Vijayalakshimi Mohan learnt the art form of Rangoli from her mother, as is the tradition to pass this art form down from generation to generation. It is a widespread type of floor art in India which is thought to ward off evil spirits from homes and welcome guests. She would excitedly follow her mother to their front yard at 05:30 every morning. She would also wander around the neighbourhood, admiring the designs made especially during festivals and then come home to practice and improve them. Nowadays, she makes and teaches Rangoli not only to safeguard the Indian culture in Singapore but also as a therapeutic and social practice. According to Vijaya, the sensory stimulus to one’s fingers, the brain stimulus from the colours and the excitement from the shapes and the movements in performing Rangoli have healing and therapeutic properties.
Vijayalakshmi Mohan