Alpana Making

Hi All. As I have mentioned before, creativity is limitless. Its can find its expression anywhere. So, let me tell you about this traditional art which is practiced in Eastern India especially Bihar and Bengal. It is called ALPANA Making. It is generally made on Diwali eve, on the floor near the main entrance, symbolizing the welcoming of Goddess Lakshmi.

The medium used to make the motifs is diluted rice paste. Rice is soaked in water for a few hours and then grinded. Even the method of applying it is different. A twig of medium thickness is selected and a cotton cloth is wrapped around it at one end. This twig is then dipped in the diluted rice paste and then the motifs are made. The design can either be made freehand from the paste or are drawn from before using a white chalk and then the rice paste is used with the help of the twig. The purpose of the twig being wrapped in cotton cloth is that it absorbs the excess water in the rice paste as well as gives even tone to the design.

The beauty of the alpana lies in its stark white coloured designs. You can see for yourself in the two designs which are shown above. These were made by mom and my sister at our home.