A ‘Kolam’ portraying the national flag of Sri Lanka, drawn by a Tamil girl, won the first place at a ‘Kolam’ drawing competition held at the Sinhala and Tamil New Year festival organized by the soldiers serving 553 Brigade at Aliyawalai, Shakthiwel Ground on Wednesday (17).
Among many traditional and cultural events, ‘Kolam’ drawing competition drew much attention of folks who attended the festival, organized under the guidance of the Security Force Commander (Jaffna) Major General Mahinda Hathurusinghe. The ‘Kolam’ which won the first palace, depicting the Lion flag, was drawn with grains. A large number of villagers from the area participated in the competition.
‘Kolam’, also known as ‘Rangoli’, is a dainty floor painting, which is an integral part of Tamil tradition. It is widely practiced by female Hindu family members in front of their homes. It symbolizes beauty and provides a welcoming environment. In olden days, ‘Kolams’ were drawn in coarse rice flour, so the ants would not have to walk too far or too long for a meal. The rice powder also invited birds and other small creatures to eat it, thus welcoming other beings into one's home and everyday life: a daily tribute to harmonious co-existence. It is a sign of invitation to welcome all into the home, not the least of whom is Lakshmi, the Goddess of prosperity and wealth.
 |
