“I’m Lohith Srivaishnava from Devanahalli, Bengaluru. Art has been part of my life since childhood. My father is both an artist and a purohith, and I grew up watching him and his team work on alankarams, rangoli, and sketches for various festivals and temples. Their devotion always moved me, and that’s how I found my calling. I started sketching and making rangolis when I was in 3rd standard, and since then, art and spirituality have become inseparable for me.

Over time, I learned from my father and my gurus, Sridhar Guru and Nagender Guru, who taught me not only the vedic aspects of pourahityam but also how every act of seva connects us to the divine. For me, creating rangolis, decorating idols, or performing rituals is not just work — it’s a spiritual experience where I feel closest to God.

I’m currently pursuing B.tech in Information Technology and Sciences in my 7th semester. Balancing academics with my devotion to art and seva has been challenging, but my family, friends, and teachers have always encouraged me to continue both with equal sincerity. I can speak English, Hindi, Telugu, and Kannada, which helps me travel and connect with people across India.

I’ve been fortunate to perform pujas and alankarams in many cities like New Delhi, Guwahati, Chennai, Hyderabad, Tirupati among many others. Hyderabad, in particular, feels like home. The culture, the warmth, and the devotion here remind me of Bengaluru. I visit every few months for pujas and special events.

This year, I feel blessed to be part of Koti Deepotsavam in Hyderabad — an event where one crore diyas are lit during Karthika Masam. I’ll be creating 13 unique alankarams and rangoli artworks over 13 days with my team. The energy there is beyond words — when thousands gather to pray and light lamps, you can truly feel the presence of the divine.

Life hasn’t always been easy, but I’ve learned that every challenge strengthens faith. My goal is to continue serving through art and pourahityam and, someday, to start a restaurant that brings together my love for food, creativity, and service.”