As we usher in the new year, it’s the perfect time to reflect on the traditions that connect us to our roots and bring a sense of warmth and community to our lives. At Stratnel, we believe in starting the year with positivity, and what better way to do so than with the beautiful art of Rangoli.
Rangoli, a form of decorative art, has been an integral part of Indian culture for centuries. Known by different names across the country — Kolam in Tamil Nadu, Rangoli in Karnataka, Alpana in Bengal, and Muggu in Andhra Pradesh — this tradition involves creating intricate patterns on the ground, usually using white and colored powders, rice flour, or flower petals.
Historically, Rangoli was more than just a decorative activity. It was believed to welcome prosperity and good fortune into a home. The practice also has deep spiritual significance, symbolizing harmony, auspicious beginnings, and the presence of positive energies. The symmetrical designs are said to bring balance and invoke the blessings of the Gods, making it an ideal art form for auspicious occasions, festivals, or even daily rituals.
In addition to its cultural and spiritual importance, Rangoli is a reflection of India’s vibrant aesthetic. The designs often incorporate geometric shapes, floral patterns, and motifs from nature, adding a burst of color to the surroundings and brightening up the environment.
At Stratnel, we wanted to infuse this age-old tradition with a modern twist, aligning it with our vision for 2025 — an inspiring year full of growth, collaboration, and new opportunities. This year, as part of our commitment to welcoming not only the new year but also our clients, partners, and visitors, we decided to observe the tradition of Rangoli right at the entrance of our office.
Our Rangoli patterns will vary daily. For the New Year, we have a “Welcome 2025” pattern as you can see in the image above. This is a simple monochrome pattern with just a lamp. The lamp was chosen to reflect the spirit of brightness, renewal and positivity that Stratnel stands for. Most of the daily patterns will have a streak of a shade of red somewhere, since red is the Stratnel logo color. Thus, by incorporating Rangoli into our office’s daily landscape, we aim to create an inviting atmosphere where creativity, growth, and collaboration can thrive.
For us, this Rangoli isn’t just about beautifying our doorstep; it’s a way to extend a heartfelt greeting to everyone who walks through our doors. The design serves as a symbolic gesture — an open invitation to a prosperous future, filled with new ventures and successful partnerships.
Rangoli resonates with Stratnel’s core values of inclusivity, respect for tradition, and the constant pursuit of excellence. By embracing this tradition, we pay homage to the rich cultural heritage of India while also showing our commitment to celebrating diversity and welcoming all who join us on our journey.
The decision to place the Rangoli at the entrance of our office is also a reminder of the importance of first impressions. Just as we carefully craft our relationships with clients and stakeholders, we wanted to ensure that the first thing they encounter at Stratnel is a warm, colorful, and meaningful greeting.
As we step into 2025, we hope this Rangoli serves as a constant reminder of the beauty of tradition, the importance of positive beginnings, and the power of creativity. It’s not just a decorative piece; it’s a symbol of the growth and positivity we aim for, the relationships we cherish, and the future we’re excited to build, together.