Intricate patterns, vibrant colors, and a centuries-old history. In the realm of Indian artistry, few forms captivate the imagination quite like rangoli, a medium that uses colored powders spread in elaborate arrangements. Sangita Bhagwan Bhutada, a local creator known for her ornate creations, is making a name for herself as a master of this traditional craft.

“The ancient art form has passed through the ages from each generation to the one that followed,” Bhutada says.

Her journey began in India in 2002. Bhutada first discovered her passion for the craft after being thrust into the role of rangoli teacher for a camp gathering of about 500 people. Since then, she’s had a myriad of triumphs in the field, including a Guinness World Records attempt with a 100-foot diameter rangoli she drew for 24 hours in 2005 and a 70-foot-diameter masterpiece in 2004 for Coca-Cola’s Limca Book of Records.

These early achievements marked the beginning of Bhutada’s illustrious career as a rangoli artist. Upon relocating to Houston in 2005, Bhutada established herself as a prominent figure in the local art scene, adopting clients in the city and other parts of the state, including Dallas and Austin. She’s since created pieces placed at various cultural institutions, including the George R. Brown Convention Center, the Houston Museum of Natural Science, and the Sugar Land Town Square.

What sets Bhutada apart, she says, is her spontaneity and intuitive approach to her craft. She relies on her instincts and the essence of the occasion to guide her creations. Each rangoli she meticulously crafts is a reflection of the present moment.

“I cannot do it ahead of time, and I cannot think anything before,” Bhutada says, adding that her color choices are often dictated by the type of event. Her rangoli designs encompass a wide range of themes: geometric forms, floral patterns, deities, and more. She also does not confine her work to one specific platform, creating pieces on water and ice on occasion.

In addition to her artistic endeavors, Bhutada is an author and publisher, with several sketchbooks on rangoli and henna to her credit. She also was recently approached to create digital rangoli art for a Toyota campaign for the 2023 Diwali season. The piece is displayed on the floor through projection mapping and animated to constantly change size and color.

“I sketched out multiple designs on paper and, after selecting one that I was happy with, I further refined it,” Bhutada says describing the process. “Next, I made multiple versions using colored designs. Once I was satisfied with the color and design, we recreated it digitally.”

Whether gracing the stages of cultural festivals or breaking global records, Bhutada's rangoli creations are a testament to the timeless beauty and enduring significance of this ancient art form.