Golu in India - A beautiful tradition for children!

Golu, also known as Bommai Golu or Kolu, is a beautiful tradition followed during Navaratri in South India, especially in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Andhra Pradesh, and parts of Kerala. It is the art of arranging dolls and figurines in steps of, usually, odd numbers like 3, 5, 7, or 9. This practice is not just about decoration but carries deep cultural and spiritual meaning.

The history of keeping Golu goes back to ancient times when storytelling was an important way of sharing knowledge. Since most people could not read or write, dolls were used to explain stories from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, Puranas, and other mythological tales. By arranging dolls in order, families passed on traditions, values, and moral lessons to the next generation.

According to a legend, when Goddess Durga fought the demon Mahishasura, the Devas gave their powers to her and stood aside. To symbolize this, dolls are placed as silent witnesses during Navaratri, while the goddess is worshipped as the central power.

Another belief is that keeping Golu represents the cycle of life and the universe, with gods, humans, animals, and nature shown in harmony.

Over time, Golu became more than just a religious display. It turned into a celebration of creativity, community, and culture. Families invite relatives, friends, and neighbors to see their Golu and exchange gifts, songs, and sweets. Children especially enjoy arranging dolls, singing bhajans, and learning stories.

Today, Golu continues to evolve, with themes ranging from mythology to social messages like saving the environment or women’s empowerment. Yet, at its heart, the tradition remains the same honoring the goddess, preserving heritage, and bringing people together in joy and devotion.