Happy Navaratri to all ….

One of the most significant festivals of India is Dussehra or Vijayadasami  ,it is a nine day celebration also referred to as “Navratri” . On this auspicious day,I just  wanted to share  my love for the best part of Navratri season “Bommakoluvu”, a significant tradition, resplendent with a collection of miniature dolls depicting Indian Mythology and culture .No koluvu is complete without Lakkapidathalu [wooden toys ] and kondapalli bommalu (toys) -a visual feast and a direct testament to the exquisite quality of Indian handicrafts….

for those interested ,you can read more on the history and origin of the festival and Golu here :

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vijayadashami

Thanks to my wonderful mom who curated all these toys for  me over the years. I used heavy cardboard boxes draped in white cloth as steps for the display(another DIY :-)). Most Golu displays have Gods and Goddesses and their entourage as an integral part of the display.

Keeping up with the tradition,I had Lord Vishnu in His magnificent ‘Dasavatar’,Lord Shiva and Goddess Parvati in their abode  ‘Kailasagiri’ another DIY with cotton,foil and cardboard to depict the snow capped Himalayas.If you look closely there’s also a collection of dolls representing a scene in Ramayana  the great epic.Also included some themed sets like the ‘ Rural life in India’,’Indian wedding-the bride,the groom and the Shehnai and band baja’,’Indian Temples’ and my most treasured wooden play kitchen set.Since it’s Halloween season ,I added a couple of pumpkins to the display for my little one.Can you spot the cutest doll in the display -yup that’s my BOY!!!

Happy Navratri and stay inspired 🙂