Navratri Golu Festival in Madurai
Ashokan’s Impressive Display of 4,360 Dolls
In Madurai, Tamil Nadu, the Navratri festival is celebrated with a unique tradition called Golu. This involves displaying beautifully decorated dolls and idols that represent mythology and culture. One resident, Ashokan, has created an impressive display of over 4,360 Golu dolls, featuring deities like Rama, Vishnu, Shiva, and Parvati, as well as famous figures such as former Tamil Nadu Chief Ministers MGR and Jayalalithaa.
Ashokan expressed concern about the declining art of crafting bommais (dolls), noting that fewer families are involved in this tradition due to the high cost of handmade dolls. He mentioned that only about ten families in a city continue this craft. Despite the challenges, Ashokan has crafted various designs, including popular cartoon characters like Chota Bheem.
Sushmita, a fourth-year student, shared her excitement for the festival, stating that she eagerly waits for Navratri Golu each year to see the different types of dolls and idols.
Doubts Revealed
Navratri -: Navratri is a Hindu festival celebrated over nine nights, dedicated to the worship of the goddess Durga. It is a time of dance, music, and fasting, and is celebrated with great enthusiasm in many parts of India.
Golu -: Golu is a tradition during Navratri, especially in South India, where people display dolls and idols on steps. These displays often tell stories from Hindu mythology and are a way to celebrate the festival.
Madurai -: Madurai is a city in the southern Indian state of Tamil Nadu. It is known for its rich cultural heritage and the famous Meenakshi Amman Temple.
Ashokan -: Ashokan is a person mentioned in the summary who has a large collection of dolls for the Golu festival. He is noted for having over 4,360 dolls in his display.
Bommai crafting -: Bommai crafting refers to the art of making traditional dolls used in Golu displays. This craft is facing challenges due to high costs and fewer people continuing the tradition.
Sushmita -: Sushmita is a student mentioned in the summary who is excited about the Navratri festival and the Golu tradition. She represents the younger generation’s interest in cultural celebrations.
