The Pongal pot boils over with creativity at Mandaveli Raja Street

Mandaveli, Chennai: On January 11, Mandaveli Raja Street exploded into heartwarming puffs of extravagant colours, defined by tradition and redefined by modern sensibilities. Its Residents’ Welfare Association (RWA) once again honoured its promise, conducing the much awaited annual theme-based kolam competition alongside the Pongal festival. What made this edition riveting was the greater challenge tossed to participants in the form of a rather unusual theme — “Media World” (ஊடக உலகு). The neighbourhood transformed into a vibrant hub of art and culture, with residents and guests joining hands to celebrate unity and creativity.

It was a massive community gathering.
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

The best for saved for the last: the Kolam competition ushered in the vesper shadows. Participants were challenged to depict the influence of media on society through intricate rangolis. The competition was divided into three categories: Category A for Raja Street residents, Category B for guest teams from across Chennai, and Category C for children. A total of 20 teams participated, including eight guest teams from Avadi, Madhavaram, K.K. Nagar, Ramapuram, Mylapore and Mandaveli. Six enthusiastic children’s teams also joined, with one participant from nearby R.K. Nagar, proving that the younger generation was equally eager to stamp social messaging with eye-catching art.

The engagement levels were sustained through the day.
| Photo Credit:
Special Arrangement

Intermittent rains added a twist to the proceedings, but the organisers swiftly shifted the venue to the Dwaraka Apartments’ parking lot, which soon resembled a colourful art gallery. Some participants braved the drizzle and continued on the street, adding charm and resilience to the festival atmosphere. A distinguished panel of judges — Kala Raghu, Dr. Lavanya, and Aparna Ganesh, all experts in kolam and art — evaluated the entries.

In Category A, Team Akai led by Radhika Santhosh secured first place, followed by Team Kavitha led by Sharmila and Team Thrishul led by Shameem. In Category B, guest teams shone brightly, with Team Kola Chitram led by Revathy from K.K. Nagar winning first place, Team Spark Squad led by Indra Baskaran from Madhavaram taking second, and Team Malar led by Parameshwari from Ramapuram finishing third. Cash prizes were awarded to winners in Categories A and B, while all the 21 children were declared winners and received gifts, ensuring that every young participant went home with joy.

The festival drew visitors from neighbouring RWAs and areas such as R.A. Puram, Mylapore, Greenways Road, MRC Nagar, and Mandaveli. The event was made possible by generous support from Kauvery Hospital, Aapti Gardens, NAC and the large-hearted residents of Raja Street. Kauvery Hospital set up a health stall offering free blood pressure and sugar checks, with an emergency vehicle on standby, blending health awareness with celebration.

Prize-winning kolams.

Adding to the festive flavour, an ethnic Paati Kadai at Kanthi Illam served traditional delicacies such as kozhakattai, thenga maanga pattani sundal, sakkara velli kazhangu nnai podi idly, panagam, thenga vellam pori and sukku kaapi. 

A sugarcane juice machine delighted visitors, while pongal and paanagam were distributed in eco-friendly dhonnais and cups, reinforcing sustainability.

The cultural segment was equally captivating.

The chief guest, Dr. Vasudha Rajasekhar, inaugurated the performances. Highlights included a lively Kummi Dance by women, a spirited Silambam display by 10-year-old Akhil Aaryav of Raja Street and a nostalgic Tholppavai Puppet Show by artist Muthuchandran from Kanyakumari, which transported audiences to the charm of village theatres.

Post prize distribution, residents joined in traditional games such as Tug of War and the thrilling Uri Adi, where surprise gifts hidden in pots added to the excitement. Winners walked away with sugarcane, cash prizes and even coupons for Orange Mithai from Paati Kadai.

As the evening drew to a close, the street echoed with heartfelt wishes of “Happy Pongal.” The event beautifully blended art, tradition, health and community bonding, leaving residents with cherished memories and reaffirming the spirit of unity that defines Raja Street.

(Ganga Sridhar who wrote this article for The Hindu Downtown is a long-time resident of Mandaveli Raja Street. She is a readily recognised name in sustainability circles and associated with EcoKonnectors)

Published – January 14, 2026 08:43 am IST