Bommala Koluvu: A Grand Display of Tradition, History, and Storytelling
In the heart of Hyderabad, a timeless tradition comes to life every Dussehra, beckoning guests to enter the enchanting world of "Bommala Koluvu." Nestled within the ancestral home of the illustrious high court lawyer, L. Ravichander, this grand spectacle of over 5,000 dolls spanning two floors is a testament to the rich cultural, historical, and social tapestry of South India.
In a conversation with Mrs. Ravichander, the custodian of this magnificent tradition, we uncovered the profound significance of the display. The dolls, sourced from both her husband's and her mother's family, include treasures dating back 150 years, lovingly refurbished to preserve their splendour.
At its core, the Bommala Koluvu pays homage to Durga, the warrior goddess locked in an epic battle with the demon Mahishasura. During this period, the gods themselves, represented as dolls, bestow their powers upon Durga, awaiting the moment of her triumphant victory.
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 South Indian mythology. The ten avatars of Lord Vishnu, the Astha Lakshmi dolls, and even scenes from the Ramayana and Mahabharata, such as the vastraharan of Sita, weave together a vivid tapestry of mythological storytelling.
Beyond the dolls, the display is a time machine, transporting guests through the annals of history. The antique brass boiler and a captivating collection of telephones, from early rotary dial sets to those used merely two decades ago, capture the evolution of everyday life.
Venturing to the top floor reveals a dedication to modern themes, featuring the Chandrayaan-3 launch. In the hallway, older metallic sculptures of deities share space with antique pots, utensils, and even an army water cooler, presenting a nostalgic glimpse into bygone days.
However, the true pièce de résistance on the second floor is an array of Ganesha dolls takes centre stage. These representations, crafted from materials ranging from brass to ceramic, depict Ganesha in various contemporary roles, from lawyer to doctor, and even as an aficionado of chess.
What makes this tradition even more remarkable is its embodiment of oral history and storytelling, woven into the ethos of the region. It's not just a celebration of Dussehra but a living, breathing testimony to South India's heritage. Mrs. Ravichander takes immense pride in preserving and passing on this legacy, knowing that her son and daughter-in-law are eager to carry it into the future.
In her own words, it is a "display of Gods through generations," an apt description for an enduring tradition that bridges the past, present, and future. With every story she shares and every step she takes to guide her guests through the display, she ensures that this unique blend of cultural and historical elements remains etched in the hearts of all who bear witness to Bommala Koluvu.
