The kolam (கோலம்) is much more than just an aesthetic art. It symbolises happiness and prosperity.

It is said that each morning, Lakshmi, the Goddess of Wealth, enters and blesses the houses adorned with kolam-s at the entrance. Hence, the kolam itself is called `Lakshmi Kadaksham' (லக்ஷ்மி கடாக்ஷம்) Traditionally, the padi kolam (படிக் கோலம்) of Tamil Nadu.

-"Kolam" on The Hindu dated 7-1-03 by S. Suresh