INTRO

I have been keeping Golu for the last 20 years in Seattle, WA (US) following footsteps of my Amma, Patti(Grandma) and Kollu Patti(Great Grandma). Fortunate to spend my first 10 years of my life with her as well.

2023 Golu Padi(Steps) represents Durga, Lakshmi and Saraswati. Center semicircular 7 steps padi in the form of Artha Meru begins with Kalasam at the top, followed by Kailasam, Vailkundam, Nava(9) Narasimhar, Ashta (8) Lakshmi, Arupadai Murgar (6 Abodes of Karthekeya) and last step is being represented by Nandi Vahana Shiva, Kamadhenu on both sides. Brass and Silver vilakku.

On either side of semi circular padi we have 5 steps each, Right side begins with Lord Ram Parivar (Ram, Lakshman, Sita and Hanumar), followed by Srinivasa Padmavathy Kalyanam(Marriage Ceremony), Kailasham set (Brahma, Maha Vishnu, Naradar, Lakshmi, Saraswati), Vahana Murty idols, Balaji and Padmavathy in the middle. Last row is all about Krishna. Birth to Leela showcased in clay, brass and paper mâché dolls.

Third part on the left, Murgan (Lord Karthekeya) is standing tall with Valli and Deivanai on either side. Colorful metal peacock on the corner making the row standout. Meenakshi Sunderaswar Kalyanam (Marriage Ceremony) on the second shelf followed by Dasavatharam, Karthikai Pengal depecting birth of 6 faced Murgan. Last row is marriage ceremony of with priest chanting and facilitating, live orchestrated musicians, and guests enjoying feasts.

Center HridiyaKamalam kolam made with traditional rice flour.