It’s that time of the year again; with Hindu families across the globe celebrating the season in good cheer on Deepavali day.

Celebrated on the 14th day of the Aipasi month of the Tamil calendar, Deepavali falls between the months of October and November every year and is celebrated not only by Hindus but adherents of the Sikh and Jain faiths as well.

The word Deepavali is the combination of two words; namely “Dipa” which means “light” and “Gavali” which means “line”.

Decorative oil lamps are an ever-recognisable feature of Deepavali, befitting its name of “The Festival of Lights”.

On the day itself, gifts and delicious sweets are distributed to family members, relatives and neighbours, fireworks are lit and religious ceremonies conducted.

Lamps are associated with the festival as they hold a place of religious significance for Hindus, representing the victory of the forces of light over the forces of darkness.

According to Hindu belief, the tyrant king, Narakasura, whose evil ways had long brought suffering to his people, was finally defeated and killed by the God, Krishna.

Before his death, the regretful Narakasura decreed that humanity should remember his defeat as a warning against giving in to the temptations of sin. It was also to be a reminder to do good and never harm another.

In addition to oil lamps, “kolams” can also be found decorating Hindu homes.

A work of art that is just as colourful as it is beautiful, a “kolam”, also known as a “rangoli”, is a decoration drawn on the floor and made from crushed and coloured rice grains.

It is often placed outside the doors of Hindu homes to usher in blessings and prosperity for the family dwelling inside.

According to “kolam” creator, Lee Mahendran, 38, the skill of “kolam” drawing has been passed down for generations in his family.

Despite the great skill and effort it takes to produce one, with sufficient dedication and time, a uniquely beautiful “kolam” can emerge, often featuring intricate motifs of plants, flowers and peacocks.

For him, creating a “kolam” is a meaningful gesture as it is not only a decorative feature.

Speaking to FMT, Mahendran said, “It is also a tradition meant to feed small creatures such as ants and birds in the hope of bringing blessings and providing sustenance for the Indian community.”

According to him, the “kolam” is also a symbol of worship to Lakshmi, the Goddess of Wealth, who it is believed, only visits and brings blessings to homes with a “kolam” displayed at the entrance.

Just the sight of a beautifully drawn and colourful “kolam” is enough to lift the spirits of guests, he said.

Now even Malay and Chinese communities display the “kolam” at the entrance of their homes and during special events as a way to add colour to their celebrations.

“In a way, it portrays the Malaysia famous for its multiracial harmony.”