This R. A. Puram family had to delay their kolu. Now, the themed kolu – Shanmathas (six forms of worship) established by Sri Adi Shankara, is open to guests too.

The Srinivasans of Srinivasa Avenue in R A Puram had to delay their Navaratri kolu for personal reasons.

But they did not jet the hiccup stand in the way of continuing a tradition of themed kolus. The theme – Shanmathas
(six forms of worship) established by Sri Adi Shankara.

The family says that the planning for the stories, background models and flex printing and purchasing of bommai started weeks ahead of the fest.

They referred corresponding spiritual texts and the theme, the story board was developed.

Said Guruprasad Srinivasan, ” For more than 12 years, my mother has been preparing theme based kolus and some of themes have been Chaturthi mahimai, Kandhapuranam, Bhagavatham, Lalitha sahasranamam and Shaivam.”

This year’s kolu is themed ‘Shanmatha Sthapanacharyar’ based on Madhaviya Shankara Vijayam by Sri Vidyaranya and revolves around how Srimad Adishankara rejuvenated Sanatana Dharma and established Shanmathas or six modes of worship.

“My mother, Rohini Srinivasan explains the concepts and stories to all the guests. All the preparations are done as a team by the entire family and friends, ” said Guruprasad. “My mother believes that celebrating these occasions are excellent opportunities to carry the rich heritage and culture to next generation”

The kolu is still  on display for guests to experience till next Wednesday. But the family requests that guests call before they drop in.

Guruprasad Srinivasan / 9445623609 / 6380571171

Address : Bharathi Guru Krupa, B15, Shree Apartments, No.19, Srinivasa Avenue Road , R A Puram, Chennai 28