“We’ve crafted it beautifully, but what can we do? It can’t be kept for long – it’s only temporary. Still, we must set our sights on creating something even better next Deepavali,” said Prakash, who has devoted 24 years to this art form.

The kolam, made using crushed rice or coloured powders, is traditionally placed at the entrance of homes and temples. It welcomes guests, invites good fortune, and wards off negative energy.

Due to foot traffic, it has to be redone daily – in South Indian tradition, usually by women.

Something so delicate is far more than festive decoration. The process, which can take several days, teaches resilience, while the kolam mirrors life itself: beautiful yet fragile, requiring patience.

Nevertheless, “we never compromise on design, colour or presentation – we always do our best”, said Prakash, the director of S4Sky Rangoli Kolam Malaysia.

This year, he and his team have again created stunning displays at The Gardens Mall, Pavilion Kuala Lumpur, Mid Valley Megamall, 1 Utama, and various corporate offices.

The biggest challenge, he said, is designing something unique each time Deepavali rolls around – a task achieved through the dedication of 10 full-time staff and over 50 part-time workers.

Kevin Tharsis, one of the company’s key members, shared that two to three days of hard work, over 60 shades of colour, and around 600kg of crushed rice are required to create a large kolam.

“Once Deepavali is over, we collect the rice, wash it and feed it to the birds, so nothing goes to waste,” he said.

His colleague, designer Maya Vinothini, added: “Today, kolam has evolved into a symbol of unity. It’s no longer just for the Indian community, but something all Malaysians can share.”

For Prakash and his team, something as fleeting as a kolam carries an enduring message true to the spirit of Deepavali: that every effort that helps us grow into better human beings is meaningful.

Learn more about S4Sky Rangoli Kolam Malaysia on Facebook and Instagram.