Kolam
April 12, 2008 by kabilangbuhay
She will always tell this is more than just a Southern ritual
but a commitment to her craft – an everyday perfection of sacred art.
Before the day breaks she has cleaned this doorstep
thoroughly brushed and washed with water
just as her face is cleansed by the morning dew chill.
From a canister she would grab a handful of rice talc
perfectly grinded, pounded so white as chalk .
She’d bow a little; her body’s bent, her two legs supporting her weight
just right to concentrate.
Then her hands will free the fine dust gradually
as if prayers drop noiselessly onto the waiting ground.
The rice powder falls precisely in place like following a rhythm of sound-
less beat : curves, curls, circles interlink; lines cross, crack
in elaborate crevice. And this is masterpiece: like sari’s classic sheet.
As the day unfolds while ants feast,
she looks forward for tomorrow for another exhibit.
31 January 2008
Chennai, India
Kolam – a decorative variety of sandpainting using rice powder practiced in South India
