The Onam festival kolam, also known as Athapookalam, is a traditional art form of Kerala, India. It is a beautiful and intricate design made with fresh flowers and petals, and is created in front of homes and public places during the Onam festival. There are many reasons why the Onam festival kolam is so significant. First, it is a way to welcome the mythical King Mahabali, who is said to return to Kerala every year during Onam. The kolam is believed to please him and encourage him to stay longer.
Second, the kolam is a symbol of prosperity and abundance. The fresh flowers used in the design represent the beauty and fertility of nature, and the intricate patterns are said to bring good luck and happiness to the household. Third, the kolam is a way for people to come together and celebrate the Onam festival. It is a community event, and everyone is encouraged to participate in creating the kolam. This helps to foster a sense of community and togetherness.
Finally, the kolam is a beautiful work of art. It is a testament to the creativity and skill of the people who create it, and it adds to the festive atmosphere of Onam.
Here are some of the special flowers used in Onam kolam:
Jasmine
Marigold
Hibiscus
Rose
Lotus
Lily
Champaka
Alocasia
Water lily
Chrysanthemum
Geranium
The Onam festival kolam is a beautiful and meaningful tradition that has been celebrated for centuries. It is a way to welcome King Mahabali, celebrate prosperity, and come together as a community. If you are ever in Kerala during Onam, be sure to take a look at the kolams that are created. You will be amazed by their beauty and artistry.
Draw a large circle in the center of your chosen space.
Draw four smaller circles around the large circle, so that they are evenly spaced.
Connect the smaller circles with lines, creating a star shape.
Fill in the star shape with different colors of rice flour or rangoli powder.
You can add flowers or other decorations to your kolam, if you like.
Here are some tips for drawing an Onam kolam:
Use a white chalk or pencil to draw the outlines of your kolam before filling it in. This will help you to get the proportions right.
Use different colors of rice flour or rangoli powder to create a colorful and festive kolam.
Be creative and experiment with different designs. There are no right or wrong answers when it comes to Onam kolams.
Here are some other popular Onam kolam designs:
The lotus kolam is a popular design that symbolizes purity and prosperity.
The peacock kolam is a colorful and intricate design that represents the beauty of nature.
The snake kolam is a traditional design that is said to ward off evil spirits.
The elephant kolam is a symbol of strength and wisdom.
The fish kolam is a symbol of abundance and fertility.
No matter what design you choose, your Onam kolam is sure to add a touch of beauty and festiveness to your home.
