The word "Pulli" is spelled using the International Phonetic Alphabet (IPA) as /pʊli/. The first sound is a short "u" sound, followed by the "l" sound, and ending with a short "i" sound. The spelling of this word can be confusing since it contains two consecutive consonants, but following the IPA transcription can help clarify the correct spelling. "Pulli" is a Finnish word meaning "dots" and is often used in textile design to refer to small decorative dots on a fabric.
Pulli is a noun that refers to a decorative arrangement or pattern of dots or small circles commonly used in traditional Indian art forms, particularly in the art of Kolam or Rangoli. These vibrant and intricate designs are often created on the ground or floors, mainly near the entrance of homes, as an auspicious and welcoming symbol. The pulli is an essential element in intricately designed kolams, which are essentially geometric patterns made with rice flour, colored powders, or natural materials.
These dots or pulli serve as the basic structure or grid upon which the Kolam design is formed. They act as guidelines for the artist who meticulously connects and extends lines from one pulli to another, creating complex and symmetrical patterns. The number of pullis and their arrangement can vary, enabling artists to experiment and create unique designs that reflect their creativity and cultural influences.
Pulli also holds cultural significance, as Kolams are believed to bring prosperity and happiness to the household. They are often created daily as a ritualistic practice by women in South Indian households before dawn. The act of creating these pulli-based designs is seen as a means of expressing devotion, creativity, and artistry. Overall, pulli is a fundamental element in the art of Kolam that not only adds aesthetic beauty but also carries cultural and religious connotations in Indian traditions.
The word "pulli" is derived from the Tamil language, which is primarily spoken in the Indian state of Tamil Nadu and parts of Sri Lanka and Singapore. In Tamil, "pulli" (புள்ளி) means "dot" or "spot". It is used to refer to the diacritic mark ( ் ) that represents a consonant pause or a halant in the Tamil script. In linguistic terms, "pulli" is often used to describe the dot-like mark applied to certain letters in Indic writing systems.