Arrays of colorful rangoli patterns decorated the sidewalks of the Promenade beach, widely known as the Rock beach of Puducherry, on the scorching summer morning of April 4, 2026, enrapturing tourists visiting the beach. Rangoli enthusiasts and artists gathered in large numbers to participate in the rangoli competition hosted by the Election Commission of India. The initiative aimed to promote voter awareness and encourage greater public participation ahead of the elections held on April 9, 2026.
This event drew over 500 participants across age groups and genders resulting in a colorful display of rangolis along the Promenade early in the hours of the day. Beyond artistic expression, many participants used their creations to voice aspirations for social reform, reflecting hopes for governance in the post-election period. Themes ranged from the prevention of abuse against women and children, appeals to improve access of education to women,to advocating for a greener India, as well as aligning everyday actions with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
More than a competition, a collaborative and creative spirit was fostered among viewers and participants. Participants were seen sharing ideas, offering design suggestions, and even exchanging coloured powders to enhance each other’s work. A participant shared that her intention was not only to pursue her passion for rangoli but also to promote unity among the people of Puducherry, rather than deepen divisions based on political affiliations. In a striking display of creativity, a group of participants were seen creatively exploring unconventional resources to design their rangolis with damp tissue paper and sand mixtures to create a 3 dimensional effect, turning heads of many.
The event sparked spontaneous conversations among tourists and participants, livening up the promenade, while successfully spreading the word about the importance of each voter’s contribution to the election and eventually fulfilling the aim of the initiative.
Cover photo: Rangoli with awareness messages created with sand mixture
Photos by Samyuktha Chandrashekar