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Over 80 artists are working day and night at Gaondevi ground in Thane to create a 16,000 sq ft rangoli ahead of Gudi Padwa - the Maharashtrian New Year. This year’s theme is centred around Goddess Lakshmi. 

The entire initiative is being organised by the Rangavalli Trust since the past 12 years. Ved Katti, founder of the trust says, “The aim behind creating such elaborate rangoli patterns it to stimulate people’s interest and preserve our ancient art. Around 80 artists are working on it and we are trying to promote collaboration.”

Months of planning
The planning starts around three months before Gudi Padwa when the team brainstorms on the concept and then finalises a design.

Artists from all over Maharashtra are involved in creating the elaborate design. Harshada Akarkar, 50, an artist from Poona, said, “I have been a part of this initiative since its inception. Since it is a collaboration of several artists, we tend to learn different things from each one of them. Every moment is a learning process for each artist who is involved.”

Collaborative effort with international artists
International artists are also involved in this initiative. Faby Lakshmidevi, 49, who is from France, said, “I learnt the art of making a rangoli three years back at a workshop organised by the Rangavalli trust. This is the first time that I am participating in creating such a big rangoli. Sand painting is known by different names in different countries. I feel that these designs bring harmony and peace.”

Kharghar residents to celebrate Gudi Padwa in a grand way

NAVI MUMBAI: The Kharghar Marathi Forum will celebrate Gudi Padwa in a grand and traditional manner at Kharghar on Saturday from 6.45am onwards.

Forum members said that a colourful Shobha Yatra procession will be taken out from Hyde Park in sector 35-G to Tawa Hotel circle and Charoba Mandir.

"At the Shobha Yatra, the traditional musical instruments like Dhol and Tasha will be used to usher in the Marathi New Year, which is the first day of Chaitra month of Hindu calendar. We are inviting people to join in in traditional attire at this Gudi Padwa procession,’’ said Jayant Sheth of the Forum.

The drums at the procession will be performed by the award winning dhol pathak, `Nad-Sphurti’ group. For details contact on 9833284337 and 7798833777.

Mumbai Mar.19  A woman buy instant nano Gudi to celebrate Hindu New Year " Gudi Padwa " at Bora Bazar market in Mumbai.