I never fail to admire and compliment the creators of beautiful and massive ‘Kolams' that are systematically drawn at the entrance of houses with great fervour, particularly during the season of Margazhi.
I always wondered about the art form that women do religiously every morning, often appearing more like a penance. But my curiosity always remained intact and so when one of my neighbours asked whether I could help her with the kolam drawing one fine morning, I could not say ‘no'.
Fun filled
For, the idea sounded simple and filled with fun, equally. Or at least I thought so and readily agreed to help her. Before the crack of dawn, I was at her house – quite unbelievable by my standards – sharp at four. First, I helped her sweep the entrance and then sprinkled water that was mixed with cow dung.
Initially, I watched my friend and her sister with awe as they started drawing the kolam with dried rice flour.
In a controlled way, they released the rice powder through the forefinger and thumb and deftly started making a design. They told me they would draw a kolam with 61 - 1 dots, thereby the dots would keep descending on both sides until one dot is positioned on either side.
Intuitive
As I watched them arrange the dots in a row and then snaking the curves around the dots in a specific pattern, she told me: “When one learns this art, the highest mathematical ability is involved as one has to conjure the kolam's geometry in the mind and simultaneously depict it on the ground. The design has to be in exact proportion to the space available. This helps develop a sharp mind, and improves reasoning and intuitive skills. The appropriate time for this would be dawn as it is reckoned to be auspicious as well as the best time due to the presence of fresh air that relaxes the mind and energizes the body. This leads to kneading of one's body parts focusing on their digestive and reproductive organs. Also it strengthens the joints and spine thus exerting the whole body and ensuring one's fitness unconsciously. One frequently bends, rises, twists the arms and legs while drawing kolam with intricate patterns.”
After watching them for a while, I could no longer hold myself from joining in. But soon I started to writhe in pain in the neck and leg since I constantly bent and craned my neck to do and observe the pattern emerge.
As soon as the pattern was finished, I took charge of outlining the entire pattern with ‘Kaavi' or in other words red brick powder to give the contrast effect and make it even brighter. By the time the kolam was completed, I realized it was already two hours. Next, I rolled up a small ball of cow dung and placed a bright yellow coloured pumpkin flower amidst the kolam to complete the look and ensure a visual feast.
I never thought drawing kolam could also be included as a workout till I was actually at it. And now, definitely, my heart is heisted with this art that also gave me a sweat!
