South India embraces Navaratri with vibrant Bommala Koluvu traditions

Visakhapatnam: From treasuring the memories of grandmothers to inspiring younger generations, Bommala Koluvu - popularly called Golu—remains one of the most cherished festival traditions across South India.

Celebrated mainly during Navaratri and Sankranti, the practice involves arranging dolls on tiered platforms, turning homes into vibrant displays of mythology, culture and everyday life. While deeply rooted in Andhra Pradesh and Telangana, the custom is equally popular in Tamil Nadu and Karnataka.

Toys from their own states

A unique feature in each state is the choice of toys for the Koluvu.

Families in Andhra Pradesh often prefer Kondapalli dolls from Vijayawada, while in Karnataka, Channapatna toys are common. In almost every household, however, dolls from Chennai find a place on the steps for their variety and affordability.

With the tradition still thriving, new innovations are emerging.

Several manufacturers now offer multi-purpose step setups. “We received orders months in advance for Bommala Koluvu stands. After the festival, the same setup can be folded into a bookshelf by closing the inner steps. But these are made only on request and take time,” explained Kiran, a wholesale dealer from Bengaluru.

Step-wise tradition

At the heart of the Koluvu lies the worship of Goddess Bala Tripura Sundari, believed to take joy in toys and children. Families usually arrange five or nine tiers, welcoming friends and neighbours to view the elaborate display.

The first step always begins with idols of gods and goddesses. The remaining tiers narrate stories from the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and the Dasavatara, alongside scenes of daily life—temples, weddings, markets, schools, and even modern-day cityscapes. These dolls act as visual storytellers, passing cultural values down to children.

Symbolism of the steps

3 steps – Represent the Trimurti (Brahma, Vishnu, Shiva) or the goddesses Durga, Lakshmi, Saraswati.

5 steps – Symbolize the Pancha Bhootas (five elements of nature).

7 steps – Linked to the Sapta Rishis or India’s seven sacred rivers.

9 steps – Dedicated to the Navadurga, the nine forms of Goddess Durga.

11 steps – Used for elaborate displays with numerous deities and cultural scenes.

A legacy passed down

For families, Bommala Koluvu is as much about bonding as devotion.

A tradition of adding at least one new doll each year ensures the collection evolves with time. “This Dasara, we bought a marriage set, a large house, and a village theme from Kondapalli, along with devotional idols from Chennai. Visitors also gift us dolls, making them part of our tradition,” said a woman from Visakhapatnam.

This year, many parents involved their children in arranging the Koluvu, teaching them not just how to set up the steps but also the meaning behind each display—ensuring that the tradition lives on for generations to come.