A blend of past, present & future

In the heart of Hyderabad, a timeless tradition comes to life every Dussehra, beckoning guests into the enchanting world of Bommala Koluvu. Nestled within the ancestral residence of HC lawyer L. Ravichander, a grand display of over 5,000 dolls spanning two floors is a testament to the rich cultural, historical, and social tapestry of South India. Sita Ravichander is the custodian of this magnificent tradition. The dolls, sourced from both her husband’s and her mother’s families, include treasures dating back 150 years. The Bommala Koluvu pays homage to Durga, the warrior goddess locked in an epic battle with the demon Mahishasura. The gods themselves, represented as dolls, bestow their powers upon Durga, awaiting the moment of her triumph.

The setup of the dolls is a meticulously curated narrative, with each doll arrangement telling a unique story. From Kamsa’s attempts to vanquish Krishna to Hiranyakashyap’s fall at the hands of Lord Lakshminarasimha, the display encapsulates the essence of Hindu mythology. The ten avatars of Lord Vishnu, the Astha Lakshmi dolls, and even scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, weave together a vivid tapestry of myths.  In her own words, the Bommala Koluvu  is a “display of Gods through generations.”

Nostalgia

My childhood Dasara celebrations took place in Kavali, a small town in the Nellore District. In our area, golu displays were rare. We had a unique tradition during those nine days, where performers dressed in Dasara-themed costumes visited our homes, performed short plays or dances, and received money or food in return. These visits were a source of excitement for us as children. Dasara is widely celebrated in Andhra to commemorate Goddess Durga’s victory over evil, serving as an enjoyable educational experience for youngsters. Elders read stories and played games with the children, strengthening family bonds. — Sahitya Kotimreddy, homemaker

The recent resurgence of the Telugu tradition of bommalakolluvu for Dussehra is wonderful. It’s up to us to set the example for them, but I sincerely hope the next generation is motivated to keep it going.  — Dr. Anita Mohan Atluri

Following traditions

Dasara, or Vijaya Dasami, holds great significance for all Telugu people, a nine-day worship celebrated in both Telangana and Andhra Pradesh, where we offer prayers to Madhura. Celebrations differ based on one’s location. In Telangana, it’s Batukamma, where women gather with floral items to dance around Batukamma. In parts of Andhra, Bommalakolu is the tradition, honouring Mata Durga with small Madhura idols and Bommaloo displays, reflecting rural and village life. For these ten days, my family and I follow a strictly vegetarian diet, maintain a clean house, and offer daily prayers and prasad to Amavaru. — Parvati Reddy, entrepreneur

Form of mental relaxation

I grew up in a township with relatives and friends from all across India, and every festival was celebrated with great cultural and meaningful zeal. Navratri was always a lot of fun because there were so many things going on. My mother and all her friends would have “Kollu” in our houses and were mutually invited to others as well.

I started it in 2021, three years ago during the pandemic, as I felt the need of doing something apart from the routine and challenging times we were experiencing. It was a form of mental relaxation and inner connection to the divine mother. I went to Chennai and bought dolls with the assistance of my sister and niece. I also used a lot of my personal collection of arts and crafts that I had accumulated over the years.

I find it very positive, creative and energetic, filled with serenity and joy by decorating the courtyard with dolls, flowers, having music performances, and inviting friends over for taking thamboolam (pasupu & kumkum) which is a traditional and cultural aspect of our heritage. — Suchitra Ella, MD, Bharat Biotech

Festivities galore

Bathukamma is widely celebrated in Telangana. Dasara, on the other hand, is observed in both states. On Dasara, people perform ayudha puja/jammi puja. People start new businesses and perform bhoomi pujas, among other things. There is little variety in ceremonies, however Dasara is a major event in Telangana. People in Telangana buy new clothes, jewellery, and home products, among other things. — Seetha Reddy, Board member, Tirumala Tirupathi Devasthanam

A spectrum of traditions

Dasara is celebrated by the Telugu community in various ways around the state. Some Telugu communities commemorate Bathakumma, Bommala Koluvu,  while others hold rich and elaborate animal sacrifices on Vijaya Dashami. Are Andhra Pradesh and Telangana’s rituals and traditions the same? - Explores Swati Sharma