


Dr. Padma Chandramouli



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India
Navaratri Golu is a cherished tradition, showcasing a captivating display of dolls and figurines that holds great significance during the Navaratri festivities in South India. Our Golu is elegantly arranged over nine steps, each narrating a unique story.
Step 1: At the pinnacle, Lord Mahaganapathi takes center stage, flanked by our family deity, Subramanya Swamy, along with the enchanting Valli and Deivanai. Their placement is nothing short of breathtaking. We invoke the divine blessings of our Guru, Maha Periva, wishing for peace and success for all. Following them, the revered musical legends—Shyama Shastri, Muthuswamy Dikshitar, and Thyagaraja—are represented in doll form, while Lord Vithoba (Vitthal) and Rukmini grace the display with their auspicious presence.
Step 2: Here, the Ashtalakshmi, a symbol of prosperity, blesses our Golu, accompanied by a melodic Carnatic music ensemble. The tale of Kanapan Nayanar, a devoted Shiva bhakta, is beautifully brought to life through the artful arrangement of dolls. This step also illustrates Lord Rama performing pooja to Lord Shiva in Rameswaram to absolve the Brahmahatya dosha, alongside the depiction of Guhan selflessly aiding Rama, Lakshmana, and Sita as they cross the river.
Step 3: Dominating this step is Dakshinamurthy, revered as the ultimate teacher or Guru, resplendently depicted alongside Adi Shankaracharya and his esteemed disciples—Padmapadacharya, Sureshwaracharya, Hastamalakacharya, and Totakacharya. A magnificent Thanjavur-style representation of Lord Shiva and Nandi adds grandeur to this step, showering blessings upon all. The captivating tale of Gajendra Moksha, where Lord Vishnu rescues the elephant Gajendra from a crocodile, symbolizing liberation from the cycle of birth and death, is artfully illustrated. Additionally, the divine union of Srinivasa Kalyanam is thoughtfully arranged alongside representations of Brahma and Mahavishnu.
Step 4: This step features the lively depiction of Chettiar and Chettichi, busily selling vegetables and provisions—a tribute to prosperity and trade. A treasured Marapachi Bommai, a wooden doll over a century old, graces this display, infusing it with rich heritage and history.
Step 5: The towering figure of Ghatotkacha reigns in this display, surrounded by an abundance of food items symbolizing plenty. Alongside him, a delightful scene of Lord Krishna surrounded by the Gopikas captures the playful and divine essence of Krishna's life, inviting joy and celebration.
Step 6: This step portrays the enchanting story of Govardhan Giridhari, where Lord Krishna lifts the Govardhan hill on his finger, shielding the villagers from the tempest unleashed by the wrathful Indra. This scene epitomizes Krishna's divine protection and care for his devotees.
Step 7: In this segment, Lord Palani Murugan is depicted atop a hill, surrounded by devotees carrying Kavadi, symbolizing their unwavering devotion and acts of penance. A representation of the sacred temple at Thiru Avinan Kudi is thoughtfully placed, enhancing the traditional essence of the display. The Mysore Dasara Golu set shines brightly, with the centerpiece being the idol of Goddess Chamundeshwari, elegantly positioned on a golden mantapa weighing approximately 750 kilograms, atop a beautifully adorned elephant.
Step 8: The Garuda Vahana Seva takes center stage here, a significant religious event in the carrier processions of Srivaru, symbolizing the eternal bond between the deity and His devotees. Garuda, the divine eagle, embodies unwavering devotion and service.
Step 9: Lastly, the cricket set and my mother’s exquisite handmade items, including the Mani-style chair and other crafts, are artfully arranged, adding a personal touch to our display and celebrating the spirit of creativity.
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