#468 - Kolam Kanna
by Vibha Batra and illustrated by Jemma Jose
“Kolam Kanna” by Vibha Batra and illustrated by Jemma Jose. Published by Penguin. A heartwarming story of a little boy who has to get past many hurdles to get a chance to showcase his creative skills.
The protagonist who gives the book its name “Kolam Kanna” is nine year old Bharathi. He is a proper Kolam artist and not some scribbler or doodler. Kolam is an art form in which designs are generally made with rice flour and coloured powder on floors. It is an integral part of culture, tradition and heritage of Tamil Nadu where Bharathi lives. He could expertly capture various creatures and bring them to life in his kolams. He made such intricate designs in his kolams every day, The front entrance of flat 2B in Pravin Paradiso apartments where his mother worked as a help served as his art gallery. His friends Tabassum and Alagiri who lived in the apartment were always awed by his creations and keep encouraging him.
An exciting Kolam Kondattam contest is announced for the residents as part of the Navaratri celebrations at the apartment. Bharathi just can’t wait to participate and showcase his skills. Though he is not sure that he can participate given that he isn’t a resident, his friends push him to register his name. The members of the residents welfare association cannot figure out who Bharathi is when they see his name on the list of participants. They are baffled to know that it is a boy of all people and not a resident technically. They do not want him to be part of the contest as kolam is normally for girls. Is it going to be the end of Bharathi’s dream? Will he be able to get around the rules and bullies who do not want him to participate? Can he try and win the second prize of a dinner at a five star hotel to take his parents? Read the book to know what Bharathi is going to do and what happens at the Kolam Kondattam contest.
The book touches upon sensitive topics in such a deft and beautiful way. The character of Bharathi is sure to charm his way into one’s heart and we were no exception to this. His earnestness, passion, creativity and perseverance are admirable. My nine year old was cheering for him throughout the story and wished that his dream of winning the second prize would come true. We loved the message in the book that it isn’t wrong to dream big. One needs to try to achieve it by doing everything that is possible and leave the rest to the universe. If it doesn’t work, get up and try again like Bharathi’s amma says. The themes of bullying, gender stereotypes, social inclusion, prejudices and friendship have been deftly woven into this story which in itself is an intricate Kolam celebrating the creativity and talent of those who make it. The fact that no hobby or work is tied to a gender shines through the characters of Bharathi and Tabassum who loves to play cricket. The regional culture and flavours of Tamilnadu being integrated in the story is another highlight of the book. The accompanying illustrations brought the characters and the setting alive in front of our eyes. The story kept us hooked till the end as to what would happen next. I loved the creative way in which the author has penned her acknowledgements at the end.
Recommended Age
The book is apt for children aged 8 and above.
Disclaimer - We received this book from the publisher, Penguin India, for review. Thank you to Mansi, from Penguin, for sending across the book!