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The Folk Art of Alpona: The Journey of a Thousand-Year-Old Art Form

Picture of Himaghna Bandyopadhyay
Himaghna Bandyopadhyay
I am a student of masters of history at Presidency University, Kolkata, India. My area of interests includes early medieval, colonial and postcolonial history of India, particularly Bengal, as well as Socio-Religious interaction. I am currently involved in several societies and platforms both inside and outside Presidency University. My research interest includes looking at satire in nineteenth century Bengal.

Alpona by Nandalal Bose

“Alpona” is a traditional art form originating from Bengal, widely practiced in the eastern regions of India and Bangladesh. Rooted in the cultural and spiritual traditions of the region, Alpona refers to intricate patterns and motifs created primarily on floors or walls during auspicious occasions, festivals, and rituals. It must not be confused with Rangoli, which originates especially from Maharashtra. This art form serves both decorative and symbolic purposes, reflecting the cultural ethos of the community.

The Origin of Alpona:

The term “Alpona” is derived from the Sanskrit word alimpana, which means “to plaster” or “to coat.” The origin of Alpona can be traced back to ancient Bengal, where it emerged as a ritualistic and decorative art form deeply rooted in agrarian and spiritual traditions.

A Women applying Alpona. Another Painting by Nandalal Bose

Alpona was influenced by Bengal’s vibrant folk culture, incorporating everyday elements like fish, animals, and plants. These designs symbolized fertility, abundance, and harmony with nature. During harvest festivals, Alpona was used to express gratitude and mark seasonal transitions.

A Painting by Jamini Roy influenced from Alpona

From Sacred Rituals to Modern Art: The Historical Evolution of Alpona

Alpona Design from Shantiniketan

The floor art of Alpona given its prehistoric roots, stems from the human inclination to decorate and symbolize sanctity in their surroundings. The art form drew inspiration from the Vedic tradition of creating geometrical and symbolic patterns during rituals to represent cosmic order (mandala). In ancient Bengal, the use of rice paste (made from soaked and ground rice) symbolized purity, prosperity, and devotion which was readily available, making Alpona an essential part of rural life. Traditionally, Alpona was practiced by women, which was then passed down from one generation to another, signifying their central role in household and community rituals. With time, Alpona became intertwined with religious observances, including pujas and yajnas, where symbolic patterns were used to invite deities into households.

Students of Shantiniketan drawing an Alpona (Courtesy: Chantal Jumel Alpona Du Bengale, souvenirs photographiques de Shantiniketan)

During the Mughal period, intricate floral and geometrical designs were incorporated into Alpona, blending Persian and local artistic styles. The colonial period saw the art form adapting to urban settings. While rural communities continued traditional practices, Alpona was adopted in city celebrations, making it a cultural symbol of Bengal. In the 19th and 20th centuries, the Bengal Renaissance revitalized interest in Alpona as a cultural and nationalist emblem. Rabindranath Tagore, Nobel laureate and cultural icon, played a significant role in elevating Alpona to fine art. At Shantiniketan, Alpona was incorporated into cultural festivals and academic practices. Abanindranath Tagore is also known to make the first academic study of the Alpona.  

With urbanization and globalization, Alpona evolved into a modern art form. Renowned artists, such as Jamini Roy, Nandalal Bose, Benode Behari Mukherjee began experimenting with synthetic paints, vibrant colours, and even digital media, making it more accessible and diverse. Despite modern adaptations, rural Bengal still preserves the traditional essence of Alpona during festivals like Durga Puja, Poila Boishakh (Bengali New Year), and weddings.  

From Rice Flour to Masterpiece: How Alpona is Made

The process of creating Alpona is a meticulous and artistic practice, deeply rooted in tradition and simplicity. It primarily involves using natural

Drawing an Alpona by Sumitra Narayan, student of Gouri Bhanja (daughter of Nandalal Bose).

materials and hand-drawn designs, often passed down through generations. Below is a step-by-step explanation of how Alpona is traditionally made:

  1. Preparing the Surface: Traditionally, Alpona is drawn on mud or earthen floors. In modern settings, it can also be created on cement or tiled floors. The surface is cleaned thoroughly, symbolizing the removal of impurities to create a sacred space. For mud floors, a thin layer of cow dung mixed with water is often applied to smoothen and purify the area. For urban floors, water or a damp cloth is used for cleaning.
  2. Making the Rice Paste: The primary ingredient is rice flour. It is made by soaking uncooked rice in water, grinding it into a smooth paste, and mixing it with water to create a liquid of medium consistency. The paste should not be too thick or too runny, as it needs to flow smoothly when applied.
  3. Tools Used: Traditionally, Alpona is drawn freehand using the fingers, particularly the tips of the index or middle finger. In some cases, cotton balls are dipped in the rice paste and used as makeshift brushes. Modern artists sometimes use painting brushes for precision.
  4. Drawing the Design: The designs are often started from a central motif and expanded outward in circular or radial patterns. Common motifs include: floral patterns like lotus, leaves, and vines; geometric shapes like circles, triangles, and spirals; spiritual symbols like the feet of deities, conch shells, or sacred animals; abstract designs like swirls, dots, and free-flowing lines. The designs are created freehand, allowing for spontaneity and creativity.

    An alpona painting by Benode Behari Mukherjee

Exploring the Motifs of Alpona: Tradition and Symbolism

The lotus motif and feet of Lakshmi motif are two of the most prominent and culturally significant designs in the tradition of making Alpona. They hold deep spiritual and symbolic meaning, particularly in the context of prosperity, purity, and divine blessings. Below is a detailed description of each motif and how they are traditionally crafted:

An Example of Lotus Motif Alpona

  •       Lotus Motif: The lotus is a universal symbol of purity, beauty, and spiritual awakening in Hindu and Buddhist traditions. In Bengal, the lotus represents the unfolding of life and the triumph of beauty over adversity, as it blooms in muddy waters. It is often associated with deities, particularly Lakshmi (goddess of prosperity) and Saraswati (goddess of wisdom). The motif begins with a circular base at the centre, representing the core or heart of the lotus. This is often drawn freehand with smooth, circular strokes. Petals are added in layers radiating outward from the centre. Lines, curves, and dots are added within each petal to enhance detail and create depth. Additional elements like leaves or vines may be incorporated to complete the design. The lotus motif is often placed at the centre of a larger Alpona design or near entrances to signify welcoming purity and prosperity.
  • An Example of Feet of Lakshmi Motif

        Feet of Lakshmi Motif: The feet of Lakshmi symbolize the goddess’s arrival into a home, bringing wealth, happiness, and blessings. This motif is considered auspicious and is often drawn during religious festivals like Lakshmi Puja and Diwali, as well as on occasions like weddings. The motif starts with a pair of small, oval shapes to represent the soles of the goddess’s feet. The soles are oriented to face inward, indicating that Lakshmi is entering the space. Five smaller circles are added above each oval to represent the toes. Anklets or toe rings may be drawn as additional details, symbolizing adornment and divinity. Tiny floral or geometric patterns are drawn around the feet to enhance the motif and emphasize its sacred nature. Some designs include small footprints in a trail, indicating the goddess’s path into the home. The feet of Lakshmi are typically drawn at the entrance of a home, near a shrine, or in the centre of an Alpona during Lakshmi Puja or similar ceremonies.

Significance of Alpona in Current Times:

In contemporary times, Alpona continues to be a vital symbol of Bengal’s cultural heritage, blending tradition with modernity. It serves as a connection to ancestral roots, particularly during festivals like Durga Puja or Poila Boishakh, where it is an essential decorative element. In urban settings, Alpona has evolved beyond its traditional form; it is now created using vibrant paints, coloured powders, and even digital tools, reflecting artistic innovation. It plays a prominent role in public celebrations, community festivals, and large-scale art installations, symbolizing cultural pride and collective creativity. Beyond aesthetics, Alpona retains its spiritual essence as a symbol of auspiciousness, prosperity, and purity during weddings, housewarmings, and religious rituals. Furthermore, it is being embraced globally, with workshops and educational initiatives ensuring its preservation among younger generations, while its motifs inspire modern art, fashion, and digital designs. This adaptability ensures that Alpona remains a living tradition, cherished for its beauty and significance in the modern world.

Sources:

https://rooftopapp.com/blogs/Alpona-the-artistic-evolution-of-a-folk-art-form

https://en.banglapedia.org/index.php/Alpana

https://www.getbengal.com/details/how-did-the-folk-art-of-Alpona-come-to-bengal

https://www.tbsnews.net/features/panorama/Alpona-journey-thousand-year-old-art-form-758238

https://simplydebolina.wordpress.com/2018/07/12/Alpona-adorning-the-courtyard-of-gods/

“Alpona : a Prayer and Painting for New Year! | The Heritage Lab,” The Heritage Lab, last modified April 15, 2023, accessed January 2, 2025, https://www.theheritagelab.in/alpana-prayer-and-painting/ 

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