Madurai, October 8
The festival of Navratri, a nine night celebration dedicated to Lakshmi, Durga, and Saraswati, with various rituals is celebrated in various ways across the country.
While people in the North of the country fast during the celebration, those in the Western part celebrate it with Garba dances and the eastern part of the country celebrate Durga Puja.
In South India, particularly in Tamil Nadu, Navratri Golu (or Bommai Golu) is an essential tradition during the festival. Households display elaborately decorated dolls and idols, showcasing mythology and culture.
In Madurai, the residence of one Ashokan stands out with an impressive display of over 4,360 Golu dolls. His collection includes deities like Rama, Vishnu, Shiva, and Parvati, as well as notable figures like former Tamil Nadu Chief Ministers MGR and Jayalalithaa.
As per Ashokan, the art of crafting bommais (dolls) has been disappearing over time and families engaged in the culture have also lessened.
Speaking to ANI, Ashokan said "We have made 4362 bommais this year. Unfortunately, this art has been decreasing and the families who are engaged in the art have also reduced. The bommais are expensive since they are crafted with hands and because of the price less people are buying it. Barely 10 families in one city make the bommais."
Further he said that he has crafted several designs of the bommai including cartoons as well.
We have made several designs of these dolls including cartoon characters like Chota Bheem also," said Ashokan.
Sushmita, a fourth year student said that they wait for the festival throughout the year.
"I like the festival of Navratri Golu. There are different types of dolls and idols that we make during the festival. I wait throughout the year for the festival to come," said Sushmita.