Today I received an invitation to attend a Kollu in a friend's friend's home. A Kollu is an elaborate altar of beautiful dolls and figures of Gods and Goddesses that is showcased during the Navarathiri festival in the homes of devout Hindus. A kollu is a massive undertaking. It requires the person hosting it to observe strict fasting schedule of at least a month prior to having the Kollu in their homes. It requires the host to perform various pujas and observe various traditions which are designed to celebrate mythology, culture and community. Maintaining spiritual purity of the heart and mind are also key during this festivities. The lady who invited me to her home, Anu, a Singapore Indian was very generous to share this beautiful occasion with me. She took us to her mom's home where the Kollu was held. Her mom, an elegant and cultured woman in her late 60s radiated much joy in being able to share her Kollu with us. She had lovingly done up the Kollu with little dolls inspired by folk traditions and mythology - all done very much in the spirit of love and devotion to the Goddess. Anu's mom explained to me that she has been erecting a Kollu at her home every Navarathiri since 1971 - ie for a continuos period of 35 years. She explained to us that the beauty that we see today in the Kollu is divinely inspired. As as instrument of the Goddess Aman she opens up her house for 9 nights to anyone who wants to partake in this beautiful spiritual tradition. And in the true spirit of Guest is God which captures the essence of Hindu hospitality she offers everyone sweets, dinner and a gift of textile, flowers and sandalwood paste. I felt truly blessed to have been able to partake in this beautiful ceremony in a home that was filled with so much love for the divine. Just before we left she did a little ceremony for me - she made me sit down and smeared sandalwood paste on my arms and put kungumam (red ash) on my forehead. This is a blessing that the elders give to the younger for good fortunate and prosperity. Instantly I felt close to her and part of a beautiful ancestral practice. I was also fortunate to share it with an English friend of mine - Adele England - who is currently working in Singapore. That is the beautiful thing about being in such a multi-racial and international city like Singapore - u get to share the very best of Indian culture and tradition in Singapore with foreigners who live and work here. I am sure for Adele, just like for me, this was a very special experience - going beyond the tourist spaces and expat hangouts - to real homes and partaking in real traditions.
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