Dhaniyasree Thiyagarajan: Kolam

Project by: Dhaniyasree Thiyagarajan

Mentor: Smt. Hema Gayatri Ramanathan

"No education is a waste, no bit of knowledge redundant, no experience superfluous; they all can be intelligently made to serve our purpose in our pilgrimage to Truth."

— Swami Chinmayananda

This powerful quote of Swamiji has guided me throughout my capstone project. As an 8th-grade Bala Vihar student, I’ve learned to embrace and appreciate many of my Hindu values and traditions, especially through researching and practicing the ancient art of kolams, a tradition that dates back as early as 2000 BCE. Through this journey, I’ve come to see that even the smallest lessons, whether learning how to draw a kolam or understanding its symbolism hold great meaning. But more than just learning, I’ve also taken the opportunity to share my knowledge, creativity, and reflections with others in our CMP community.

Creating kolams has taught me how beauty, focus, and devotion can come together in a spiritual practice, reflecting the values we hold and helps guide us toward Truth.

As I began researching kolams, I was fascinated by how much meaning there is behind this everyday tradition. I learned that kolams are not just decorative patterns, but are drawn to bring prosperity, auspiciousness, and welcome Goddess Lakshmi. I studied their history and how they are passed down through generations, mostly by women. I also looked at the symbolism behind different patterns and how each one connects to nature, math, and spirituality.

To dive deeper, I connected with my relatives in Bharat, who shared their first-hand experiences and insights on kolams. Through conversations with them, I learned how kolams are not only a part of daily life but are also a bridge to our cultural heritage. They taught me techniques passed down through generations, and I even received tips on how to practice drawing them. This connection with my family allowed me to experience the tradition in a personal way, tying me back to my roots and strengthening my understanding of this beautiful art form.

Link to Final Presentation File