The Tradition of Navaratri Golu in South India: A Cultural Journey Through Dolls

Navaratri Golu, a significant tradition in South India, is a decentralised celebration of dolls that marks the nine nights of Navaratri, a festival dedicated to the goddesses Durga, Lakshmi, and Saraswati. This article explores the origins, significance, and modern-day practices associated with Navaratri Golu, providing insights into its rich cultural heritage.

What is Golu?

The term Golu refers to the display of dolls and figurines that often take the shape of miniature representations of court life, divine figures, and cultural scenes. Golu has different names and meanings in various Indian languages. For example, in Tamil, it is known as Bommai Kolu or Kolu, which means 'to adorn a doll'. In Telugu, it is called Bommala Koluvu, translating to 'the Toy Court', and in Kannada, it is referred to as Bombe Habba, meaning 'the Doll Festival'.

The Historical Context

The tradition of Navaratri Golu is believed to have originated during the reign of the Vijayanagar Empire in the 14th century. It gained prominence among royal families in Tamil Nadu, such as those from Thanjavur and Pudukkottai. Golu is closely linked to the annual Hindu festival of Dasara-Vijayadasami, which marks the victory of good over evil. This festival is celebrated across India but has a special cultural significance in South India.

Rituals and Stories Behind Golu

The celebration of Navaratri Golu is deeply rooted in Hindu mythology. According to legend, the demon Mahishasura posed a threat to the celestial realm and earth. The Trinity—Lords Brahma, Vishnu, and Maheswara—along with their consorts Saraswati, Lakshmi, and Parvati—combined their energies to create Goddess Durga, who eventually defeated the demon on the tenth day, Vijaya Dasami. The tradition of Golu symbolises the triumph of good over evil, with dolls representing celestials, gods, and goddesses symbolising the divine victory.

Significance and Modern Practices

Golu is more than just a display of dolls; it is a cultural activity that fosters social interaction and promotes the aesthetic skills of women and children. The festival involves preparing sundal, a type of sweet dish, which is distributed as prasadam during visits. Golu also has a significant connection to agricultural and handicrafts professions, serving as a platform for social gatherings.

The Marapachi Bommai Tradition

A particularly important aspect of Golu is the tradition of Marapachi Bommai, which are wooden figurines of the bride and groom. These dolls are often presented to newly married couples by their parents as part of their wedding trousseau. The significance of Marapachi Bommai lies in their symbolic representation of prosperity and fertility, and they are often handed down from one generation to another. The wood used for these dolls, particularly red sandalwood, is believed to have medicinal properties, and when children play with these dolls, they absorb beneficial extracts from the wood.

Set-Up and Display

The Golu set-up typically consists of three to five steps, though this can be increased to nine or eleven steps for a greater number of dolls. The number of steps is usually an odd number, reflecting the nine days of Navaratri. Each step is adorned with cloth to represent each of the nine days, and the Marapachi Bommai always takes a central place in the display. During the festival, families invite friends and relatives, and the Golu display serves as a focal point for social gatherings and the exchange of greetings.

Temples and Festivals

Navaratri Golu is not limited to homes but is also celebrated in temples. For instance, the Adi Kumbeswara Swamy Temple in Kumbakonam, a prominent temple town in Tamil Nadu, decorates its entrance with large-sized dolls for the Navarthri festival. This practice highlights the importance of Golu in religious and cultural contexts.

Conclusion

Navaratri Golu tradition encapsulates a blend of mythological tales, cultural practices, and familial bonding. It symbolises the distinctive cultural identity of South India, reflecting its rich historical and religious heritage. As families continue to uphold this traditional practice, Navaratri Golu remains a vibrant and significant part of the festival.

Embracing the tradition of Navaratri Golu is not only a means of honouring the goddesses and celebrating the victory over evil but also an opportunity to celebrate the beauty and creativity of Indian culture. Its historical roots, cultural significance, and modern practices make Navaratri Golu a unique and celebrated tradition in South India, making it a valuable subject of study and celebration.