Sree Dharma Sastha Kolam by Narayanan Nampoothiri
Narayanan Nampoothiri (Ramesh Nampoothiri) Attoor, Shornur, Trichur District, Kerala A traditional Keralite nampoothiri, who is an exponent in creating traditional Kolam (Rangolis) using oraganic colors. He uses rice powder, turmeric power, rice husk powder, leaf powder and a mix of turmeric and lime to create the natural color variations. Each of the colors signifies the Panchaboothas, ie, the five great elements, also five physical elements, which, according to Hinduism, is the basis of all cosmic creation. · Rice powder – white – depicting Akasha – Sky – signifies simplicity, purity, cleanliness and humility · Turmeric powder – yellow – depicting prithvi – earth – signifies, Optimism · Burnt rice husk powder – black – depicting vayu – air – signifies Power and Control · Leaf powder – green – depicting jala – water – signifies growth and health · Turmeric+lime mixed – red color – depicting Agnic – Fire – signifies Passion. Mr. Nampoothiri, started practicing the art of drawing these kolams at a late age, but since then, he has never looked back. He now creates exceptional art work of deities with divine precision and presence that glorifies each time he finishes. Normally, it takes 3-4 hours to complete an art work, which requires lot of sradha (focus and concentration), patience and skill. He is currently working at the Government Press of Kerala.
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