A Display of Dolls that Tells a Story

 

People in India celebrate Navratri, nine days of celebration of victory of good over evil at this time of the year. In some parts of India, families create displays of idols and dolls. Such a display is called a Kolu. They are arranged in rows at three or four levels. 

Navratri is also a major social event. Families invite their friends to drop in and see their kolu. The hosts as well as the visitors wear clothes reserved for celebratory occasions. A good, light, snack is offered to the visitors.  



Kolu arrangement and photo by Dr Sarojini

Children everywhere can arrange their dolls in their own version of kolu. Depending on what dolls are available, the display can be on a theme, say animals. Or the kolu can tell a story.

Srinivasan Ramani


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