A COLOURFUL Deepavali decoration with a modern twist has earned Mydin Mohamed Holdings Bhd a place in the Malaysia Book of Records (MBOR) for the largest rotating kolam in the country.
The recognition was presented during a ceremony at Mydin USJ in Subang Jaya, Selangor, marking a milestone in the retailer’s efforts to bring a new dimension to the traditional Indian art form.
Measuring 6.1m by 6.1m, the rotating kolam features a circular platform decorated with bright colours, intricate geometric patterns and elements inspired by traditional Indian designs.
Unlike conventional kolam designs created on the ground using coloured rice or flour, Mydin’s creation incorporates a rotating mechanism that allows the artwork to move.
The movement adds a dynamic visual element to the decoration while retaining the distinctive patterns and colours associated with the traditional art form.
Mydin executive director Ahimmat Mydin attended the ceremony alongside MBOR officer Megat Faris Hussein Megat Muzaffar Shah, who presented the certificate.
The rotating kolam was first introduced on Oct 8 at Mydin Seremban 2 in conjunction with the launch of the retailer’s “A Brighter Deepavali” campaign, before being moved to the USJ outlet for public display.
The initiative was developed to give the traditional art form a contemporary interpretation while maintaining its cultural identity.
Kolam is an important part of Deepavali celebrations, with decorative patterns commonly displayed at entrances to homes, temples and business premises.
Traditionally associated with prosperity, good fortune and welcoming visitors, the art form is recognised for its elaborate arrangements of colours and symmetrical designs.
According to the retailer, Mydin’s kolam project is aimed at encouraging greater appreciation of traditional Indian art, particularly among younger generations, by presenting familiar cultural designs in a different format.
The combination of traditional patterns and modern construction also reflected how established cultural practices could be adapted for public displays and festive celebrations, it said.
The record recognition, the retailer said, formed part of its wider Deepavali campaign which included community initiatives under its “Mydin Prihatin” programme.
The retailer hoped the rotating kolam would encourage Malaysians of all backgrounds to learn more about Indian cultural traditions and appreciate the country’s multicultural heritage.
Established in 1957, Mydin operates 86 outlets nationwide across seven retail formats.
