Onam, the vibrant harvest festival celebrated in Kerala, India, is a time of joy, cultural richness, and tradition. One of the most beautiful and artistic expressions of this celebration is the creation of Pookalams, which are intricate floral designs laid out on the ground.How to draw onam pookalam designs Drawing and decorating a Pookalam is not just a festive activity but also a symbol of prosperity, unity, and devotion. how to draw onam pookalam designs If you’re looking to create your own Pookalam this Onam, this guide will walk you through the process step by step.
Understanding Pookalam
A Pookalam, also known as Athapookalam, is a floral carpet traditionally made using various colorful flower petals. The design of a Pookalam is often circular, symbolizing unity and harmony, but it can also incorporate a variety of geometric patterns and symbols How to draw onam pookalam designs related to Hindu mythology. The size and complexity of the Pookalam can vary depending on the space available and the number of people involved in its creation.
Materials You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather the following materials:
- Fresh flowers in different colors (marigold, rose, hibiscus, chrysanthemum, etc.)
- Green leaves for contrast
- Chalk or a white marker
- A flat surface (courtyard, porch, or floor)
- Small bowls or containers for sorting flower petals
- Scissors or plucking tools to separate petals
Step 1: Choose Your Design
The first step in creating a Pookalam is to choose a design. You can go for a simple geometric pattern or a more complex design that incorporates symbols like lotus, elephants, or How to draw onam pookalam designs. If you’re new to Pookalam making, it’s a good idea to start with a basic circular design with concentric rings.
Step 2: Prepare the Surface
Select a flat and clean surface for your Pookalam. The floor should be swept and mopped to ensure it’s free of dust. This helps the petals adhere better and keeps the design crisp.
Step 3: Sketch the Design
Using chalk or a white marker, lightly sketch the outline of your Pookalam on the surface. If you’re making a circular Pookalam, start by drawing the innermost circle and work your way outwards. This sketch will serve as a guide for placing the petals and will help in maintaining symmetry in the design.
Step 4: Separate the Petals
Next, carefully pluck the petals from your flowers. Keep the petals of different colors in separate bowls or containers. If you’re using leaves for green accents, cut them into small pieces.
Step 5: Start Filling In the Design
Begin filling in your Pookalam from the innermost section.How to draw onam pookalam designs Place the petals close together, ensuring they cover the sketched outline completely. Use contrasting colors for adjacent sections to make the design pop. You can experiment with color combinations, but traditionally, bright colors like yellow, orange, red, and white are favored.
Step 6: Layer and Add Details
Once the basic design is in place, you can add layers for depth and complexity. For example, you can add a second row of petals on top of the first one or use smaller petals for detailed work. Adding green leaves as borders or accents can create a striking contrast against the colorful petals.
Step 7: Final Touches
After filling in the entire design, take a step back and assess the Pookalam. Adjust any sections where petals may have shifted or where the design looks uneven. You can also add small diyas (oil lamps) or rice grains for added embellishment, especially around the edges or at the center.
Step 8: Preserve Your Pookalam
To keep your Pookalam fresh throughout the day, lightly spray it with water. This will help the petals stay vibrant and in place. If possible, How to draw onam pookalam designsavoid placing the Pookalam in direct sunlight, as this can cause the flowers to wilt faster.
Conclusion
Creating a Pookalam is a joyous activity that brings together family and friends during Onam. The process is not just about laying flowers but also about celebrating the cultural heritage and values of Kerala. With a little planning and creativity, you can design a beautiful How to draw onam pookalam designs that adds to the festive spirit of Onam. Whether you choose a simple design or a more elaborate pattern, the key is to enjoy the process and take pride in your creation. Happy Onam!
