Talking Points: The Ancient Art of Drawing Kolam

A collection of sources and imagery to explore the ancient tradition of drawing Kolam.

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ages 5-8
ages 9-11
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‘Every morning at sunrise all across Southern India women practice the ancient art of drawing kolam on the thresholds of their properties. A physical form of prayer and symbol of protection, a daily exercise, and a moment of intense concentration and meditation, drawing kolam is an important household ritual that has a lot more to it than may first meet the eye.


Two very different women living in Chennai explain their shared passion for kolam, and their involvement in the local kolam competition.’ – BBC

Questions to Ask Children

What do you like/dislike about kolam drawings?

Do they remind you of anything?

What are some of the rituals do you take part in every morning?

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