Street vendor at Lajpat Nagar Central Market in Delhi, India, sells colored powder for Diwali celebration. Diwali, also known as the Festival of Lights, is one of the most important Hindu holidays in India. In the northern part of the country, the powder is used to make designs called Rangoli. While occasionally made by hand, many Rangoli are created using the round metal stencils stacked next to the vendor. Originally, worshipers placed the designs at the entrances to homes to beautify them and welcome guests. Today, however, Rangoli are produced mostly during festivals. They are drawn on the interior floors of houses, as well as on sidewalks, driveways and at gates outside the house. Each is carefully placed to direct the Gods into the home to bless the worshipers.
Author’s note: This was just one of many sights seen during my stay in Delhi, courtesy of my wonderful hosts, Prakash Kutir Homestay
