Sanskar Bharati rangoli is drawn free hand with thick white strokes made between the thumb and fingers, using traditional symbols like the dot, swastik, lotus and shankh. This 3 ft Diwali design takes about an hour and is best for practised hands.
Step-by-step instructions
Step 1

Draw a large lotus in the centre with thick white strokes, starting each petal with a fingertip press.
Step 2

Draw a swastik in each of the four directions around the lotus.
Step 3

Join the four swastiks with a circle of shankh (conch) and leaf motifs.
Step 4

Fill the gaps with coloured strokes, keeping the white lines thick and visible.
Tips
- Use very fine white powder. Coarse powder will not flow in a smooth line.
- Practise the basic thumb-and-finger stroke on newspaper first.
Frequently asked questions
What is Sanskar Bharati rangoli?
A free-hand Marathi rangoli style promoted by the Sanskar Bharati organisation, built from traditional auspicious symbols.