Alpana is a ritualistic drawing made on the floor during a festive or religious occasion. This custom is practiced by the women of West Bengal.
These drawings are related to ancient magic cults. Symbolic diagrams are either drawn with rice paste or simply scratched on the ground. They are used to invoke gods in a ritualistic ceremony.
In the modern times, these drawings are even used for decorative purpose. They now depict many natural elements along with ornamental designs.
