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Kolam accords colour to Thai Poosam festival in Tamil
Nadu
by
Jayakumar
Dharampuri
(Tamil Nadu): Kolam or the art of Rangoli, presented
in varied colours and traditional designs, a heritage
of Tamil Nadu, has been in vogue, especially in south
India, since time immemorial. Kolam attains prominence
during Pongal season when girls of marriageable age
meticulously prepare different Kolams in the foreyard
of their houses. The month of Margali and Thai Poosam
festival falling between December 15 and January 15
are eagerly awaited by eves. The occasion is opportunity
for the girls to showcase their artistic tastes by
covering the entire width of the road with one big
Kolam. It is sort of s test of one's mastery for one's
artistic skills, as different design is required for
each day without a repeat. Margali is considered auspicious
month. During this time, the household women and girls
wake up before dawn and pray to God Thirumal (incarnation
of Lord Vishnu). They prepare Rangolis in His welcome
and also sing Thiruppaval or the hymns in the praise
of Lord Thirumal in the morning. The practice is followed
for the rest of this month. "We prepare various Kolams
for Thai Poosam that is dedicated to Andal (Goddess).
I have tried seven colours like red, yellow, white
and green. This gives us immense thrill and satisfaction.
It is not only aesthetic but auspicious too since
Kolam welcomes the divine God. Though much time and
creativity are involved in making them, but collectively,
all of us are happy since a marriageable girl finds
her match," said Senthamarai, a local of T.Agraharam,
Dharmapuri. Kolams are generally drawn on a damp surface
so that it stays for a longer time. Traditionally,
the cow-dung is also used as the base because it has
antiseptic properties and is believed to provide a
literal threshold of protection for the home. "I am
from Agraharam Village. It involves fun, devotion
and plenty of patience in working out the Kolams.
For Theyam, I have prepared this Kolam and wish my
ambitions are fulfilled," said Mala, a resident of
T Agraharam, Dharmapuri. It is believed Kolam making
is beneficial for health for the artist who bends
down each morning since it is said to help her digestive
system, reproductive organs and to help overall stretching
of the body.
-Feb 1,
2008
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