indian culture, especially in Maharashtra. It is generally drawn on festive occasions at the entrance and is filled with colors. It is a display of traditional motifs and designs, which are created using the thumb and forefinger. It is believed that Rangoli is made to bring joy and prosperity into homes and to welcome gods and goddesses. In a country like India, where people follow the belief of Atithidevo Bhava (अतिथिदेवो भव), which literally means “the guest is akin to God,” Rangoli is also designed to welcome guests. One of the lesser-known forms of Rangoli native to Maharashtra is Tipkyanchi Rangoli, which is closely linked to the state’s socio-religious traditions.

A simple design of Tipkyanchi Rangoli; Pic Courtesy- Reshma Rathod
Historical Evolution
Though the exact origin of Tipkyanchi Rangoli remains unclear, it is believed that this art form dates back to ancient times. It is thought to have been an important art form during the Vedic period, where it was used for ritualistic purposes. The word Tipkyanchi is derived from the Marathi word tipkyan, meaning “dot.” This art form reached the zenith of its popularity during the 17th and 18th centuries, when the Maratha Empire promoted it as an indigenous art form, especially during festive occasions.

Connecting the dots to make Tipkyanchi Rangoli ; Pic Courtesy- Ranee
Mythological Reference
A mythological reference to Rangoli is found in the legend of Lopamudra, the wife of sage Agastya, whose mention is found in the Aranyakaparvan of the epic Mahabharata. Lopamudra was a female Rishi and a composer of a section of Rigvedic hymns. She wanted to help her husband worship the gods and contributed by making Rangoli near the Yagnakunda. Lopamudra asked the Panchatatva (the five elements of nature)—the sky, wind, water, earth, and fire—to provide her with colors. She was able to collect blue from the sky, green from water, black from soil, red from fire, and white from wind. These five elements, in the form of colors, were used to create the colors of Rangoli. These colors were then obtained from ground rice, flowers, spices, and other materials.
Techniques & Materials
Skill, precision, and patience are the most essential ingredients in designing Tipkyanchi Rangoli. The process begins with drawing small dots in an organized pattern, which forms the base of the design intended to be created. These dots are usually drawn using rice flour. Once the dots are placed, they are connected to form an outline based on the geometric patterns. The outline is then filled with vibrant colors, making the Rangoli both spiritually significant and aesthetically pleasing. Common colors include white, red, yellow, green, blue, and orange.

Depiction of Swastika amidst the geometrical designs ; Pic Courtesy- Shubh Rangoli
Characteristics of Tipkyanchi Rangoli
- Dot-Based Designs: Tipkyanchi Rangoli is unique for its dot-based designs. These dots form the basic framework for the construction of the overall design. Moreover, these dots help maintain symmetry and precision in Rangoli patterns.
- Harmony in Geometric Patterns: Tipkyanchi Rangoli features many geometric designs, often involving the repetition of various shapes such as triangles and squares. This creates visual order and harmony within the design.
- Simplicity: Unlike other forms of Rangoli, the essence of Tipkyanchi Rangoli lies in its simplicity and minimalism, which conveys a sense of tranquility on the canvas.
- Portrayal of Symbolic Elements: Tipkyanchi Rangoli incorporates a wide array of spiritually symbolic elements from nature, such as lotuses, swastikas, and other auspicious symbols. These symbols are believed to bring prosperity, good fortune, and blessings to the home.
- Use of Natural Colors: Traditionally, Tipkyanchi Rangoli was created using eco-friendly, natural colors sourced directly from nature. These colors were obtained from materials such as flower petals, leaves, lentils, rice, and more.
- Cultural and Religious Significance: Tipkyanchi Rangoli is typically drawn during festive occasions like Gudi Padwa, Ganesh Chaturthi, and Diwali. It is done to welcome positive energies and blessings into the home.
- Use of Vibrant Colors: The base of the Rangoli, created with dots, is filled with vibrant colors that represent various aspects of life, such as purity, peace, and prosperity.
- Communal Approach: Tipkyanchi Rangoli is often a community activity where families and neighbors come together, particularly during festive times. This communal involvement helps reinforce social bonds and preserves cultural heritage.
Cultural Significance
In Maharashtra, Tipkyanchi Rangoli is much more than a decorative art form; it is believed to bring positive energy into the home. It is also believed that this form of art keeps evil spirits away. The incorporation of sacred symbols, like the swastika, is thought to bring blessings and invoke divine protection for the home. Tipkyanchi Rangoli is also used as a welcoming gesture for guests. Women, especially the elder women of the house, teach younger generations the art of making Rangoli, thus preserving this cultural tradition. The act of creating a Rangoli is also seen as a spiritual activity, with the Rangoli believed to serve as a prayer to the divine forces that bless the household.

Use of artificial colours to make Tipkyanchi Rangoli ; Pic Courtesy- artistin
Modern Adaptations
Change is the only constant, and the case of Tipkyanchi Rangoli is no exception to this rule. This form of art has endured to the present day due to its evolving nature over time. Tipkyanchi Rangoli continues to be a significant part of major religious events, but the designs have become more elaborate to suit current trends, making them highly hybrid in nature. Additionally, the use of natural colors has decreased drastically, and in some cases, oil lamps are added to the Rangoli to enhance its overall presentation
Conclusion
The presentation of Maharashtrian cultural artistry in the form of Tipkyanchi Rangoli is an important aspect of the region’s cultural history. This unique art form is not only rooted in the traditions of the land, but it is also a testament to the region’s cultural heritage. Though the tradition has undergone various changes, the core aspects remain unchanged, making it a truly enduring symbol of Maharashtrian heritage and history.