Kolam arose from a need to provide underprivileged children in India with a unique educational experience through a children's museum. It began as the Sharma Children's Museum (Estd.1999) in a school in Chennai. Currently it is evolving as a joint venture between the Children's Garden School Society, it's sister venture the Ellen Sharma Memorial Matriculation and Higher Secondary School,  and the Sharma Centre for Heritage Education.

Kolam draws on roots in the field of children's education through partnership with the Children's Garden School Society (Estd. 1937), and it's sister venture the Ellen Sharma Memorial Matriculation and Higher Secondary School India. With over 70 years of experience in pioneering children's education, this unique Institute evolved the play-way method for children in primary education, for the first time in South India. Specially designed teaching methods, including integrated/inclusive education, serve children from all social, economic and religious backgrounds, and include orphans, destitute children and Tibetan refugees.

Kolam also draws on the research experience of the Sharma Centre for Heritage Education (Estd.1999), which brings in scientific specialization in the fields of archaeology, anthropology and environmental scientists. Here, they bring in expertise in conveying complex topics in a simple manner to children, teachers and the community.

The Sharma Children's Museum was established in 1999 in one room at the Ellen Sharma Memorial Matriculation and Higher Secondary School, Sholinganallore, Chennai. The grand success of this little venture encouraged us to innovate and evolve and so Kolam was born.