With a vibrant career spanning 18 years, the 36-year-old from Rawang has created over 547 kolams for Deepavali alone – double or triple that if you count weddings and other celebrations!
“Kolams are all about colours, and I love colours. That’s why I never became a regular artist. I found my calling in kolams,” Sivabalan told FMT Lifestyle.
“I think it is a gift God has given me.”
Just recently, the artist and wedding planner earned a spot in the Malaysia Book of Records for creating a kolam using the most colours (100). The breathtaking 6m x 7.6m piece features two peacocks, a giant clay lamp, and several kolam patterns.
“I wanted to achieve something big in kolam art. So I planned it for many years, and this year I finally did it!” he declared proudly.
Done in conjunction with Deepavali, Sivabalan spent two nights completing the kolam, using 150kg of rejected rice.
“It was really stressful as I was doing it alone most of the time,” he shared. “It was also very tiring because I was already packed with bookings for Deepavali.”
Indeed, his calendar fills up fast during the festive season, with orders from car showrooms and malls as well as private homes.
“I start planning six months ahead. This year, I’ve already designed 60 kolams, and 40 are done and delivered. Once the season kicks off, it’s non-stop!”
Despite the demanding schedule, Sivabalan finds joy in every design. “I really love this work. Even when I sleep, I think about what colours will match for the next kolam. I feel so at peace when I work with the colours.”
His artistry also embraces sustainability: Sivabalan uses only food-safe dyes, avoiding chemicals, and once the kolams are dismantled, the rice goes to chicken farms in Rawang as feed.
Growing up as the second of three sons, Sivabalan was often encouraged to pursue his artistic interests.
“My family has always been supportive, even though I was more focused on drawing than on my studies. Even during school exams, I would draw kolam designs on my answer sheets,” he said with a laugh.
His skills are entirely self-taught, inspired partly by his father’s talent for drawing. Kolam artistry came naturally at a young age, with his first-ever piece – a colourful peacock – taking shape when he was just 10. “It was a bit imperfect, but it sparked something in me.”
Asked about his future plans, Sivabalan revealed ambitions that extend beyond Malaysia. “I’m eyeing the Guinness World Record next. I want to attempt a 1,000-colour kolam, but I’ll do it in India.”
His vision, however, isn’t just about breaking records: Sivabalan is committed to passing down the art of kolam to future generations.
“I’m planning free workshops for kids. These days, many people opt for easy pre-made designs, but I want to show them the joy of creating their own kolams, even if it’s just for their home.”
And during Deepavali, Sivabalan shared that his celebrations with family are just as vibrant as his creations.
“We paint the house every year, and I create a grand kolam in the car park, usually featuring a peacock or some 3D elements,” he revealed.
The festivities begin bright and early, with 40 relatives gathering for breakfast at 5am, followed by temple visits – bringing the same energy and tradition that define his art.
This year, Sivabalan hopes everyone embraces the spirit of hope and unity Deepavali represents. In a world full of challenges, he believes the Festival of Lights reminds us that love and light can overcome any darkness.
“I hope families and friends will gather to create their own kolam – a beautiful tradition that celebrates creativity and togetherness. May these simple, joyful moments help us reconnect, strengthen our bonds, and spread hope to those in need.”
Follow Sivabalan Arumugam on Instagram.