RangoliOnam pookalam designs
A pookalam is a carpet of flower petals laid at the entrance during Onam, the harvest festival of Kerala. The designs are usually round, with rings and stars in strong flower colours.
The tradition
The pookalam is made on each of the ten days of Onam, from Atham to Thiruvonam. In many homes it starts small and grows with a new ring of flowers each day, and the largest carpet is laid on Thiruvonam.
Flowers for each colour
| Colour | Flowers and leaves |
|---|---|
| Yellow and orange | Marigold, yellow chrysanthemum |
| White | Thumba (the traditional Onam flower), jasmine, white chrysanthemum |
| Red | Ixora (chethi), red hibiscus, red rose petals |
| Pink and purple | Globe amaranth (vadamalli), pink rose, oleander |
| Green | Finely cut leaves |
How to lay a pookalam
- Pluck the petals and keep each colour in its own bowl. Cut large petals small so that edges stay sharp.
- Draw the whole design on the floor with chalk.
- Start at the centre and work outward, one colour at a time, pressing the petals down lightly.
- Fill pointed shapes such as stars before the rings around them.
- Sprinkle a little water over the finished carpet to keep it fresh, and keep it out of wind and direct sun.
Questions people ask
How many days is a pookalam made?
On all ten days of Onam, from Atham to Thiruvonam. Many families add a ring each day so the carpet grows.
Can I use rangoli powder with the flowers?
A traditional pookalam uses only flowers and leaves. For school or office events, people sometimes outline in powder and fill with petals. Follow the rules if it is a competition.
How do I keep the flowers fresh?
Lay the carpet in the shade, pluck the petals just before use, and sprinkle water lightly once or twice during the day.
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