Logo concept

The pattern for Tantvaya’s logo forms a weave and the dots embody individuals and communities. The logo image was drawn to represent a “kolam”.  A kolam is known as a painted prayer, an act of faith—a reflection of the heart, drawn in rice by hand.

The patterns range between geometric and mathematical line drawings around a matrix of dots to free form art work and closed shapes. Kolams are thought to bring prosperity to homes- every morning before sunrise, all across Southern India women practice the ancient art of drawing kolam on the thresholds of their properties with white rice flour. Through the day, the drawings get walked on, washed out in the rain, or blown around in the wind; new ones are made the next day.

The decoration is not the main purpose of a kolam. 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 invites 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.

The implications of the kolam go far beyond the artistry- it demonstrates the importance of culture in community building.  Kolam enhances community spirit and pride as it creates joyous occasions for socialization, fosters greater harmony and contributes to the development of mutual respect and tolerance.

The two tables below (click to expand) show the role of the kolam in community building at both the individual and at the broader community level.