The Golu display is one of the most anticipated customs followed by many South Indian families during the nine days of the Navaratri festival. It is a beautiful arrangement of dolls and figurines on the steps, blending spirituality, tradition, creativity, and a sense of community. The dolls arranged on the steps are a representation of various characters from mythological epics like the Ramayana, Mahabharata, and the stories of local deities.
So, it is a storytelling tradition, not just a display of figures. Golu is therefore a dynamic way of passing down cultural stories to younger generations that brings families together in joyous celebration. In this blog, we’ll explore how to set up a Golu display for Navaratri 2025 along with its significance and how to blend traditional elements with modern creative ideas.
The Golu tradition is deeply rooted in South India, especially in Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, and Andhra Pradesh. And this tradition is part of the Navarathri festival celebrated to honour Goddess Durga. It has great spiritual significance, symbolising the victory of good over evil, celebrating the triumph of Goddess Durga over the buffalo demon Mahishasura.
The Golu display is typically set up in odd-numbered steps (such as 3, 5, or 7). The figures on a higher step are more divine. The arrangement represents the ascent of devotees to a higher level of spirituality. It is also a reminder to the people about the values of virtue and righteousness. During the nine days of Navaratri, families honour Goddess Durga while also inviting blessings for prosperity, health, and happiness.
Setting up a traditional Golu is more like a meaningful and enjoyable family activity, and, at times, Golu theme ideas for competition are conducted among families to encourage families to make the best Golu setups. Here are steps to set up a traditional Golu for Navarathri 2025 to add meaning and beauty to your celebrations.
As mentioned earlier, traditional Golu decoration is done on odd-numbered steps, i.e., 3, 5, or 7. The dolls and figures are arranged in a way that the most divine figures are set up on the highest steps to symbolise a spiritual balance. Most devotees commonly choose seven steps to represent the seven divine forms of the goddess.
The Golu steps should be set up facing east or north on the first day of Navarathri, which usually falls on the Mahalaya Amavasya (the new moon day) or Padyami (the first day of Navaratri). Although the most traditional and common material used for Golu steps is wood, other materials, such as cardboard, plywood, metal, or plastic, can also be used, depending on the design and budget.
The traditional Golu display features a variety of figurines organised by theme, including:
You may arrange the dolls or figurines according to the specific theme you have in mind. If you have any kids at home, ask them to place the first doll on the first step. This is a small tradition that symbolises the Golu will grow every year, just like the child grows.
Lighting and the backdrop used in the Golu setup can add a divine touch. Also, use proper lighting, such as oil lamps or string lights, to illuminate the display. Also, use vibrant coloured fabrics like red, gold, or yellow, which will enhance the atmosphere as a whole. Traditional cloths draped on the steps can also make the display a visual feast.
Nowadays, Golu displays for Navaratri 2025 are becoming increasingly modern and creative, featuring unique themes that add more depth and modernity to the festival. Here are some of them to inspire your Golu display this year:
You can give your Golu display more cultural depth by incorporating themes from Kerala's rich traditions, such as Kathakali and Theyyam, which highlight the art forms of storytelling through dance and drama.
Decorating Navarathri Golu dolls is not just about the visual appeal; it is also about the traditional rituals and the community bonding that happens during the festival. Now, let’s talk about how people are involved in the festival and tradition.
The morning rituals during the Navarathri days begin with poojas and slokas dedicated to the goddess or other deities represented in the Golu. The devotees light diyas, offer flowers and neivedyam (sacred food), and honour the divine in the Golu display. Devotional slokas and hymns are chanted to seek the goddess’s grace and blessings for prosperity and knowledge.
On the 9th day of Navarathri, Navami, Saraswati Puja is performed. It is the day when the books, musical instruments, and tools are placed near the Golu to receive blessings during Ayudha Puja. The rituals culminate with Vijayadashami, a symbol of victory and new beginnings.
Golu visits, or Kolu Darshan, are a big part of the festival and a common custom. Families often visit each other's houses to view the Golu setup and exchange gifts, fostering community spirit in a Thamboolam. It is accompanied by offerings of kumkum, turmeric, sweets, or betel leaves as a token of respect and blessing. Golu tours are frequently arranged in many neighbourhoods, taking groups of people to several houses to view the range of displays.
As Navaratri 2025 approaches, it's time to view the Golu tradition in a new light. Golu is still an important cultural celebration, whether you prefer new and creative ideas or traditional themes. Involve your family in preparing for and participating in the rituals to create lasting memories while celebrating the triumph of good over evil. To enhance your Golu display, look for authentic and well-made Kathakali and Theyyam dolls from MemoryTrain.
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